Many individuals are opting for teeth whitening for cleaner, whiter teeth. Brightening that smile can improve one’s confidence and establish a feeling of youth. But, the process of teeth whitening does have its pros and cons, and now more than ever, people are searching for alternative methods.
Laser and Ultraviolet Light Teeth Whitening
Many believe that getting a teeth whitening process done at the dentist's office is the ultimate way of achieving whiter teeth. But, studies show that other methods may not differ that much in comparison to the laser or ultraviolet light with the in-office method. In fact, there may be absolutely no benefit to using the additional ultraviolet light treatment.
A study from the “Journal of Prosthodontics” indicates that treatment methods that are light or non-light activated do not show much of a difference with the degree of whitening and bleaching results. The study also explained how the UV-light treatment exposed patients to as much as four times the levels of radiation as sunbathing. The repeat exposure to the UV-light can cause cataracts and burn gums. Of course, sensitivity is also the number one side effect from the application of the strong chemicals and light. An in-office teeth whitening treatment can cost anywhere from $600 to $1,000 per visit.
Least Expensive Whitening Option
The least expensive whitening option is the use of at home whitening products and agents such as whitening toothpaste, whitening chewing gum, special toothbrushes, salt and baking soda. These at home methods can usually whiten the teeth up to one or two shades lighter. For tougher teeth stains and more intense whitening, another method should be selected. The whitening toothpastes usually range from about $3 to $15.
Whitening Pens
Whitening pens are convenient and easy to use. The downfall of these items is that because it is gel peroxide that is applied quickly to the teeth, it is difficult to apply the gel evenly on each tooth. If the ingredient can be applied evenly, they can be just as effective as other teeth whitening products. These pens are cheap and normally cost about $15 to $20.
Home-Whitening Trays and Kits vs Dental Take-Home Kits
Studies show that home-whitening kits may be just as effective as light-activated teeth whitening and definitely for a lower cost. These professional bleaching kits may be purchased from the dental office. They usually cost about $300 to $700. There are whitening kits available from the store, but most of these are not as effective as the kits from the dental office. The reason for this is that the dental office kit normally contains about 10 percent of peroxide, while the store-bought kits usually contain about 4 to 6 percent of peroxide. The whitening kits from the store will probably be just as effective, but will take longer to achieve the same degree of whitening. These often costs about $20 to $50.
Bonding
Bonding uses resin (white plastic paste) instead of porcelain (porcelain is used for veneers). When teeth are repaired with bonding, the color changes as well and becomes whiter. This type of treatment usually costs about $300 to $500 per tooth.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are shell-like caps that are placed over the teeth like coverings. Veneers can be applied for teeth whitening, but are costly at normally $700 to $1,200 per veneer.
