teeth whitening

[Anonymous]

Please recommend your process for whitening teeth. Did it work? Were there side effects? I'm interested in both over the counter and dentist prescribed processes. Thanks

[Anonymous]

I have custom fitted trays made by the dentist. They were pricey--$600--but they fit your teeth perfectly. After the intial bleaching period, most patients do maintenance just a few times a year (after your six-month cleaning) or when you feel you need it.

The drawback? My teeth are sensitive to the bleaching gel, so my initial bleaching period took a little longer than normal. (The dentist said to bleach every three or four days instead of every night.) Not everyone has this sensitivity though.

Also, just an FYI--my dentist recommends the bleaching trays but not the in-office bleaching (where you sit under a light). He thinks that in-office stuff is too hard on your enamel.

[Anonymous]

The trays work, but do take a couple of weeks or so. The in office bleaching is a ripoff - does not work nearly as well.