Everyone knows that one of the first things that people notice about you is your teeth.  They are seen when you talk, sing, smile, and sometimes even when you sleep (if you're one of those that leaves their mouth open when you sleep).  Everyone wants to have nice looking teeth.  And having white, crisp and clean looking teeth is especially desirable.  Maybe you've tried one of those home whitening systems that are available at most grocery stores or supermarkets.  They usually work fairly well, but there are some advantages of dentist teeth whitening systems.  This article aims to tell you exactly what those advantages are.

There are many options for teeth whitening, including bleach trays, white strips, paint-on whiteners and professional teeth whitening systems.  Let's look at each option in turn.

Bleach Trays
    Bleach trays are a teeth whitening technique that involves the use of a plastic "bleaching tray" that is filled with a special whitening gel and then placed over your teeth.  The tray is worn each day (often at night) for several weeks while the effects of the bleaching process take place.  They are a very effective way to gain whiter teeth, but can be messy since you're working with gel.  Also, the gel does not taste very good and so many people find bleach trays uncomfortable. 

White Strips
    Teeth whitening strips offer a unique way to whiten your teeth.  This type of whitening system yields similar results to bleach trays, but do not have the hassles associated with the use of gel and trays.  Strips come pre-cut to fit your teeth and have the gel already applied on the strip.  They are usually used for a few weeks before results are seen.  White strips are available over-the-counter at a very reasonable price.  Similar to bleach trays, the gel on the strips does not taste very good, but are worth the hassle for the results.

Paint-on Whiteners
    Paint-on whiteners are an interesting whitening option.  To use this kind of whitener, you brush a "paint" like substance onto your teeth using a small brush and then leave it in place for at least 30 minutes.  Most people leave it on overnight.  The best results occur when the teeth have been dried off before applying the paint. 

Dentist teeth whitening systems
    First of all, you may be wondering what the main differences are between dentist teeth whitening systems and home care systems.  Dentist teeth whitening systems are performed by a professional dentist in a dentist's office.  They use professional strength bleaching gels that you can't get over-the-counter.

Here is a list of some of the advantages of using dentist teeth whitening systems:
    Professional teeth whitening systems get your teeth whiter immediately.  This differs from home whitening systems that can take weeks to show any change. 
    Professional teeth whitening systems get your teeth a brighter white than you might see with at home whitening systems
    The results of dentist teeth whitening systems last longer than the results of at home systems

Before beginning any type of whitening system, you should talk to your dentist about what would be right for you.  S/he may say that at home systems will be perfectly safe and effective for you.  However, you may have certain dental situations that would be better off with a professional whitening system.