With in-home bleaching, the dentist makes an impression for a model of the teeth, fabricates a custom-fitted tray and prescribes a bleaching agent that comes in the form of a bleaching gel. The gel is placed in the custom-fitted tray and worn up to two hours daily or at night for about two weeks. The amount of time the custom-fitted tray is worn and the duration may vary according to a person’s individual need and the recommendations of the dentist. The dentist will monitor the entire process of in-home bleaching to assure its effectiveness and safety

Over the counter products that are self-administered are not recommended, although they may appear to cost less. Bleaching treatment should be done under the supervision of a dentist following a proper exam and diagnosis. Whiteners with the ADA Seal of Acceptance have proven to be safe and effective.