If your smile had started to become discolored, you may be thinking about going to your local grocery or drug store to purchase a teeth whitening kit. Though some of these products offer results, is it a good idea to use them? Unfortunately, not really. Read on to learn about the dangers of overusing store-bought teeth whitening products as well as what your dentist can do to help you improve the look of your smile.
How Do Store-Bought Teeth Whitening Products Work?
There are several different types of over-the-counter teeth whitening products, including strips, toothpaste, and trays. Whitening strips and trays both use peroxide to lift stains. Since neither of them is customized to fit your smile, this often results in leakage or uneven results. Whitening toothpaste usually contains baking soda, charcoal, or other abrasives to buff away stains.
A few months after using store-bought whitening products, you will probably need to touch up your results. Additionally, since many of these products only remove stains on the surface, deeper discoloration usually goes untouched. Store-bought whitening products are also weaker than professional ones and can be diluted by your saliva.
The Risks of Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening
Along with lackluster results, store-bought teeth whitening products hold the risk of overexposure. If you use them too often, it results in a range of oral health issues, such as sensitive teeth, a change in the color of your gums, and gum irritation. It may also cause enamel erosion, which makes your smile more susceptible to decay.
Tooth damage is another possibility and is more likely to occur if you have untreated gum disease or cavities. If there are any lingering side effects after the application of these store-bought whiteners, this is a sign that you should immediately stop using them and reach out to your dentist.
Why Professional Teeth Whitening Is Better
Unlike over-the-counter products, professional teeth whitening products use stronger bleaching agents. This means that your results will be long-lasting and more dramatic. You’ll also have the supervision of your dentist. They’ll make sure that you understand how the procedure works so you can make your results last longer. If you are interested in whitening your smile at home, some dentists also offer kits with customer trays and all the tools you need to achieve your desired results.
Over-the-counter teeth whitening products may work at times, but they aren’t worth the potential damage. Speak with your dentist if you’re interested in improving the look of your smile so you can be on your way to the beam of your dreams!
About the Practice
Bright Smiles Family Dentistry is led by Drs. Praveena Muddana and Sumit Chanana. They offer patients a range of cosmetic dental treatments, such as teeth whitening. In-office whitening can improve the look of your smile in just one visit, and take-home visits allow you to brighten your beam on your own time over a few weeks. Regardless of which option you pick, you’re sure to love the results! Visit Bright Smiles Family Dentistry’s website or call their Brookfield dental office at (262) 563-9100 if you want to learn more about teeth whitening or to schedule an appointment.