You would be hard pressed to find a person who doesn’t desire to have a set of brightly gleaming white teeth. After all, the condition of your smile can make a lasting impression on the people you meet. To achieve a more attractive appearance, many people are turning to store-bought teeth whiteners. If misused, these products can pose some problems. Continue reading to learn about the possible dangers of generic teeth whitening and discover a better way to lift stubborn stains.
The Problems with Store-Bought Whiteners
If you’re looking to whiten your teeth in a more cost-effective manner, you have the option of buying a whitening kit or strips from a local retailer. It should be noted that these products don’t provide the same quality as the high-powered professional strength whitening agents offered by dentists.
This is partly for the safety of consumers. The highly concentrated whiteners provided by dentists require a great deal of skill to administer. Still, store-bought whiteners can pose their fair share of problems, including:
- Gum irritation – Retail teeth whitening kits come with one-size-fits-all application trays. This can allow the whitening agents to escape and irritate the soft tissue.
- Tooth damage – Because of the limited results that can be achieved with store-bought whiteners, many people are tempted to use excessive amounts to get a better outcome. This can result in enamel (the hard-outer layer of the teeth) damage.
- Tooth sensitivity – Teeth whitening temporarily weakens the enamel, which can lead to tooth sensitivity. Over usage of whitening agents can prevent enamel recovery and cause permanent damage.
Why It’s Easier to Go with Professional Teeth Whitening
When you have your teeth whitened by a dentist, you don’t have to worry about an inferior application or the risk of damaging your teeth and gums. Instead, you’ll be fitted with custom designed application trays that will ensure that no harm is done to your teeth and gums. Better yet, you’ll see faster results. In many cases, patients’ teeth are brightened by as much as eight shades.
With professional care, you also won’t run the risk of over application. Instead, the dentist will provide instructions about how to prolong your results, including tips for dental hygiene best practices, foods and beverages to avoid and scheduling suggestions for touch-ups.
Results without the Sacrifice
You shouldn’t have to choose between achieving the smile of your dreams and maintaining excellent oral health. By taking the safer approach to brightening your teeth, you can enjoy your rejuvenated new look well into the future!
About the Author
Dr. Shelly Strohman earned her dental degree from the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry. For well over a decade, she has been providing top-notch dental care to patients in the surrounding area. A member of the Texas Dental Association, 13th District Dental Society and other professional organizations, Dr. Strohman places an emphasis on safety when providing teeth whitening at Strohman Dental, and she can be reached for more information or to schedule a visit through her website.