Teeth whitening is a common pre-wedding procedure — but there are several different options that you should be aware of. 

Your wedding day memories will last a lifetime, but so will your wedding day photos. No one wants to be self-conscious about their smile when the camera bulbs are flashing. For couples with a wedding on the horizon, it’s common to think about brightening up their smile before the big day. Teeth whitening is a reliable way to achieve the smile you’ve always wanted without an invasive procedure. 

If you’re considering teeth whitening for your wedding day, you have several options. Teeth whitening comes in a variety of forms — you can get it done in your dentist’s office, in your own home, or through a combination of both. 

How does teeth whitening work? 

Different teeth whitening options use different methods to reverse discoloration. Most processes apply hydrogen peroxide, which travels through your enamel to break up the organic molecules that are causing discoloration. Some clinical procedures also use concentrated light beams to speed up the hydrogen peroxide reaction. 

For soon-to-be weds who are considering teeth whitening, here’s what you need to know. 

In-Office whitening

Getting your teeth whitened professionally is without a doubt the fastest way to whiten your teeth. Because of the rapid results, in-office whitening can be a lifesaver if you’re in a time crunch. The downside to in-office whitening? It’s probably the most expensive option, since dental insurance generally does not cover cosmetic procedures.

In-office teeth whitening is a relatively simple process: your dentist applies a strong hydrogen peroxide coating to your teeth, and your teeth noticeably whitens in under an hour. If your teeth aren’t as white as you’d hoped by the end of the procedure, you can always schedule another session. 

At-home whitening

Whitening strips. Teeth whitening strips can be a cost-effective solution, and they’re readily available in most convenience stores. Whitening strips require you to apply hydrogen peroxide-infused plastic strips to the surface of your teeth for half an hour daily. If you’re looking for a casual solution to do at home, whitening strips are a good bet. Because whitening strips can take two weeks before you notice a significant change, they are not ideal if you’re pressed for time. 

Strips are best used for minor discoloration instead of serious staining. Additionally, if your teeth aren’t very straight, whitening strips might be less effective than other solutions since they only work on the surfaces they touch. 

Toothpaste. Teeth whitening toothpaste is a low-maintenance way to gradually brighten your smile. Whitening toothpaste is most successful when you’re only dealing with minor discoloration, or as a complement to other whitening solutions. Because toothpaste is cheaper than the other options on the list, it can be an easy, cost-effective solution. The best whitening toothpaste combines hydrogen peroxide with polishing chemicals.  

Whitening trays. A major benefit of whitening trays is their convenience — they offer a strong whitening solution that you can obtain at your dentist’s office, then apply from the comfort of your own home. Whitening trays use a powerful hydrogen peroxide gel that shapes around your teeth for lasting results. Trays take longer to work than in-office bleaching, but they can provide serious, lasting results. 

Getting results at Espire

Before you choose your whitening solution, make sure to consult a dentist for important advice about whitening.

If you have caps or fillings — which cannot be whitened — your dentist can assess whether whitening is right for you at all. If you’re looking for an in-office solution, your dentist can also provide whitening sessions or gel trays. Your dentist will be there to help in case you experience intense sensitivity or discomfort during your whitening session. 

At Espire, our dentists will be happy to review your teeth whitening options with you before your big day. Whether you choose our popular in-office whitening services, take-home whitening trays, or a DIY option, the professionals at Espire will offer you the guidance you need. You shouldn’t have to hide your smile on your big day.