Professional Teeth Whitening vs. DIY Kits: What You Need to Know

July 24, 2025

A bright smile is about confidence—and choosing the right teeth whitening method can make all the difference. At Akron Smile, we offer in-office professional teeth whitening with  Zoom!. At-home solutions can also be effective, but they lack some of the strengths of in-office whitening methods. Here’s a clear breakdown of each—so you can decide what’s best for your smile.

In‑Office Zoom! Whitening at Akron Smile

What It Is:
Philips Zoom! Whitening uses a powerful hydrogen peroxide gel activated by an LED light, all completed under professional supervision.

Key Benefits of Zoom! In-Office Whitening

Fast & Dramatic Results: Up to 8 shades whiter in under an hour, ideal for an event-ready smile.
Deep, Even Whitening: The high-concentration gel and light combination penetrate stains more thoroughly than over-the-counter options.
Increased Safety: Your treatment is carefully monitored by our dental team at Akron Smile to protect gums and minimize sensitivity.
Customizable Comfort: Zoom! offers adjustable light intensity and desensitizing agents to reduce sensitivity for most patients.
Trusted & Proven: As the #1 patient-requested whitening brand in the U.S. (and a patient favorite at Akron Smile), Zoom! has high satisfaction and proven results.
Affordable: On average, Zoom! Whitening costs about $500, which is more cost effective than most other professional whitening procedures.

At‑Home Whitening: Convenient & Affordable

What It Is:
Ranging from whitening strips and brush-on gels to custom trays from your dentist, these options typically use lower concentrations of peroxide for gradual brightening.

Key Advantages:

Budget-Friendly & Easy: More affordable than in-office treatments—over the counter kits range from $20–$50—and can be done on your schedule .
Gentle on Teeth: Lower peroxide levels generally result in less sensitivity, making them suitable for those with mild concern.
Customizable Control: If you go the dental tray method, custom trays from your dentist help ensure even coverage and reduce gum irritation. These provide better results on average than a standard over the counter kit.

Comparing the Options

Feature	Zoom In‑Office	At‑Home Kits
Speed	Immediate—1 session (45–60 min)	Gradual—days to weeks
Whitening Level	Up to 8 shades brighter	Typically 2–6 shades
Cost	$400–$600	$20–$200+
Safety	Professionally supervised with reduced risk	Safe if used correctly; misuse increases risk
Longevity	Deeper penetration = longer-lasting results	Good short-term brightness; maintenance needed

Which Option Is Right for You?

Quick, effective transformation? Go with Zoom in-office whitening.
Mild discoloration or budget-conscious? Choose a supervised take-home kit.
Long-term brightness? Use in-office Zoom first, then maintain with at-home touch-ups.

Consult with our team at Akron Smile—we’ll help you choose the best path to a brighter, healthier smile.

Schedule a Whitening Consultation Today

Ready to explore your options? Schedule a consultation to learn whether in-office, take-home kits, or a mix of both best suits your dental needs and lifestyle.

Schedule your visit through our simple online form or give our office a call or text at 330-434-3485 to answer your questions and schedule your visit.