Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening Barely Works…Why?

The reality is this: You’ve tried store-bought whitening strips and gels, and they just aren’t doing what they say on the tin. Your results have been mediocre, and you’re not sure what’s wrong.

Over-the-counter (OTC) whitening products can make small improvements, but they usually don’t deliver the bright, lasting results you’re hoping for. At Indiana Emergency Dental, we help with teeth whitening in Bloomington and Indianapolis, Indiana, ensuring you get the results you want without the trial and error.

Weaker Ingredients Mean Poorer Results

The biggest difference between OTC products and professional whitening is the strength of the bleaching agent. Store-bought kits use weaker concentrations of peroxide to lift stains, which is great if you have minor stains to deal with. For those with deeper stains, they can’t penetrate deeply enough.

One-Size-Fits-All Trays Aren’t One-Size-Fits-All

Those universal whitening strips or trays might look convenient, but to work correctly, they need to fit perfectly. Custom whitening trays are more expensive but get the job done right, which is why many people opt for customized kits from their dentists instead.

Your Stains May Need Professional Help

Some stains just won’t respond to over-the-counter whitening agents. Discoloration from aging, medications like antibiotics, or internal tooth changes may require in-office whitening or alternative cosmetic treatments (such as bonding or veneers) to help get that bright white appearance you want for your teeth.

Learn More About Teeth Whitening in Bloomington and Indianapolis, IN

If you’ve tried whitening products without success, it’s time to call our office for a customized treatment plan. Call Indiana Emergency Dental in Indianapolis and Bloomington at 1-463-276-0541 to schedule a consultation to see how customized whitening options can make a difference for your smile.