Teeth Whitening at Home vs. in the Clinic: Which to Choose?

Teeth whitening can be done both at home and professionally in a dental office. This aesthetic dental treatment can brighten your smile by up to 8 shades. But which option should you choose? Is home teeth whitening safe? In this article, we answer the most common questions on the subject.

What Causes Tooth Discoloration?

The natural color of teeth is determined by the enamel and the materials found in the tooth structure. It's important to remember that even healthy, clean teeth are not necessarily perfectly white. Teeth color is significantly influenced by genetic factors. Besides genetics, lifestyle factors also impact teeth color. We've compiled a list of habits that can lead to discoloration:

• Tea consumption

• Regular coffee drinking

• Use of tobacco products (cigarettes, e-cigarettes, vaporizers, cigars)

• Consumption of colored foods and beverages

• Inadequate, irregular oral hygiene habits

• Lack of tartar removal

The last point is crucial not only for maintaining a bright smile but also for significantly reducing the risk of periodontal disease, which can lead to tooth loss.

Why Opt for Teeth Whitening?

According to Grand View Research, the global market value for teeth whitening in 2021 was $6.9 billion and is expected to grow by an additional 5% by 2030. But why are more people opting for a whiter smile? Teeth whitening offers numerous benefits:

• The procedure removes tartar, which reduces the risk of periodontal disease.

• A smile up to 8 shades whiter can boost many people's confidence.

• Professional teeth whitening is a safe and painless procedure.

• Teeth whitening is cost-effective and has long-lasting effects.

Can Teeth Whitening Be Done at Home?

Teeth whitening can be performed both at home and in a dental clinic. It's important that instead of unreliable home remedies read from various sources, you choose home whitening methods recommended by dental professionals. Home teeth whitening under medical supervision usually starts with taking an impression of the teeth. A dental technician then makes a tray based on this impression. Significant improvements can be achieved with evening use, following medical instructions.

Advantages of Home Teeth Whitening:

• Cost-effectiveness

• Gentle procedure

• Reduced sensitivity

• Speed and convenience

Immediate Home Teeth Whitening? Avoid These Methods!

As mentioned in various online forums, blogs, YouTube videos, and other platforms, many home whitening tips promise quick and impressive results. Is immediate home whitening possible? We do not recommend starting teeth whitening without dental supervision. Here are three home practices to avoid.

Baking Soda Whitening

Whitening teeth with baking soda is a popular recommendation, usually suggesting brushing with baking soda to remove plaque. While vigorous scrubbing can remove some of the plaque, it can damage the enamel. Therefore, we do not recommend this method.

Lemon Whitening

Frequently advised home whitening uses lemon. The method involves using citric acid to remove plaque. Unfortunately, citric acid in low concentrations is not capable of removing deposited stains, and stronger acids can damage tooth enamel. Thus, we do not advise using this method.

Vinegar Whitening

Like the lemon method, vinegar whitening attempts to utilize the acid to remove plaque. Just like with lemon, low concentrations of acetic acid are not suitable for whitening, while improperly used high-concentration acids can be harmful.

In summary, safe and effective home teeth whitening can only be achieved using methods recommended by a dentist.

Benefits of Professional Teeth Whitening

If you are looking for a truly effective and safe whitening solution, it is advisable to turn to a professional. Professional teeth whitening is cost-effective, successful, and quick. Here are the main benefits.

1. Superior Results Professional whitening can dramatically lighten the color of teeth, offering up to 8 shades brighter results. If you want a dazzling white smile, leave it to the professionals!

2. Safe Procedure Home whitening can be risky if not done perfectly according to medical instructions. In contrast, professional whitening under constant medical supervision ensures safety.

3. Lasting Whiteness Professional whitening can lead to a persistently bright smile. By avoiding the lifestyle factors mentioned at the beginning of this article that cause discoloration, your smile can remain radiant for a long time.

4. Dental Examination Professional whitening is always preceded by a thorough examination, during which the dentist can detect cavities, broken teeth, or decay. Most oral diseases are quicker and less expensive to treat when detected early.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Does Teeth Whitening Cost?

The benefits considered, many wonder about the cost of teeth whitening. Prices vary significantly. At the time of publishing, clinic-based whitening costs 49,900 HUF / 2 arches. Check our current prices!

Is Home Teeth Whitening Safe?

Yes, home teeth whitening is safe if you choose a solution recommended by a dentist and follow the health professional's advice precisely.

Why Is Baking Soda Whitening Dangerous?

Baking soda whitening can damage the enamel due to intense and frequent scrubbing.

What is Hydrogen Peroxide Whitening?

Hydrogen peroxide whitening uses a mildly acidic inorganic compound to change the color of the teeth. It is one of the most common solutions for teeth whitening.

What Can I Eat and Drink After Teeth Whitening?

Following clinic-based whitening, you may experience temporary increased sensitivity. During this time, it is advisable to avoid hard foods. To maintain your white smile, avoid coffee, red wine, and tea, as these can quickly discolor your teeth.

Can Teeth Whitening Be Achieved With Toothpaste?

Significant whitening cannot be achieved with toothpaste alone.

Fehérvári Dental: Professional Teeth Whitening in Budapest

Since our establishment in 1997, we have been dedicated to providing your family with the highest level of comprehensive dental care, from toddlers to great-grandparents. Our specialists cover all areas of dentistry, enabling us to handle complex treatments that require multiple dental specialists. Our team's professional and coordinated operation is evident throughout the entire care process, from clinical consultations to administrative tasks.

Our clinic boasts high standards in design and equipment. Our three-level clinic features three modern treatment rooms and an imaging facility equipped with panoramic and intraoral X-rays, teleradiography, and CBCT. A spacious elevator connects the floors, accommodating those with mobility restrictions and families with strollers.

Book your appointment now!