Teeth Whitening Trays: How they Work and Alternatives (2024)

FAQs

What can I use instead of whitening trays? ›

While there are many whitening options, some popular alternatives to whitening trays include: Whitening Strips: Instead of teeth whitening trays, you may want to consider using whitening strips, which are one of the easiest types of teeth bleaching kits to use.

Once you have trays, a bleaching solution is placed within them as you wear them for up to 4 hours/day for 1-2 weeks. You'll notice a significant improvement in the whiteness of your teeth within that time.

laser teeth whitening is the safest, quickest, and most effective option among the types of teeth-whitening treatments available. However, there are ultimately several ways to whiten teeth, and the most suitable option will depend on your timeline, budget, and priorities, as well as the nature of the discoloration.

The benefits of using custom whitening trays

A custom whitening tray fits well on a patient's teeth, which leads to improved whitening as their teeth are evenly immersed in the bleaching agent. The mouth tray also helps prevent the bleaching solution from getting into the person's gums during treatment.

If you try to apply the gel without a tray, you may end up with inconsistent results or gum irritation. It's best to follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper use and to consult with your dentist before using any teeth whitening products.

While whitening strips can work to some degree, whitening trays provide the best results.

If you wear your custom made trays for at least 3-4 hours in the day and/or wear the trays overnight for 14 consecutive days you will get the fastest results.

Tooth Sensitivity

Typically, this occurs when your whitening trays have been left in too long or you have whitened your teeth too many days in a row. It can be resolved by making sure you only leave your trays in for the recommended period of time.

One of the most common side effects is tooth sensitivity, which can occur during or after treatment. Overuse or misuse of teeth whitening products can also lead to enamel damage, gum irritation, and discoloration. Additionally, some types of tooth discoloration may not respond well to teeth whitening treatments.

Baking Soda: As long as you are careful to brush gently, baking soda can eliminate stains from the surface of your teeth without damaging them. Whitening Strips: Whitening strips mold to the shape of your teeth to whiten them. Whitening strips are both safe and effective.

What is the number 1 recommended teeth whitening? ›

Crest 3DWhitestrips Glamorous White

It's actually the first product to earn the ADA seal in the Home-Use Tooth Bleaching Products category. The strips promise to remove up to 10 years' of stains and yellowing (that's a lot of coffee!).

Wearing the trays once every 2 months will keep your teeth at a very stable colour indefinitely, however if you want to keep them at an even brighter white, you may want to wear the trays once a month. Whitening gel, for maintenance, is available from the practice.

We advise whitening your teeth just once a year, whether professionally or at home. This should keep sensitivity from becoming a problem while helping you maintain a white, natural-looking smile. Typically, the professional-grade whitening kits available from our dental office last about a year.

While it's tempting to use your night guard as a whitening tray, it's essential to understand that they're not designed for this purpose. The fit and material of night guards are made specifically for protecting your teeth, not for holding whitening gel.

For example, you always need to brush your teeth before applying the treatment gel. Depending on the product, you may need to wear the tray for a few hours during the day or overnight. Your dentist might recommend using the mouth tray for about two weeks to get the desired results. Be careful not to swallow any gel.

As NON-refrigerated whitening products break down and degrade during storage and shipping, hydrogen ions are produced. Those hydrogen ions are acid (pH = potential of Hydrogen). Whitening gels therefore become more and more acidic as they break down, resulting in an ever increasing possibility of sensitivity and pain.

Pinterest Tip: Mix 3 teaspoons of baking soda with 2 teaspoons of lemon juice. Use a Q-tip or cotton ball and gently swab teeth. After 30 seconds, rinse and brush teeth.