Have your teeth gradually become more and more discolored? Luckily, the yellow tinge doesn’t have to become the new norm. While professional teeth whitening is reliable, safe, and quick, many patients find themselves opting for over-the-counter alternatives. While the products are heavily diluted, it is still possible to damage your smile if you use them too often. Keep reading to learn what to look for and why consulting with a professional is so important.
So, What Happens If You Use Store-Bought Whitening Kits too Often?
Even though store-bought whitening kits use one-size-fits-all trays and diluted brighteners, it is still important to follow the instructions on the label. If you bypass them in an attempt to achieve your smile goals faster, you may negatively impact your oral health in the process. The two most common issues? Tooth sensitivity and gum irritation. To prevent these unpleasant symptoms from arising, make sure to read the directions thoroughly beforehand.
Why Consulting with a Professional Is Important
One downside of over-the-counter whitening kits that patients often neglect to consider is that the state of your current oral health isn’t taken into account. This is an incredibly important factor though! Dentists conduct a thorough oral exam before determining if a patient is a candidate for teeth whitening to make sure a serious dental problem, like tooth decay or gum disease, isn’t present. These issues not only will negatively impact your results, but they can also lead to increased sensitivity and serious damage. For this reason, it’s of the utmost importance that you consult with your dentist first.
What to Look for in At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits
If you and your dentist decide that an over-the-counter product is most ideal, then there are a few things you should look for when you’re at the store:
- Bleach concentrations – The kit you pick shouldn’t have a concentration of bleach higher than 10%.
- Check out the tray – Does the size of the tray come up over your gums? Then it’s not the best product for you. Try to find one that covers just your teeth.
- ADA Seal of Approval – Products with the ADA Seal of Approval have undergone rigorous testing and are safe for use.
If you’ve been missing your bright, white teeth, don’t fret – the stains don’t have to be permanent. Consult with your dentist to determine if a store-bought option will work for your dental needs. If not, ask them about an in-office alternative!
About the Practice
At Super Dental of Fitchburg, we’ve seen firsthand how stubborn dental discoloration can take a toll on someone’s confidence. That’s why we are proud to offer safe, effective, and quick in-office teeth whitening treatments. Plus, with our take-home options, you can blast away unsightly stains from the comfort of your own home (but with the benefit of having a dentist supervising your treatment). If you have a question about teeth whitening or would like to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to visit our website or call (978) 342-8500.