Do you have dental stains that make you feel so self-conscious that you avoid spending time with others? One of the first things others notice about you is the quality of your smile, and if you’re not confident in your appearance, you might be overly worried about being judged.
Many people turn to at-home remedies to whiten their teeth, but unfortunately, these well-intended methods have less-than-desirable consequences. Continue reading to learn about 3 potential problems that can occur and why it’s better to visit your dentist to brighten your grin!
Concern #1: Sensitivity
Although enamel is the hardest substance produced by the human body, that doesn’t make it invincible. The protective outer layer of your teeth is susceptible to acid damage from the foods you eat. Anything with a pH value below 5.5 is considered risky because it can erode the enamel, increasing your likelihood of developing cavities, chips, cracks, or other injuries. Not only that, but as more of the lower layers of your teeth are exposed, you can develop sensitivity, especially when eating anything super hot or cold.
Unfortunately, some at-home tips for whitening involve foods with high acidity levels that can harm your dental health. For instance, rubbing lemon juice on them might temporarily bleach surface stains, but it etches your enamel, leaving you more likely to develop problems in the long run.
Concern #2: Gum Irritation
Swollen or aching gums can also result from trying to lighten your teeth with at-home or over-the-counter solutions. For instance, many store-bought whitening kits contain one-size-fits-all applicator trays or strips that can leave plenty of room for error. This might trigger an inflammation response that can be both painful and frustrating.
Not only that, but it’s possible to have periodontal problems and not know. If your connective tissues are already infected, swollen, or sore, placing commercial-grade bleach on them can potentially exacerbate your discomfort.
Concern #3: Uneven Results
Not only can you harm your teeth and gums using at-home remedies or over-the-counter whitening treatments, but you might not even be able to achieve the desired results! For instance, store-bought whitening strips and trays that don’t fit might leave dark rings around your teeth where the gel didn’t reach. This can result in a patchy or unnatural hue that further detracts from your appearance.
Meanwhile, your dentist uses professional-strength bleaches designed to mitigate potential sensitivity. Plus, they utilize custom-fitted applicator trays for accurate results intended to last. With their help, you can safely brighten your smile to improve your appearance!
Meet the Author
Dr. Mike Rudolph has more than 30 years of experience helping people of all ages improve their lives by enhancing their oral health. He earned his dental degree from the Maryland School of Dentistry and has continued to develop skills with training in dental implants, restorations, and cosmetics. Today, he offers a comprehensive menu of services at one convenient location to meet all your family’s needs, including in-office and take-home teeth whitening treatments. If you want to upgrade your grin safely, you can request an appointment on the website or by calling (574) 269-1787.