You’ve always wanted to try whitening your teeth but thought it’s too expensive (not anymore! – keep reading).
Everywhere you look, there’s a new DIY hack or whitening pen that promises quick and easy results. They almost seem too good to be true. Brush my teeth with charcoal? Swish oils in my mouth for 30 seconds, and my teeth will be white as snow??
These new fads can be tempting to try. But beware of all the hype, friend. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Teeth whitening done correctly can provide excellent results that last. You only get one set of permanent teeth in your life. Don’t risk damaging them with improper whitening.
Before you decide to whiten your teeth, there are five crucial things you need to know.
1) You can’t have any tooth decay or gum disease present
You can’t have tooth decay or gum disease present when you whiten your teeth. Here’s why.
If you have decay and gum disease present, whitening your teeth could make these conditions worse and irritate your teeth and gums. And you won’t get optimal results.
Make sure to see your dentist so we can check for and address any issues, and create a plan for success to whiten your teeth safely and effectively.
2) Not everyone would benefit from teeth whitening.
If you have sensitive teeth, it’s not recommended to whiten your teeth as this may cause pain and make the sensitivity worse.
If your enamel is worn or you have internal tooth discoloration due to medications, trauma, or tooth formation issues, teeth whitening will not benefit you.
There are better aesthetic solutions for these conditions that your dentist can discuss with you.
3) Beware of whitening your teeth with diy fads.
Teeth whitening DIY hacks have been growing in popularity. But be aware that some of these quick fixes can damage your teeth.
There are lots of home remedies for whitening teeth such as lemon juice, vinegar, and baking soda that claim to whiten teeth.
While these are accepted as natural ways to clean kitchen counters and floors, they can cause damage to the delicate enamel of your teeth. This can lead to cavities and may cause teeth to become darker.
4) Stick with safe, proven ways to whiten your teeth
The most important thing is flossing and brushing your teeth every day with an ADA (American Dental Association) approved toothpaste that protects your enamel. You can also use a whitening toothpaste or that is ADA approved.
See your dentist so we can recommend the safest teeth whitening options that protect your teeth and provide lasting results.
5) Use with care
You never want to overdo it when it comes to whitening your teeth. Using whitening products more frequently than is recommended can cause the enamel to thin out over time.
If you’re whitening at home, you want to make sure the whitening gel is applied directly onto your teeth. It is recommended to use custom bleaching trays that fit perfectly over your teeth for a stable and tight seal. This keeps the whitening gel on your teeth and prevents it from spreading onto your gums, which can irritate them and even bleach them.
At Thrive Dental & Orthodontics, we provide complimentary custom whitening trays and professional whitening gel for our patients. So we’ve got all your whitening needs covered.
Everyone is hopping onto the teeth whitening bandwagon these days.
But some of these products may not be approved by the ADA (American Dental Association) with long-term studies to ensure these products won’t damage your enamel. And these unregulated products often contain harsh chemicals and additives that erode enamel.
The next step
Want to learn more about the best teeth whitening treatment and products? Check out our blog post: Teeth Whitening at Home vs. At the Dentist, where you’ll learn everything you need to know about what is the best type of teeth whitening for you.
In conclusion
Before trying any whitening at home, be careful, and do your research. Do not fall prey to all the trendy fads and gimmicks out there that can do more harm to your teeth than good. Stick with dental and whitening products that have the ADA seal of approval.
The solution to all of these potential risks is to come to see your dentist first and foremost. We’ll guide you safely through your teeth whitening journey for proven, optimal results. This way, you won’t have any regrets!
And, lucky for you, at Thrive, we offer Complimentary whitening (a limited time offer) for our patients! So call us or book your appointment today and get those pearly whites you’ve always wanted 😉
by Dr. Christine Coughlin DDS
