Updated in October of 2025
If you’ve ever wondered whether professional teeth whitening is worth it compared to at-home options, you’re not alone. With so many over-the-counter whitening kits and strips available, it’s easy to assume they all work the same way — but the results (and safety) couldn’t be more different.
At Harlow Dental in Charlotte, NC, we use Zoom! professional teeth whitening, a proven, prescription-strength system designed to deliver faster, longer-lasting, and safer results than store-bought alternatives.
How Zoom! Teeth Whitening in Charlotte, NC Works
All cosmetic dentistry starts with a comprehensive evaluation in our dental office. This is especially true if you are a new patient, have not been to the dentist in a while, or don’t have up-to-date or relevant records on file with us.
We make sure our teeth whitening product is safe for your oral health at this consultation. We consider the state of your teeth and gums, restorations, and anything else that may prevent teeth whitening.
We can address specific roadblocks to make professional teeth whitening a reality in many cases.
If approved for teeth whitening, we may recommend professional teeth cleaning before starting whitening treatment. Our teeth cleanings rid your teeth of buildup and tartar, which can impact your whitening results. When teeth are free of debris, teeth whitening gel better penetrate for an even and beautiful effect.
At your whitening appointment, we apply Zoom! solution, which is a prescription-grade gel, to the teeth, taking care not to touch the gum area. In as little as one hour, you’ll notice results.
We also take impressions of your teeth and craft custom whitening aligners to be used at home. With this method, you can further brighten your smile in your own time. Just follow the instructions provided by your cosmetic dentist in Steele Creek, NC.
Comparing Professional Teeth Whitening to At-Home Options
When it comes to whitening your smile, professional treatments are always best for a few reasons.
A Safe Teeth Whitening Experience
When you use over-the-counter teeth whitening systems, the ingredients may not be safe for your oral health profile. Your dentist has no way of knowing whether you’ll be left with tooth sensitivity or even enamel damage.
When you use professional teeth whitening in our dental office, you can rest easy knowing that your dentist has okayed the treatment.
Even and Predictable Teeth Whitening Results
Store-bought systems, especially tray-type kits, may not fit your teeth. This means an uneven result or less whitening than expected. Both can be disappointing, especially if you’re left with a yellow-colored tooth beside one brighter in shade.
With professional teeth whitening, you can count on even and predictable results.
Ability to Touch Up Your Smile
Store-bought kits may mean one application. To touch up your smile, you may need to purchase another system or gel.
However, when you collect your custom whitening tray and gel from our dental office, you have some product left over to touch up your smile whenever you’d like.
When Is the Best Time to Whiten My Smile?
Many of our patients choose to whiten their teeth before:
- Weddings or family photos
- Job interviews or public speaking events
- Vacations or reunions
The truth is, any time is a good time to refresh your smile. Whitening your teeth can boost confidence, enhance your appearance, and make your smile truly shine.
Brighten Your Smile with Professional Teeth Whitening in Charlotte, NC
We are always thrilled to talk to our patients about their smile goals. The only thing better is helping them reach those goals.
If you want more information or are ready to schedule your teeth whitening consultation, give us a call today. And don’t forget to ask about our exclusive Savings Plan.
Our dental team is happy to accept CareCredit financing, allowing you to budget your dentistry and make treatment more affordable. Talk to us to learn more.