As you scroll on social media, you may feel a bit envious of those you see with a bright smile. It’s a goal that many people want, and you’re just a search away from finding out how you can get it. You see video after video about do-it-yourself hacks or store-bought whitening products that some swear by, but are they safe? They may be more harmful than you initially realize, learn why and how your dentist can help you get an aesthetic grin without risking your oral health.
Why Are DIY or Store-Bought Products Harmful?
DIY methods of getting the pearly whites you want are damaging to your enamel. Many of them use baking soda, charcoal powder, or lemon juice as their main ingredient. However, these can be abrasive and thin your enamel. They do get rid of some surface stains, but it’s because they are wearing down the top layer, potentially leaving you with some sensitivity.
Store-bought products are a little safer for your smile, but they can irritate your mouth, and they often don’t provide the results you want. These kits are a one-size-fits-all, but every smile is different. The whitening ingredients are more likely to come into contact with your gums and irritate them. Additionally, they have a low concentration of the bleaching agent, meaning even after weeks of consistent use (as directed on the packaging), you may only see results that are one or two shades brighter.
Overusing either of these methods can be bad for your oral health. You can end up with weakened enamel, which often leads to sensitivity when eating hot, cold, or overly sweet foods and drinks. As this top outer layer is thinned, you may even see the yellow dentin underneath.
What Makes Professional Teeth Whitening Different?
The best and safest way to get the bright smile you dream of is to visit your dentist. Before you get a professional whitening treatment, your dentist ensures that your oral health is the best it can be. With a strong foundation, they use a high-quality bleaching gel that breaks down dark particles on and within your enamel, letting you have noticeable results you love.
Better yet, your dentist may offer an in-office or take-home kit. The former treatment is about an hour-long appointment that gives you a smile that’s six to eight shades brighter. The latter is custom-fitted trays with a professional-grade gel to get you similar results in about two weeks. Many people don’t experience any sensitivity afterward, as your dentist will check the health of your enamel during an in-office visit or send you home with detailed instructions on how long to wear the trays to protect your enamel.
Whitening your smile is something that many people want and do, but too much can be harmful to your oral health. Instead, consider a professional treatment to get noticeable results that keep your mouth happy and safe.
About the Author
Dr. Ahmad Hakwati earned his first dental degree from Damascus University and his second from the Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine. He has over a decade of experience helping people get smiles that they are proud of through cosmetic dental services.
By going to Dr. Hakwati for a professional teeth whitening treatment, you can trust that you get results you love while ensuring your comfort throughout the process. If you have dental stains you want to get rid of, schedule an appointment or call (978) 297-0675.