Teeth Whitening Products Comparison Guide
Choose the right product & smile with confidence!

Tray Teeth Whitening Products:

*Cost and Results:

Possible Side Effects:

While this procedure can be very effective, it may also be time consuming but the result is well worth the effort!

The process itself is easy, however depending on the product you choose you may have to wear the gel filled trays for long periods of time, twice a day for as long as 4 weeks.

Of course all of this depends on the condition of your teeth, the product you choose, and your desired result.

Low to moderate cost.

Good to excellent results.

Temporary tooth sensitivity to hydrogen or carbamide peroxide and irritation of the gums from an improper tray fitting. Those with high gagging reflex conditions may want to choose a different method.

Teeth Whitening Strips:

*Cost and Results:

Possible Side Effects:

White strips combine convenience with effective results. They easy to use, almost invisible so you can wear them without the hassle of trays or gels. Fast working and depending on the color of your teeth, you may see results in as little as 7 to 14 days.

Low to moderate cost.

Good to excellent results.

Very minimal but may include temporary tooth sensitivity which is easily remedied by cutting the application down to once a day or stopping treatments.

Whitening Toothpastes & Gels:

*Cost and Results:

Possible Side Effects:

These products can improve the appearance of teeth over time by whitening them through brushing away some of the surface stains (coffee, tea, tobacco) with a gentler polishing agent or non-bleaching agent. While these products may not whiten teeth as effectively as gel trays and strips, they can be effective for people who do not have excessive build up. Many people opt to use whitening toothpastes and gels as a maintenance tool after they have completed a more evasive whitening procedure.

Low cost.

Good to moderate results if used regularly with other whitening products.

Very minimal but may include temporary tooth sensitivity.

Use of the product should be discontinued or used less often if the sensitivity does not subside.

Professional Tray Teeth Whitening & Bleaching:

*Cost and Results:

Possible Side Effects:

Obviously having a professional do this whitening procedure will cost substantially more than the do it yourself kits. While the normal over the counter brands have a hydrogen or carbamide peroxide base of 10% - the products used by professionals may contain concentrations of 15% to 35%. The dentist will make a tray to specifically fit your teeth. You may have to wear the gel filled trays for long periods of time during several office visits. Or your dentist may have a process where you take your fitted trays with you and do the procedures in the comfort of your own home.

High cost.

Good to excellent results depending on the condition of your teeth.

As with the OTC products, temporary tooth sensitivity and irritation of the gums from an improper tray fitting can occur. However, it is important to note that irreversible damage to teeth has occurred in rare cases. Those with high gagging reflex conditions may want to choose a different method.

Professional Teeth Whitening Laser Treatments:

*Cost and Results:

Possible Side Effects:

While this is by far the quickest way to see results and it is also the most expensive treatment (besides caps or porcelain veneers).

It may require more than one visit to your dentist depending on the condition of your teeth and your desired result and can take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours. For this procedure, the dentist will apply a teeth whitening or bleaching agent and then use a laser light to help enhance the whitening action of the product.

High to very high cost.

Good to excellent results depending on teeth condition.

Tooth sensitivity which usually subsides over time. Some people are not happy with the results as teeth can appear unnatural looking making your teeth appear up to 8 shades whiter!

Porcelain Veneers:

*Cost and Results:

Possible Side Effects:

The crème de le crème of all teeth whitening procedures!

Veneers are made of thin tooth-colored materials and fit over your own teeth like a cap or crown. They normally do not cover the entire tooth but are crafted to fit and cover only the front of the tooth.

Porcelain veneers, enamel shaping, and/or bonding procedures can make a dramatic difference in the appearance of chipped or misshapen teeth.

Very high cost.

Excellent results when applied by a skilled dental professional.

Minor temporary gum sensitivity. This is an irreversible procedure as part of the tooth enamel must be removed before the veneer can be applied. You may also be advised to avoid certain food/drinks that may cause stains like red wine, coffee or tea.