You Should Make Sure to Tell Us if You Whiten Your Teeth at Home
Posted on 2/20/2023 by Evan
We understand how important your smile is to your self-confidence and the impressions you make on those around you. Many Americans are self-conscious about the appearance of their smiles, which has turned teeth whitening into a multi-billion-dollar industry. With the variety of at-home whitening treatments available for purchase in stores and online, and their affordability compared to professional whitening services, it can be tempting to try to whiten your teeth at home with one of these over-the-counter options. But make sure you consult with us about home whitening treatments at your next checkup – ideally before you try them out.
Whitening Can Harm Your Oral Health
There is some evidence to suggest that hydrogen peroxide, the main bleaching agent found in most home whitening treatments, can damage the proteins in dentin, which is the layer of our teeth underneath the outer enamel. Hydrogen peroxide is abrasive, and it can be especially harmful to your teeth if you leave it on for longer than instructed. Some people might wear whitening strips or other home whitening products for longer than the directions state in the hopes that they will achieve better results. But the truth is, this can actually cause permanent damage to your teeth, so it is always safer to undergo whitening treatments at our office.
You Might Not Be a Good Candidate For Whitening
Not everyone is a good candidate for teeth whitening, which is why we always suggest consulting us before using an over-the-counter whitening product. People with sensitive teeth, those with bonding or fillings in their front teeth, patients with gum disease, or people whose enamel is already damaged should not have their teeth whitened. Additionally, if your teeth are discolored due to smoking, taking certain medications, or fluorosis, whitening treatments will likely not work for you. If you are interested in whitening your teeth, contact our office so we can discuss the best option for your needs.
We understand how important your smile is to your self-confidence and the impressions you make on those around you. Many Americans are self-conscious about the appearance of their smiles, which has turned teeth whitening into a multi-billion-dollar industry. With the variety of at-home whitening treatments available for purchase in stores and online, and their affordability compared to professional whitening services, it can be tempting to try to whiten your teeth at home with one of these over-the-counter options. But make sure you consult with us about home whitening treatments at your next checkup – ideally before you try them out.