In-Office Procedures

The most common one involves custom-made trays filled with bleaching solution that fit firmly over your teeth. Because your dentist supervises the procedure, a stronger bleaching solution can be used than what's found in home kits.

He may recommend doing everything in his office. In that case, a light or heat source may be used to speed up the process.

Another option is to get fitted for custom-made whitening trays that you can use at home.

Which Is Right for You?

"If your teeth and gums are in excellent condition, you may want to consider an [at-home] whitener," says Kellee Kattleman Stanton, DDS, a spokeswoman for the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.

At-home whiteners are easy to use and relatively cheap. But if your teeth or gums are sensitive, custom-made trays that you get at your dentist's office may help you avoid irritation.

Professional solutions used by your dentist are typically stronger than those in over-the-counter kits, so your teeth may whiten more quickly. He can also make sure that sensitive gums don't get more irritated.

Whiteners work only on the tough outer surface of your teeth, enamel. "If you whiten your teeth too much, you can end up making your natural teeth whiter than neighboring crowns or composite fillings," Stanton says. "Using whiteners too often, especially in combination with whitening tooth paste, can even turn teeth a little gray."

Who shouldn't use whiteners? Women who are pregnant or nursing and anyone with gum problems or untreated tooth decay. People with sensitive teeth should be cautious. Talk to your dentist first.

webmd.com

RELATED Statement on the Safety and Effectiveness of Tooth Whitening Products