Teeth Whitening Trays: All You Need To Know | The Teeth Blog (2024)

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Having pearly white teeth is no longer considered a luxury but rather a necessity. Those with whiter teeth are more self-confident and generally feel better about their bodies. However, teeth whitening was for long considered a preserve for the wealthy. You would have to dig deep into your pockets to achieve brighter smiles due to the limited options.

Today, there are more than enough methods of whitening teeth, including some techniques that you can use at home. One of the most effective ways of whitening teeth is through whitening trays. These products are known to deliver results and, above all, are much more affordable than in-office whitening.

But what exactly are teeth whitening trays? What are some of their benefits and drawbacks over other methods? Let’s delve deeper and understand more about teeth whitening trays.

What Are Teeth Whitening Trays?

Teeth whitening (bleaching) trays are key players in DIY teeth whitening. They are products made from flexible, moldable material that fits on your teeth.

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You can also get custom teeth whitening trays at the dentist’s or by the provider. Some of them can be easily purchased over the counter at your local dental store. You add a whitening gel or material to the trays before placing them over your teeth for a specified amount of time to make them whiter.

Custom-made teeth whitening trays that come directly from the provider or your dentist are generally considered more effective as they are made to fit your mouth properly. This means there’s no room for leakages or the tray slipping off. Check out one of these Hismile reviews if searching for a whitening product directly from the provider/manufacturer.

However, teeth whitening trays from dentist cost a lot more than your local store.

Even though most over-the-counter trays are not customized to fit your teeth, some are pretty good as they are flexible enough to fit your mouth.

How Do Teeth Whitening Trays Work?

Depending on the brand or model you opt for, some teeth whitening trays are pre-filled with a peroxide-based gel or whitening agent. Others come as a kit — you get the teeth whitening trays with syringes that contain the whitening gel. All you have to do during each whitening session is fill the trays with the required amount of peroxide-based whitening agent.

Unlike in-office whitening, you will have to use teeth whitening trays for longer. This is because the whitening agents have lower concentrations of hydrogen peroxide or other whitening agents.

The main reason behind this is that higher concentrations of the whitening product can be harmful to your teeth and surrounding tissues (gums and cheeks) if not used properly. This is why you can only get the dentists as the only people permitted to administer such concentrated levels of peroxides.

Depending on the product, you can use it for a few minutes for each session, while others may require you wear them longer (including throughout the night).

Teeth Whitening Trays Before and After

Teeth whitening trays are known to be quite effective, as long as you pick the right brand or product. It is also advisable to consult with your dentist before settling on any teeth whitening product, especially if you have sensitive teeth and (or) gums or, at least, choose a top teeth whitening for sensitive teeth product.

Here are a few teeth whitening trays before and after images to consider:

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How to Use Teeth Whitening Trays

One of the biggest concerns people have is asking ‘is teeth whitening safe?’ Generally, it all depends on the methods you use, but technically, teeth whitening is safe.

Even if you’re using custom-made trays, whitening treatments are only effective when used correctly. Failure to follow the proper instructions to the letter may increase the risk of tooth sensitivity, pain, or even damage the enamel.

Here’s a general guideline for the correct way to use teeth whitening trays:

1. Prep the teeth beforehand

Thoroughly brush and floss your teeth before each whitening session. You can also use desensitizing products (like gel or toothpaste) if you have sensitive teeth to avoid irritations associated with the whitening agents.

2. Insert the gel as instructed

Always read the instructions on the product or follow your dentist’s instructions if custom-made. Failure to adhere to the instructions, especially how you apply the gel and how much should be used, can lead to unsatisfactory results, or worse, irritations.

3. Firmly push the trays into place

Ensure that the tray you use firmly fits into place and that no leakages can be noticed. Remember not to swallow any of the bleach, and you can either spit or wipe it off with a clean cloth.

4. Wear for the directed period

Only wear the trays for the allocated time limit. Do not exceed as the peroxide may start to wear out your enamel.

5. Rinse after use

Rinse your mouth with clean water to remove any remaining gel.

6. Clean the trays and store them properly

You need to clean and wipe out any remaining gel from the trays before storing them properly until the next use.

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Why Are Custom Teeth Whitening Trays Preferred?

Teeth whitening trays are a preferred option in today’s cosmetic dentistry. But why is that the case? Here are a few reasons to back that claim:

  • They are effective: teeth whitening trays are quite effective and can be compared to in-office teeth whitening. The only downside here is that treatment may take longer.
  • They cost less: teeth whitening trays are relatively less costly compared to teeth whitening solutions, such as at the dentist’s clinic.
  • Highly convenient: you can use teeth whitening trays whenever you are comfortable and get to clean teeth in the comfort of your house.

The Best Teeth Whitening Trays in 2022

While there are many teeth whitening kits to consider, they all vary in efficiency, cost, durability, among other factors. Here are our top three picks for the best teeth whitening trays in 2022:

iSmile LED Light Teeth Whitening Trays

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iSmile guarantees brighter teeth up to 8 shades whiter in 7 days. Through its light-activated technology, the product can remove stains on your teeth. You only need to wear it for about 10 minutes every day to achieve optimal results.

Product benefits:

  • 5x led light-activated whitening technology
  • Guarantees 8 shades brighter within 7 days
  • Patented comfort mouth tray
  • 100% customer satisfaction guarantee

Where to buy:

You can buy your iSmile LED Light Teeth Whitening Tray at only $29.99 in the button below.

The ConfiDental Moldable Teeth Whitening Trays

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The ConfiDental Moldable Mouthguard is a versatile product that can be used to achieve various things like sports protection, teeth grinding, straightening, or whitening. Made with BPA-free and Phthalates-free premium grade material, these trays are easy to use and clean. The moldable material also makes it easy to custom-fit it to accommodate your mouth size.

When using it for teeth whitening, all you have to do is place a drop of the whitening agent inside the trays and wear it for the period indicated on the specific whitening agent’s instructions.

Product benefits:

  • Moldable to accommodate each patient’s mouth
  • Made with BPA-free and Phthalate-free materials
  • Highly durable
  • Easy to use and clean

Where to buy:

Buy the ConfiDental Moldable Teeth Whitening Trays in Amazon at only $16.95.

Opalescence Go Prefilled Teeth Whitening Trays

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The Opalescence Go is a prefilled teeth whitening tray that makes the work easier for you — simply buy and wear it. You can get this product in two options: with 10% peroxide to be worn for 20 – 30 minutes every day for 5 – 10 days, or the 15% peroxide to be worn for 10 – 15 minutes every day for the same period.

Product benefits:

  • It’s ready to use right out of the box
  • The UltraFit tray conforms to any smile
  • Available in different flavors to suit individual needs
  • Vegan and gluten-free — no animal products used

Where to buy:

Get the Opalescence Go prefilled teeth whitening tray by clicking the button below at only $59.64.

Teeth Whitening Tray Tips from the Dentist

Here are a few dentist-approved instructions to guide you on your teeth whitening tray usage:

  • Follow all instructions (from the dentist or brand) to the letter
  • Ensure to clean and store the trays well after each session
  • Do not exceed the allocated time limit
  • The results may vary from one person to another

FAQ

Do teeth whitening trays work?

Teeth whitening trays are effective and are known to work just like in-office treatment, just that the treatment may take longer.

How much do teeth whitening trays cost?

The total cost of teeth whitening trays varies from the brand, the materials used, and where you get them from. On average, you should be ready to spend between $50 and $600 for the treatment.

How often should I use teeth whitening trays?

How often you use your teeth whitening trays depends on the brand and the concentration of its whitening agent. On average, you should be ready to wear them at least once, every day, for about 5 – 30 days.

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Written by The Teeth Blog Team

Choosing the best teeth aligners online, toothbrushes or whitening kits can be a confusing and difficult process, especially when there are so many options out there that you begin to lose your mind. That's why we have created this blog, to test all the different option and give users our honest opinion and try to help you with your decision.The Teeth Blog Team is joined by a group of teeth enthusiasts who loved to try and review all the dental products they find. So they thought it was a great idea to make a blog and share all their knowledge, making it easier for everyone looking for honest and objective reviews of dental products.

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Teeth Whitening Trays: All You Need To Know | The Teeth Blog (2024)

FAQs

Are whitening trays from dentists worth it? ›

The primary reason to rely on your dentist's custom-tailored teeth whitening tray is it will whiten unsightly teeth much better than any product available over-the-counter. The dentist will show you exactly how your personalized teeth whitening tray should be applied to your teeth.

Are you supposed to brush your teeth after using whitening trays? ›

After Whitening: Remove the tray and rinse off your teeth.

Brush any remaining gel away. Brush, floss and continue routine dental cleaning. You may initially notice white splotches on teeth following removal of tray. This is typically cause by dehydration of the teeth and should diminish within an hour.

How long should you leave teeth whitening trays in? ›

Place the whitening tray(s) in your mouth carefully, making sure that it is seated all the way. Remove any excess gel from the gum tissue with your finger or dry toothbrush. Keep the tray in your mouth for 30-60 minutes. After 30-60 minutes, remove and clean the trays with cold water.

What teeth whitening do the Kardashians use? ›

As global marketing campaigns go, getting Kim Kardashian to trigger a TikTok tidal wave of hype is probably about as good as it gets. Australian teeth whitening brand HiSmile, dubbed 'purple shampoo for teeth', posted a video to its own TikTok page featuring the US reality star earlier this year.

What are the pitfalls of teeth whitening? ›

Some home kits don't contain enough whitening product to be effective. Also, if a dental professional isn't doing the whitening, the mouthguard provided may not fit properly so some of the bleaching gel may leak out onto your gums and into your mouth, causing blistering and sensitivity.

What are the cons of teeth whitening kits? ›

However, teeth whitening treatments can cause damage to the enamel if not done correctly or overused. Enamel damage can lead to increased sensitivity, pain, and white spots on your teeth. It's essential to consult with a dentist before using any teeth whitening products to ensure they're safe for your teeth.

Can I drink water with teeth whitening trays in? ›

You should not eat, drink or smoke whilst wearing the trays. The whitening process works at different rates for each individual, but most patients report that a noticeable effect after just four treatments.

How do you sleep with teeth whitening trays? ›

It is very important to remove all the excess material from around the gums or the palate prior to sleeping with the trays in place. The darker your teeth, the longer they will take to lighten. Some changes usually occur after 1-2 weeks, and most teeth will lighten in 4 -6 weeks.

How long after teeth whitening trays can I eat normally? ›

After 24-72 hours, you can resume your regular diet. The following are the things that you need to avoid after teeth whitening. Sugary foods can irritate your teeth and trigger the bacteria responsible for causing decay. Any food that stains make your teeth vulnerable to staining.

What is the number 1 teeth whitening? ›

The Crest Whitening Emulsion with LED Light stands out as the best overall teeth whitening product due to its ease of use, effectiveness, and comfort. Its simple, straightforward process, coupled with the ability to carry on with normal activities during treatment, makes it highly convenient and user-friendly.

What is the HiSmile controversy? ›

HiSmile's advertisem*nts often focus on "color correction technology" and "light interference technology," promising guaranteed instant results. The lawsuit claims that these marketing practices are based on pseudoscience and exaggerate the effectiveness of products like the V34 Colour Corrector and PAP+ Whitening Pen.

How are all celebrities teeth so white? ›

Have you ever wondered how every celebrity is able to get their teeth so dazzlingly white? Cosmetic dentistry is the answer. This field of dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of the patient's smile. To do this, a cosmetic dentist might target the size, shape, alignment, or whiteness of the patient's teeth.

Is getting your teeth whitened at the dentist worth it? ›

As a result, you may wonder if professional tooth whitening is worth the cost. Lots of patients are curious about in-office treatment and ask if it is really better than at-home options. The answer is a resounding yes. The most effective way to whiten teeth is with a professional in-office treatment.

What are the side effects of teeth whitening trays? ›

The most common teeth whitening side effect is tooth sensitivity. This often subsides within a few days to a week after treatment. Other potential side effects include gum irritation, redness, and soreness in the mouth. These side effects are also typically temporary and will resolve on their own.

How effective is a teeth whitening kit? ›

At-Home Whitening: While at-home teeth whitening kits are convenient and cost-effective, professional treatments from a dentist offer more significant benefits. Effectiveness and Safety: At-home kits can show some results but are limited in their effectiveness due to lower concentrations of whitening agents.

Why is teeth whitening at dentist so expensive? ›

The cost difference mainly exists due to the lesser efficacy of whitening from at-home products. These products tend to contain lower concentrations of bleaching agents and do not work as good or fast as in-office teeth whitening.

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