The internet is abuzz with posts on DIY teeth whitening. These “hacks” promise Hollywood-worthy smiles with store-bought kits or everyday items in your kitchen. However, taking this dental procedure into your own inexperienced hands can actually do more harm than good. Read on to learn why it’s best to leave teeth whitening to white-coat professionals.
- Some DIY Methods Are Abrasive. Methods like rubbing hydrogen peroxide or baking soda on your teeth may seem like an easy fix, but they can be too harsh on your precious enamel. Using abrasives too often can permanently thin your enamel, exposing your teeth to sensitivity and decay
- Some DIY Methods are Ineffective or Have Temporary Results. Other teeth whitening options, like lemon juice or whitening strips, normally lack enough kick to effectively whiten your teeth. The acidity may superficially whiten for a day or so, but it does so by eating away at your enamel.
- You’re More Likely to Make Errors. Over-application errors can potentially burn your gums, tongue or inner cheeks. Furthermore, ill-fitted trays and whitening strips run the risk of uneven teeth whitening.
- Risk of Addiction. Like a drug, the desire for ever-whiter teeth combined with easy access to at-home applications can spiral out of hand into unhealthy whitening addictions. This stokes further enamel erosion and high sensitivity requiring restorative work
If teeth whitening is something you’re seriously considering, we recommend scheduling a dental appointment to discuss your treatment options. A professional consultation and procedure will benefit you in several ways, including:
- Having realistic expectations of your teeth whitening results
- Effective tools and whitening techniques that are safe for you
- Long-lasting results
- Quality control of the teeth whitening procedure, with follow-up consultations to monitor your progress
For more information on safe and effective teeth whitening, contact us at Dental Oasis of Clayton today.