DIY and inexpensive teeth whitening might seem like a good idea when you see the price tag. Unfortunately, too much of a good thing can be harmful to your teeth, and the real truth is that these products often don’t produce the best results. Read on to learn what can happen when you try to brighten your smile too often and why it’s best to let a professional take care of your teeth.
What is Wrong with DIY and Store-Bought Teeth Whitening?
There are several issues associated with buying store-bought whitening kits. Whether it’s one-size-fits-all trays, strips, pens, or another similar product, the following problems can occur:
- DIY remedies, such as baking soda, charcoal powder, and lemon juice, can damage tooth enamel the more they are used. Although they may remove surface stains, their abrasiveness wears away the top layer over time, causing sensitivity and potentially yellow teeth.
- Store-bought strips do not tend to fit teeth well, which means the bleaching agent overlaps your gums. This can cause irritation if whitening is done too often.
- Store-bought kits often contain highly concentrated whitening solutions, so they require more frequent use to achieve results. This can lead to additional enamel damage and sensitivity.
How Can You Tell You’re Whitening Your Smile Too Often?
If you’re unsure whether you’ve gone overboard when whitening your smile, there are a few signs that will make it clear that it’s time to give your teeth a rest:
- Your pearly whites look translucent
- Discoloration is evident when looking at the edges of your teeth (this can be caused by peroxide)
- Your teeth are highly sensitive, making eating and drinking a troublesome task
- Your gums appear swollen and inflamed
- Each time you whiten your teeth, you notice it is a painful experience
Why Should You Let a Cosmetic Dentist Whiten Your Teeth?
Choosing the right cosmetic dentist for teeth whitening is a worthwhile investment for many reasons. If you want your smile to shine and remain healthy, schedule an appointment with a professional.
- A cosmetic dentist will ensure a safe process by providing custom-made take-home trays and high-grade bleaching gel, along with clear instructions.
- A custom take-home kit will produce results in two weeks, giving your teeth the treatment they need to appear brighter but less sensitive.
- Professional teeth whitening produces predictable results because your dentist customizes your treatment.
- A cosmetic dentist will ensure your teeth are in good shape to receive whitening before you begin.
Don’t put your smile at risk of serious damage by choosing a less expensive option. Take a safer route and whiten your smile with a trusted professional.
About the Author
Dr. Udoka Holinbeck is a holistic dentist who offers cosmetic dentistry to patients seeking a more aesthetically stunning smile. Using take-home teeth whitening, she and her team provide custom trays and high-grade bleaching gel that can lighten smiles by several shades in just two weeks. Want a whiter set of teeth in less time? Visit our website or call (262) 746-7152 to schedule a consultation.