Professional Teeth Whitening vs. Natural Teeth Whitening

While there are many different whitening options that claim to brighten teeth, the effectiveness of these techniques vary. Trends in natural teeth bleaching, such as charcoal teeth whitening and coconut oil teeth whitening, are often advertised in magazines or online as an organic alternative to traditional cosmetic dental treatment. According to the American Dental Association, these DIY remedies have no evidence to substantiate the claim that they can act as a natural whitener. In fact, research into charcoal whitening suggests that the abrasive nature of the substance can strip the teeth of its natural enamel and potentially weaken the tooth structure. Similarly, over-the-counter whitening products—such as toothpastes, rinses, and whitening strips—usually fail to reach past the surface of the enamel to eliminate discoloration in the dentin, or the bony tissue behind the outer enamel. Consequently, surface stains may be removed, but yellow pigmentation from coffee, wine, tobacco use, or the aging process typically remain.

Professional teeth whitening is considered the most reliable technique to achieve high-quality results that can be immediately apparent. This is typically the most ideal solution for patients who wish to whiten their teeth in time for a special event, such as a wedding, graduation, or other occasion. The bleaching agents utilized by cosmetic dentists are designed to penetrate below the outer enamel to correct deep discoloration, often allowing patients to experience a powerful change in tooth shade in just one whitening session. Plus, the amount of bleaching agent used, as well as the frequency of treatments, can be customized for a more comfortable, convenient, and effective whitening experience.

What Teeth Whitening Treatments are Available?
KöR® Whitening System

Dr. Rallis utilizes the state-of-the-art KöR® teeth bleaching system, which can allow patients to receive the best quality of whitening treatment without the need for special lights or lasers. Unlike other whitening systems, this innovative bleaching technology utilizes a continuous refrigeration process to prevent the bleaching agents from losing their potency. This constant refrigeration can help ensure that the active ingredients in KöR® gels do not degrade with environmental changes, a possibility that exists when whitening gels are left in warm conditions or at room temperature. What’s more, KöR® whitening can be an excellent option for those who experience tooth sensitivity, as the system includes a desensitizing solution that can be applied to the teeth prior to whitening to increase patient comfort during treatment.

Our teeth whitening treatments can take place in the office, or in the comfort of your own surroundings with our at-home kits. With easy-to-use whitening trays that are molded to fit your mouth, the KöR® bleaching agents can powerfully lighten teeth in as little as 30 minutes to an hour. Dr. Rallis will advise you on how long, as well as how often, you should undergo whitening treatments according to your teeth’s sensitivity levels and cosmetic goals.

How Long Do Teeth Whitening Results Last?

The results from the KöR® system are designed to last indefinitely with routine maintenance treatments available as needed. While your teeth are still susceptible to the effects of the aging process, your teeth will always be whiter than if you had not undergone treatment and the final outcome can be preserved with periodic at-home whitening. Furthermore, patients can help keep their teeth light and bright by limiting their consumption of coffee, wine, tobacco, and other staining agents, as well as undergoing semi-annual professional dental cleanings.

How Much Does Teeth Whitening Cost?

As a personalized treatment, the cost of KöR® teeth whitening will depend on an array of factors unique to your cosmetic goals, such as:

• Whether you undergo at-home or in-office whitening sessions
• Your age and the condition of your teeth
• The length of your treatment plan

The average price of professional teeth whitening can range from $500 to $1,200, although your expenses will ultimately be unique to your needs. After your consultation with one of our dentists, we will be able to provide you with a personalized cost estimate. Our office accepts several payment methods, including dental financing with CareCredit®. This trusted healthcare lending institution offers qualified candidates a variety of short and long-term payment plans to choose from, many of which include low monthly installments with low- to no-interest rates. This can help approved patients make the cost of teeth whitening more affordable. For more information about the cost of teeth whitening, or to schedule a consultation, please contact our practice today.