Whitening your teeth at home has never been easier—or more confusing. With so many products promising a brighter smile, it’s hard to know what actually works. Should you grab something from the drugstore shelf? Or is it worth getting custom trays from your dentist?
If you’re trying to decide between the two, understanding how they differ can save you time, money, and frustration.
Store-Bought Whitening: Convenient but Limited
Whitening strips and over-the-counter kits are easy to find and budget-friendly. They’re designed to be accessible, but they use a lower concentration of whitening agents to minimize irritation—so results tend to be more gradual.
Most store-bought options rely on generic strip shapes or trays that don’t always fit snugly. That one-size-fits-all design can lead to uneven coverage, especially if your teeth are rotated or not perfectly aligned. Gel may end up on your gums, which increases the chance of sensitivity or irritation. And without any professional guidance, it’s hard to know how long is too long—or whether the product is right for your specific needs.
They can lift light surface stains, but deeper discoloration often needs something stronger and more precise. For some, these products are a good place to start. But if you’re looking for noticeable, lasting results, professional options usually offer better performance and more peace of mind.
Professional Grade Whitening
At our office, we offer two professional take-home whitening options: custom trays tailored to your smile, and ready-to-use one-size trays with powerful, dentist-approved gel.
Custom Whitening Trays: Personalized Fit, Targeted Results
Custom trays are made using impressions of your teeth, which means they’re shaped to fit your smile perfectly. This close fit ensures the whitening gel stays in contact with your enamel and away from your gums, reducing sensitivity and providing even, consistent results. You’ll receive professional-strength gel along with clear instructions for safe, effective use. Most patients wear the trays daily for 30 to 60 minutes over one to two weeks and notice a brighter smile within just a few days.
One of the biggest perks of custom trays is that they’re reusable. Once you have your trays, you can easily purchase additional whitening gel syringes from our office whenever you need a touch-up. That makes maintaining your results easy and cost-effective over time—without having to start from scratch.
Professional One-Size Trays: Affordable and Effective
Looking for something simple and affordable? Our professional one-size trays offer an easy way to whiten at home—no impressions needed. These reusable trays are designed to fit most smiles and come with professional-strength whitening gel that you apply yourself.
The real difference is the gel—it’s stronger and more effective than anything you’ll find at the store. Though the trays aren’t custom-molded, they’re designed to provide even coverage and are a clear step up from over-the-counter kits. If you’re looking for noticeable whitening on a budget, this is a great place to start.
Brighten Your Smile in Seattle With Dr. Reen Chung, DDS
Whether you’re looking for subtle brightening or a major refresh, we’ve got a whitening option that fits your lifestyle. At our Seattle office, Dr. Reen Chung offers professional-grade take-home whitening solutions that work—without the guesswork. Schedule a visit, ask your questions, and let us help you get the brighter, healthier-looking smile you’re after.
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