We live in an increasingly do-it-yourself world. From home renovations to handmade crafts, there’s a certain pride you get from doing it yourself. But sometimes that project you thought would be easy to do on your own can go from DIY to DOA. Take teeth whitening for example. Sure, whitening your teeth at home with a so-called “safe” home remedy or over-the-counter whitening kit may seem like a good idea, but it can actually cause more harm than good. Here’s why if you want whiter teeth, you should leave it in the capable hands of your dentist.
All Natural Whitening Woes
There are many products on the market that claim to be better for you because they’re all natural. One product that comes to mind is charcoal toothpaste. Due to its abrasive nature, charcoal toothpaste can lift some stains from your teeth just by brushing, however, that doesn’t make it safe. In fact, charcoal toothpaste is so abrasive that it can permanently scratch your tooth enamel and damage your teeth!
Another home remedy making the rounds is baking soda, which can also lift some stains but scratch your enamel. Lemon juice is also touted as an all-natural whitener, but due to its high acidity, it can also permanently damage your porous enamel.
Get Over the Over-The-Counter Kits
Over-the-counter whitening kits are not ADA approved, and for good reasons. While it may seem empowering to go it alone and try white strips or trays from your local big box store, you are taking a risk by doing so. If your teeth are not in good condition, these kits can cause pain or sensitivity that could require an emergency trip to the dentist. So much for doing it yourself!
Furthermore, at-home products like pens, strips, and gels can also cause uneven results if not done correctly. This can cause your teeth to have noticeable variations in color, especially between them or around the edges.
Whiten Like a Pro
The only way to get that professional, fresh-from-the-dentist look is to do just that: go to the dentist. Following a successful exam, your dentist can provide you with a safe, effective at-home bleach kit, or you may opt for an in-office whitening procedure that can lift several shades in about an hour.
Don’t go it alone. When it comes to getting a whiter, brighter smile, trust your dentist to help you achieve the smile of your dreams!
About Dr. Franzen
Dr. Barry R. Franzen has been practicing dentistry since 1985. In his nearly 40-year career, Dr. Franzen has helped generations of patients by expanding his vast knowledge of dentistry, something he continues to this day.
Dr. Franzen is a Member of the American Dental Association, the Wisconsin Dental Association, and the American Academy of Prosthodontics, just to name a few. To schedule an appointment for a restoration, general checkup, or any type of cosmetic procedure including teeth whitening, please visit our website or call 414-543-5432.