You may have stains on your smile that you want to get rid of. It’s easy to go online and see many over-the-counter products that promise the results you want. However, as you use them, you might not get the dramatic transformation you thought of. While you may want to apply them until you get to a bright grin, you should hold off. It’s easy to overuse them and harm your teeth. Here’s what to know and a safer alternative to go for.
Why Is It Bad to Whiten My Teeth Too Often?
Store-bought whitening products have weak bleaching agents in them. They oftentimes have a low concentration, so using them for a couple of weeks consistently might only give you a shade or two difference. You might think using the item for longer can be fruitful, but you may be doing harm and end up with weaker enamel.
When used improperly, these products can erode the top layer of your teeth. This exposes the dentin underneath, which can trigger sensitivity to hot, cold, and overly sweet foods. Not only that, but this part of your tooth is also naturally yellow, so you may start to see that color peek through as well.
You also won’t be able to customize your results or kit. Every smile is unique, so the one-size-fits-all option that over-the-counter products offer may not work for you. The bleaching agents are more likely to sit on your gums, leading to irritation.
How Can I Get to a Whiter Smile Safely?
Since heading to your local department store may not be the best idea for a brighter grin you love, you may wonder what you can do instead. Thankfully, your dentist offers an effective and reliable whitening treatment that you can get!
Your provider has access to high-quality bleaching gels that are not only safer but can be tailored to your level of stains. By going to them for an in-office service, they can protect your gums and apply the product to your teeth. They’ll check back occasionally, ensuring your enamel stays strong and healthy. After about an hour, you can get up to an eight-shade difference!
If a take-home kit is more convenient, then you can get one from them as well. You will be given a custom set of trays that reduces the odds of the bleaching gel getting on your gums. Your dentist will tell you how long to wear them at any given time and how often to do it. After about two weeks, you can get similar results as if you were in the office. That way, you can’t misuse them and make sure your smile is comfortable in the end.
About the Author
Dr. Anh Vo earned his dental degree from the Texas A&M College of Dentistry. He has taken over 150 hours of continuing education every year, using some of that for cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Vo is proud to offer professional teeth whitening, helping you get to your dream grin without the discomfort store-bought products often cause. If you want to get bright results that help you look and feel great, schedule an appointment or call his office at (469) 890-1199.