Teeth chew through a lot of material over several decades of use, and frequent exposure to many foods and beverages that are high in pigments and dyes can leave unsightly dental stains or discoloration. While there is a wide variety of teeth whitening treatments available, some of them can lead to undesirable results or even injuries due to user error, poor manufacturing, or simply being a bad idea to begin with. Here’s a brief guide to why you should consult with your dentist before investing in any teeth whitening treatment.
Why Should I Discuss Teeth Whitening with My Dentist?
Almost everyone would like a whiter smile or to get rid of a few unsightly stains, and there are many teeth whitening treatments for sale on store shelves. Unfortunately, many over-the-counter teeth whitening products can produce lackluster results due to weak whitening agents, and some of them can even bleach the teeth unevenly or expose the vulnerable gums to harsh chemicals.
If you’re looking to social media influencers for teeth whitening ideas, it’s important to remember that few if any of them are qualified dental professionals. A few at-home teeth whitening methods peddled online include using lemon juice or abrasive substances like charcoal or baking soda to remove stains. While these techniques may leave your teeth whiter, they will do so by destroying healthy enamel and leaving your smile more vulnerable to injury and decay.
How Can My Dentist Help Me Find an Effective Whitening Treatment?
Consulting with your dentist about teeth whitening will allow you to receive an educated and qualified opinion about the best method. Your dentist may recommend a particular brand of teeth whitening product that they believe to be safe and effective. However, the best way to whiten your teeth is through professional treatment at your dentist’s office. This can come in the form of an in-office procedure that takes about an hour or a take-home kit that can be finished in two weeks. Either way, your teeth will be up to eight shades whiter.
Don’t let ill-informed teeth whitening methods harm your smile or cause discomfort. Consulting with your dentist can help you find the best whitening treatment for you.
About the Author
Dr. Cedric Chenet earned his dental degree at Howard University before serving as a dental officer in the U.S. Air Force. He has received hands-on postgraduate training a wide range of disciplines such as periodontics, endodontics, and pediatric dentistry. His office in Viera offers general, restorative, emergency, and cosmetic dentistry such as teeth whitening. To schedule your cosmetic dental consultation, contact his office online or dial (321) 253-3136.