It’s easy to become enticed by the promises many companies make when selling teeth whitening products. While looking through the aisles, you’ll find low prices and “fast results” marketed on virtually every store-bought product, but what you may not realize is how risky they can be if used too frequently. Keep reading to learn what problems can arise and why seeing a professional for brighter teeth is the best way to go.
What Makes Store-Bought Teeth Whitening Risky?
Whether it is strips, gels, whitening pens, or trays, store-bought whitening products come in all shapes and sizes. Combine it with an attractive price tag, and it should come as no surprise that consumers are eager to buy anything that promises to work miracles on yellow or stained teeth.
Unfortunately, while minor surface stains may show some improvement, the results are often lackluster, leaving many individuals to purchase more products in the hope that something will eventually work.
This continued use of mediocre products often leads to worn-down tooth enamel and increased sensitivity, both of which can have lasting effects on one’s smile. Other possible issues that can form include:
- New discoloration, as the dentin layer becomes thinner, allows deep-down stains to show through
- Gum irritation because of the one-size-fits-all approach to store-bought strips and trays
- Enamel erosion caused by DIY solutions such as activated charcoal, baking soda, and lemon juice
- Uneven whitening because store-bought products are not customized to your teeth
- Low-grade whitening gel that cannot reach the intrinsic stains beneath the surface, resulting in more whitening products being used
Why Professional Teeth Whitening is Best
Although you are likely to spend more money upfront on professional teeth whitening, you will actually save in the long run. Allowing a professional who is trained to administer this type of treatment will ensure that you receive predictable results and maintain a healthier smile.
The professional-grade bleaching gel is designed to remove stains above and below the surface, all while remaining on teeth and not seeping onto your gums. Not to mention, the chances of tooth sensitivity are significantly reduced when entrusting your smile to a dental expert who knows what they’re doing.
Besides, the investment you make will be worth it because you won’t need to spend hundreds of dollars on more products. Instead, simple touch-ups at home can be all you need to keep your smile looking its best.
About the Author
Dr. L. Blaine Kennington opened his own practice in 2002 and has been helping the city’s residents achieve healthier, more aesthetically pleasing smiles ever since. He and the team at Cowlitz River Dental are happy to provide cosmetic dentistry treatments designed to enhance teeth by blasting away stains and discoloration. With in-office or take-home professional teeth whitening solutions, you can trust that your smile will be photo-ready for your big event. Visit our website or call (360) 703-9092 to learn how we can help you take advantage of available whitening treatment at our Castle Rock office.