A Cosmetic Dentist Talks about Why You Should Not Whiten Teeth at Home

Teeth whitening kits are available for purchase at supermarkets, pharmacies, and online, and many patients assume these kits are equivalent to the teeth whitening provided by a qualified cosmetic dentist. However, as professionals who have completed dental school as well as extensive training in shaping, whitening, and upgrading patients’ entire smiles, cosmetic dentists are able to provide affordable, high-quality whitening that is less likely to cause additional dental issues that could be easily avoided.

What problems can at-home whitening cause?

Though teeth whitening is a noninvasive dental procedure, at-home kits, even when used by the average healthy patient, can come with risks and side effects. Tooth sensitivity, adverse reactions to dubious ingredients, and a poorly done or inconsistent job of teeth whitening can result. Those with other dental or medical concerns could be at additional risk for developing adverse effects from at-home teeth whitening treatment. Unfortunately, some patients may not understand why seeking the help of a cosmetic dentist is a better decision than whitening at home.

Tooth and gum sensitivity and pain

Store-bought products may contain abrasive substances like hydrogen peroxide, which can be effective if used minimally, but in large doses can cause erosion of teeth’s enamel and shrinkage of the gums. If used over time and without the aid of a professional cosmetic dentist, this treatment could cause tooth sensitivity and at times pain. The worst part for these patients is that by affecting the enamel and causing teeth to become more sensitive overall, the teeth are then primed to become even more stained over time! If these patients then whiten again, they will simply start a cycle of stained teeth, sensitivity, and pain that cannot be easily broken.

Reactions to harmful or unknown ingredients

The most well-known teeth whitening kits, from brand names patients likely recognize, contain tested ingredients that are unlikely to cause long-term damage to patients’ teeth beyond tooth sensitivity. However, various places on the internet purport using substances as varied as coconut oil, baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and even bleach to whiten teeth. Though some of these options may be harmless if ineffective, certain ingredients can be understandably dangerous for even the healthiest patients.

Why should a patient visit a cosmetic dentist for whitening?

Though teeth whitening is a cosmetic service a patient may try to perform at home, it can be compared to visiting a licensed cosmetologist to highlight hair. These professionals have trained specifically for this cosmetic procedure, so it is a better decision for patients, especially those who have additional medical concerns or other dental conditions, to visit a dentist instead of buying an over-the-counter whitening kit.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp:
Cosmetic Dentist in McLean, VA

Conclusion

While many patients may consider at-home treatments to make their smiles brighter, for quick and effective teeth whitening, go to a qualified cosmetic dentist. Finding a licensed dentist to perform any cosmetic maintenance needs you may have will keep your teeth and gums healthy for years to come.

Request an appointment or call Oak Tree Dental at 703-763-5239 for an appointment in our McLean office.

Recent Posts

Cosmetic Dentist Services For A Brighter, Healthier Smile

A cosmetic dentist can help you achieve whiter, healthier teeth. The right type of cosmetic dental service or services can rejuvenate your smile. Knowing the different procedures that can help improve your teeth and gums can prepare you for your next appointment. Here are the treatments you can get from your cosmetic dentist if you…

What You Need To Know About Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry refers to dental procedures intended to enhance the appearance of your teeth. While most of these procedures are nonessential, they can offer a variety of health benefits as well. The field, once primarily reserved for celebrities and wealthy individuals, has become much more mainstream, offering a number of desirable and accessible procedures.The word…

General Vs. Cosmetic Dentist: Which Is The Better Option

If you need a specific dental procedure done or are looking for a new provider to take care of your smile, it is important to understand whether a general dentist or cosmetic dentist is the right professional for the needed services. While both types of dentists are required to have achieved a doctor of dental…

Oak Tree Dental

Share
Published by
Oak Tree Dental

Recent Posts

Common Questions About Dental Implants

Dental implants are a popular and effective treatment option for missing teeth. However, it can…

7 days ago

Tooth Colored Fillings FAQs

Having tooth-colored fillings is always better than amalgam fillings. Switching to these natural-looking fillings will…

7 days ago

What You Need to Know About Dental Implants

As a patient considering dental implants, there are some important things that you need to…

2 weeks ago

The Benefits of Choosing Dental Implants Over Dentures

Getting dental implants as a replacement for removable dentures can be a rewarding move. These…

3 weeks ago

Understanding the Dental Implant Process

Dental implants replace missing teeth and help with chewing, speaking, and smiling. They can consist…

4 weeks ago

The Process of Getting a Dental Implant After a Tooth Extraction

Most people want to have dental implants right after dental extraction. Replacing the lost tooth…

1 month ago