We all wish for whiter teeth to flash our pretty smiles at people. Doing it properly at a dentist can be expensive and
this has led to cost-effective DIY teeth whitening kits and accessories available at any local drugstore or pharmacy. These include bleaches, whitening strips, specialized toothpaste, and rinses and mouthwashes targeted specifically for whitening teeth. People in general are flocking to these kits for their teeth-whitening solutions. However, there exists a nasty side that escapes notice.
Common mistakes which are overlooked
Teeth stains can occur due to several reasons and whitening may not always be the answer. Efforts, nevertheless, have not diminished especially with do-it-yourself kits, but the process is susceptible to a lot of mistakes.
Professional consultation:
Dentist consultation is usually overlooked. Stained teeth may always not be a general accumulation of plaque and contaminants – it can be a sign of decaying or damaged teeth, gum disease, and a host of other problems that can’t be solved with whitening. It is best advised to consult a dentist before carrying out plans as there may be other factors contributing to stained teeth and treating them specifically is the best bet.
Limited use of organic whitening mixtures:
The use of baking soda mixtures can be effective for removing plaque temporarily but proves problematic if discoloration occurs under the enamel. Use of these mixtures can also be destructive in the long run requiring complete dental overhauls. In some cases, they can also cause increased sensitivity in teeth and general discomfort. If used regularly for a prolonged period of time, it can damage your enamel severely.
Using whitening strips:
Strips are most commonly used for whitening stained teeth. However, they come with limits because the chemicals used are not always good for the teeth. In several cases, it can cause enamel degradation, burning gums, and infections in the oral cavity. If used improperly it may result in uneven whitening and heightened sensitivity. It is essential that usage directions are followed to the letter to avoid such problems. Mostly, leaving them too long and using them too frequently are commonly faced problems that lead to uneven splotches of white, hypersensitive teeth, and typical gum diseases.
Dental cleaning products:
Mouth rinses are also popular in their use in whitening teeth. They generally have a higher-than-normal alcohol content which may end up being harmful to other parts of the mouth. It is positively wiser to refrain from spending excessively on teeth whitening mouthwashes and rinses. They usually contribute to more harm than good. Using FDA-approved products is also a bonus as they are least probable to cause dental problems.
Improper use of trays:
Consulting a dentist for your teeth whitening solution is the best method as the dentist can customize a tray to the proper specifications. However, commercially available whitening trays that can be applied generally is popular with the do-it-yourself community. However, it comes with its fair share of problems that make it unsavory. The bleaching can lead to chemical burns on the gums if used improperly and if it’s not compatible with your dental condition.
With DIY teeth whitening, a lot of clinic expenses can be saved, however, user discretion is advised and a level of care should be taken to ensure the above problems are avoided. It is still the best option to consult with a dentist before opting for teeth whitening.
