How do OTC whitening treatments compare to in-office whitening?

posted: Apr. 08, 2025.

If you are unhappy with the color of your teeth, teeth whitening may be an excellent choice for you. Many patients of the doctor suffer from darkened teeth due to the natural aging process, regular consumption of coffee or tea, or nicotine staining from cigarettes.

Some people may have darkened teeth due to long-term use of medication. Certain medication-related stains on the teeth cannot be lightened, but virtually every other type of teeth stains can be effectively lightened using either professional dental whitening or at-home whitening.

While both types of whitening have benefits, at-home kits are less expensive and less effective overall. Professional teeth whitening is a highly effective option, but it requires a bit more of an investment. Here is the basic info on each type of whitening.

At-Home Whitening

At-home whitening is done in a number of different ways today. Some of the most popular options include:

Whitening strips that are applied to teeth and then removed after a specified period. These will typically be used once a day for at least a week.
Whitening gels or pastes that are placed in a one-size-fits-all plastic tray. These trays are worn, retainer style, for a set period of time once a day.
Whitening toothpaste, which is used daily, and whitening mouthwashes are also available today. These products require constant use to realize results.

In-Office Whitening

In-office whitening is the fastest way to achieve whiter teeth. If you want an almost immediate difference in the color of your teeth and their overall appearance, this is probably the option for you.

the doctor will typically apply the whitening formula directly to your teeth. Following the application, we will have you relax in our office between half an hour and an hour.

Some office-whitening formulas are strengthened with the use of heat, specialized lighting, or laser application. Patients will usually notice whitening results after only one application, but it usually takes at least a few appointments at Hobson Dental Associates to notice a truly dramatic change in tooth color.

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What Our Clients Say About Us

"Thank you! You truly are a magician! My teeth look and feel great! You and your staff were kind, competent, and understanding. Thank you!"

Thelma W.
"My family and I have been going to Hobson Dental and Dr. DeWeirdt for many, many years. The service is always amazing, and the staff treat us like family!! I highly recommend Hobson Dental!!"

Lara K.
"My whole family comes here and we love it! The staff are all so nice and caring. I love that it feels like a small town dental office; they remember you each and every time. Dr Deweirdt is an excellent dentist. He’s thorough and doesn’t rush into rash decisions about procedures."

Allison C.
"Excellent service from the moment I walked in the door!! My family and I found our new dentist. Dr. Deweirdt is awesome!! He answered all my questions and provided remarkable feedback. Most importantly I was pleased with his work!"

Margaret J.
"I have been going to Hobson Dental for almost 30 years. Pleasant, professional and courteous staff. Dr. Deweirdt knows his patients and families. I highly recommend Hobson Dental if you’re looking for a dentist."

Melissa A.
"Dr. DeWeirdt is hilarious, which makes you look forward to each visit. But he’s also very good at what he does, so you know you will be treated right. Staff is friendly, good hours to fit your schedule. Have referred family and friends there, many times."

Zach G.
"Dr. D and his staff are incredible. I can honestly say I Love ❤️ going to my dentist. He and his staff make you feel at home. Dr. D eliminates the stress and anxiety that can come with visiting the dentist. THEY ARE SUPERB!!!"
"I have been going to Hobson Dental since I was in college, 25 plus years. Dr Dewierdt is the BEST, great bedside manner and just a really good guy! He also knows his stuff. The staff at Hobson Dental has also been wonderful throughout the years from the Dental assistants, dental hygienists to the front desk. Highly recommend if you are looking for a new Dentist."

Anne S.
"Entire office is friendly. Hygenist Heidi was gentle and thorough. Always make me feel comfortable.
I have been a patient for several years."

Robyn
"Can't say enough great things about Hobson Dental. Great dentistry, they listen and truly understand their patients needs. Dr Glen DeWeirdt is fantastic and so personable. 100 star rating from me!!"

Sue C.
"Great dentist. Dr Glen deweirdt is wonderful. They are all so caring and understanding. They make you feel comfortable and relaxed. My experience was nothing but the best. Would highly recommend Hobson dental to everyone."

David M.
"Great dental care provider. Been coming here for years. Hygienists are nice and careful. Dr D is the best and does awesome work!! You will be well cared for."

Mike G.

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