Step-by-Step Instructions for Using Your Dentist's Take-Home Teeth Whitening Trays
Have you ever seen a picture of yourself and noticed that your teeth are not as white as you’d like? This experience is fairly common, as stains from food, beverages, and more tend to build up over time.
The good news is that at-home whitening can be a simple solution. There are two main options for at-home teeth whitening: whitening trays from your dentist or over-the-counter products.
Many people don’t realize that one option is far more effective than the other. By using professional take-home whitening trays from your dentist, you can expect more vibrant whitening and a more comfortable experience.
As part of our commitment to excellence at Durango Dental, we offer free whitening gel at every cleaning to every customer who has previously had teeth whitening trays made at our office.
Perks of Professional Whitening Trays
Using professional whitening trays has many advantages over alternative options from local stores. By using custom-made trays, you can be confident that the entire surface of your teeth will be reached, ensuring you get even results. Store-bought trays and whitening strips don’t perfectly fit the counters of your teeth, which can cause patchy results.
Custom trays are also much more comfortable to wear during the whitening process because they are specially designed for your specific teeth and bite. Over-the-counter trays can feel awkward, and whitening strips often slide around on the surface of teeth.
Professional whitening trays also use clinical-grade ingredients for the whitening process, meaning they provide long-lasting results.
How to Use Your Take-Home Whitening Trays
Using take-home whitening trays couldn't be easier. All you need to do is follow the steps below for brilliant white, healthy-looking teeth.
Step 1: Make an appointment for a consultation with your dentist, during which you can discuss whitening goals. Your dentist may also use this appointment to take impressions of your teeth to create custom trays.
Step 2: Once you have picked up your trays from the dental office, prepare for the whitening process. Ensure your teeth are freshly brushed and flossed, and you have all the necessary supplies.
Step 3: Apply the whitening gel. To do this, just squeeze a small amount into each section of the trays and place them snugly onto your teeth.
Step 4: Wear the trays. Most people see the best results by wearing their take-home whitening trays for 30-60 minutes. The stronger the concentration, the less time you need to wear the trays. Most people average around 20 minutes for the length of time they wear the trays. Follow your dentist’s instructions to avoid any damage. Remember to remove any additional whitening gel that has escaped the trays into your mouth as you put them in.
Step 5: Once your time is up, remove the trays, clean them, and rinse your mouth. To clean your take-home whitening trays, rinse them under warm (but never hot water), and use a cotton swab or a soft toothbrush to remove any remaining gel.
Step 6: After treating your teeth with whitening gel, avoid things like soda, wine, yogurt, and fruit juice, as well as any other acidic foods or drinks, as this can increase your risk of sensitivity.
Step 7: Maintain your whitened teeth. Brushing and flossing daily is crucial, as well as staying away from stain-causing food and drinks like coffee.
Maximizing Your Results
To maintain your results, schedule regular cleanings with your dentist. The more regularly you get your teeth cleaned, the faster and easier whitening becomes. Also, since we offer free whitening gel with every cleaning, you will be set with enough product to maintain your brilliant smile.
FAQs About Take-Home Whitening Trays
Will my teeth be sensitive after whitening?
Yes, they can be, but sensitivity usually lasts only 24-48 hours.
When can I expect visible results?
Teeth whitening trays work pretty quickly. Some people see results right away. Everyone can expect to see an improvement of 1-2 shades within 2-3 weeks. Be sure to take before and after pictures to help you see the results better.
How long will my results last?
The tooth-whitening effects of take-home whitening trays tend to last around 4-6 months. Our offer of free tooth-whitening gel with every cleaning when you get our custom-made trays is perfect for anyone wanting to keep their teeth bright and white year-round.
Choose Durango Dental for Cosmetic Dentistry
If you are looking for the most effective teeth whitening treatment at home, take-home trays are the best solution.
So, choose the friendly expert team at Durango Dental if you are looking for a general dentist, a cosmetic dentist, or teeth whitening services in Durango or the surrounding areas.
Our team at Durango Dental has a wealth of experience with whitening trays and other cosmetic dentistry procedures. Contact us today to discuss your options and begin the process of achieving a brighter smile.