Is At-Home or In-Office Teeth Whitening More Effective?

Are At-Home Teeth Whitening Strips Effective?


All whitening agents use a hydrogen peroxide solution, although the difference is in how concentrated the solution is. They can range from mild whiteners such as store-bought whitening strips for use at home to strong solutions such as the Zoom in-office whitening system. Since at-home whitening agents contain the least amount of hydrogen peroxide, they’ll take a much longer time to take effect and produce results.

Whitening strips are like small bandages that stick to your front teeth and so they usually only whiten those front teeth. If you have a wider smile, you may also notice that at-home whitening strips don’t provide the even, bright smile you’d hoped for.

Is In-Office Teeth Whitening More Effective?


Dentists’ in-office whitening products differ because they can whiten the whole smile. At-home whitening trays are custom-made to fit your smile. They are then filled with a gel solution and patients wear them daily for about 30 minutes for 7-10 days. The custom trays ensure that the sides of your teeth are coated just as effectively as the front, resulting in an even, white smile.


Zoom whitening is another solution that allows patients to walk out of the office with a whiter smile. A cosmetic dentist or dental assistant applies the hydrogen peroxide gel directly to the teeth then shines the Zoom light on the teeth. After just one hour, you can see dramatic results.

Ready to see a whiter, brighter smile?


Dr. Atari
and our knowledgable team are excited to help you get the white smile you have been looking for. Schedule now online or call us at (919) 298-2308 to book your appointment, or visit our office in-person at 5816 Creedmoor Road, Suite 105, Raleigh, NC 27612. We hope to see you soon!