Teeth whitening is a popular solution for achieving a brighter smile. There are a variety of options available to achieve teeth whitening, but one of the most popular and effective are custom at-home trays, which allow you to see a gradual improvement in whiteness over time and operate on your schedule.
However, many wonder if using teeth-whitening trays pose any potential risks. In this article, we examine the benefits of using take-home trays, as well as discuss any potential drawbacks or safety concerns to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding Custom Teeth Whitening Trays
Custom, take-home whitening trays are made by dentists and molded to your teeth, providing even gel application that transforms your smile. These trays are designed to minimize leakage into your gums, reducing sensitivity and irritation.
Take-home trays use higher concentration bleaching agents than over-the-counter whitening strips. This allows for faster, more noticeable results when worn over the course of 1-2 weeks or more, depending on levels of discoloration. Your dentist will work with you to develop a specific wear plan, and provide instructions on how to ensure you’re getting the best results.
Evaluating Safety for Everyday Use
Take-home teeth whitening trays are safe and effective. However, there are still some precautions you should be aware of before committing to the treatment.
Potential Sensitivity and Irritation
Frequent exposure to bleaching agents used in teeth whitening can lead to some temporary tooth or gum sensitivity. While this typically is not a long-lasting side effect, those with particularly sensitive teeth may want to consider alternative options.
Follow Professional Guidelines
Unlike in-office whitening treatments, custom trays won’t have the supervision of a dental professional to ensure it’s being properly applied. When using take-home trays, it’s essential to closely follow the personalized instructions given to you by your dentist, including how long to wear the trays each day. Overusing the trays or deviating from the treatment plan increases the risk of enamel damage from high-concentration bleaching gels.
Quality of Materials and Whitening Gels
If you’re going to use custom take-home whitening trays, it’s essential to only use those given to you by your dentist. Dental practices ensure high-quality materials and safe gel formulas are being used. Cheap or unregulated kits typically purchased online may contain harsh chemicals that can make treatment painful and ineffective.
Benefits of Regular (But Not Excessive) Trays Usage
Regular tray usage for at-home whitening is necessary for achieving satisfactory results. Improper usage could result in a blotchy, uneven finish or a lack of overall effectiveness. However, it’s also important not to overuse your take-home trays.
- Gradual, Controlled Whitening: Regular tray usage during the day or night allows for a natural, steady progression during the whitening process. This helps prevent “over-bleaching” which can lead to poor results.
- Targeted Stain Removal: Consistent tray use helps lift persistent stains that are preventing your teeth from being as white as possible. This includes stains from coffee, red wine, or smoking, that could cause discoloration over time. Whitening trays help maintain a bright, healthy appearance, especially for those with ongoing stain-causing habits.
- Customization of Gel Strength: Dentists can modify the gel concentration of your take-home trays if you have any sensitivity or discomfort. This ensures your treatment will be comfortable and suited to your tolerance and needs.
Possible Downsides to Everyday Use
While custom trays are highly effective, there are also some drawbacks you should be aware of when using them, every day.
- Risk of Overuse: Not following specific instructions from your dentist could lead to overuse. This can weaken your enamel or irritate soft tissues, causing severe discomfort. Some guests may require rest periods to let their teeth recover in between sessions. Work with your dentist to develop the best timeline and wear frequency for your specific needs.
- Time Commitment: Wearing custom trays every day for the duration of the treatment period is a commitment, unlike in-office whitening treatments which can be done in just one session. To achieve full results, take-home trays must be worn consistently, which can be inconvenient for those with busy schedules or frequent disruptions. To help avoid complications, you may opt to wear the trays at night.
- Cost for Replacement: Some trays, especially those not professionally made, can wear out or warp, especially with frequent use. Having to replace trays or gels may require another trip to the dentist, and can add to the overall expense of whitening your teeth.
Ensuring Safe and Effective Daily Use
There are several easy things you can do to ensure you’re getting the maximum benefit out of your take-home whitening trays beyond following care instructions. Communicating routinely with your dentist, maintaining proper oral hygiene, and closely monitoring signs of sensitivity are key to a successful whitening treatment.
Talk to Your Dentist
When speaking with your dentist about take-home whitening trays, discuss your overall goals and existing oral conditions. You should work with them to find the correct bleaching agents, noting any sensitivity or negative reactions you may have to certain chemicals.
Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene
Brushing and flossing regularly is a key part of any oral health care treatment. When using whitening trays, brush and floss before wearing the trays to reduce trapped food or bacteria. After you remove the trays, rinse thoroughly with clear residual gel. Your dentist may also recommend that you clean the tray with a soft toothbrush after use.
Monitor Signs of Sensitivity
If you experience sharp pain or lingering discomfort from using at-home whitening trays, stop or reduce the frequency of using the trays and contact your dentist to see if there are any other adjustments needed. Using over-the-counter desensitizing toothpaste can sometimes offer relief from tray-use discomfort.
Custom Whitening Trays Available at Your Local Ideal Dental
When used correctly and monitored for sensitivity, custom teeth whitening trays are a safe and effective way to whiten teeth. They deliver gradual consistent whitening that leads to natural-looking results that can enhance your smile and boost your self-confidence. However, you need to be careful when using custom trays not to overuse them or use them improperly to prevent harming enamel or causing irritation.
If you’re interested in learning more about how custom whitening trays may be a fit for you, contact your local Ideal Dental location to schedule a consultation.