You’ve finally made up your mind to have your teeth whitened. Now comes the part where you choose a method that suits you. Whitening pens and trays are the major ways to go about it, and this article will give you the details.
I dabble a lot in the teeth whitening world, particularly because my job requires me to have a smile all the time. Well, nearly all the time. I have nothing against it! I’ve done my research and talked to my dentist countless times on the options I can pick.
Whitening trays and pens are very popular. Probably has something to do with the ease of use, effectiveness, and the results afterward. They have their differences, especially in the means of application. Here’s what you need to know:
Whitening Pens
Teeth whitening uses bleaching agents that contain peroxide (carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide) in the form of a gel. As the name suggests, they look like pens. You can get these small brush-on tooth whiteners in your local drugstore, and they are unique.
What makes whitening pens a favorite is how easy they are to use. All you need to do is follow the instructions and adhere to the amount of time prescribed. Here’s a video on how you can use your new pen.
You will use your whitening pen to apply a layer of whitening gel on your teeth. For better results, I brush my teeth first and dry them with a clean cloth before painting the gel on them. Do not let the gel touch your gum or tissue in your mouth.
You can add an extra layer of gel onto the teeth with heavier stains than the rest. When done with the application, give it 20-30 minutes before rinsing the gel out.
Pros
- Easy to use
- You can whiten any stained teeth only
- Less cumbersome than whitening trays
- Affordable
Cons
- Less effective than trays
- The gel comes off easily – no device holding it to your teeth
- Irritation of the gum and soft tissue the gel comes into contact with
Whitening Trays
Unlike whitening pens, trays are a little more extensive, if not intrusive. While there are over-the-counter whitening trays, you can get custom-fitted trays at your dentist’s (which you can also use at home). Another huge reason I go for whitening trays – I get my teeth, and oral health checked.
Your dentist will have a look at your teeth and determine the amount of bleaching agent you need to give you a brighter smile. Even better, he or she may advise you on any cavities and issues that need fixing before proceeding to the whitening. Wouldn’t you rather have healthy and not just whitened teeth?
Once you apply the gel inside the trays, you wear your trays for the amount of time instructed, and perhaps twice a day.
Pros
- When done at the dentist, you can fix other problems
- More effective
- Under supervision, safety and optimal results are certain
- Custom-made trays protect your gum and soft tissue from the gel
- Custom made trays can go for years
Cons
- Ill-fitting trays can cause uneven results and irritation to your gums
- Slightly expensive
Conclusion
Whatever method you choose, remember that whitening your teeth doesn’t get rid of any underlying issues like cavities. Visit your dentist for advice on how to get your teeth healthy, and what you can do to maintain your new look.
Marie Stevenson
Having been a victim of counterfeit products Marie Stevenson decided to comb various markets both online and physical to find the best original beauty products for women. The influx of counterfeits is palpitation inducing especially when you consider the aftermath. The consequences of using fake makeup or tanning lotions can be quite expensive and life-threatening and the reason why Marie decided to provide you with insightful information that will actually enhance your health. Apart from saving the world from the influx of fake beauty products Marie is a dedicated environmentalist, loves to travel and read. Her famous line is that if you believe it and have the passion to do something right then don’t let someone else discourage since they don’t understand where you are coming from.