While many over-the-counter teeth whitening (also referred to as tooth whitening) treatments are available, the most effective ones are those provided by a dental professional. 

There are multiple reasons over-the-counter treatments do not work quite as well as treatments provided by a dentist.  Professional bleaching gels contain a higher concentration of the bleaching agent used for teeth whitening.  They can also be custom formulated by your dentist to ensure they are neither too weak nor too strong for your teeth.  This allows you to get the best results with the least amount of tooth sensitivity. 

There are two main options for professional teeth whitening. One is an in-office treatment and one is a take-home treatment.  The in-office treatment can be completed in as little as one appointment.  It involves your dentist applying a thin coating of bleaching gel to your teeth and using a special light to activate the gel.  The results are instantaneous and can last for years.  The other option involves your dentist making custom-fitted trays for you to use over the course of several days or weeks.  These trays are made from molds taken of your actual teeth and gums and allow the bleaching gel to work more effectively.  The trays are useful because they enable you to “touch-up” your bleaching from time to time if you begin to notice any new tooth staining. 

Both professional options are effective and can be provided by most dentists, especially dentists who offer cosmetic dentistry treatment.