Almost everyone wishes they could show off a bright set of teeth. If you’re unhappy about the color of your smile, then you might be considering undergoing cosmetic dentistry. One of the most popular options is professional teeth whitening, which can improve the shade of your pearly whites relatively quickly. However, you might be tempted to opt for store-bought products due to their convenient prices. Unfortunately, DIY whitening methods tend to come with some real dangers to your smile. Read on to learn how the most common at-home teeth brightening methods can affect your oral health!
What Are the Common DIY Teeth Whitening Methods?
You may have seen plenty of videos and advertisements on Instagram and TikTok about whitening your smile from home. These products may include hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, activated charcoal, and even pure lemon juice. While many of these methods may sound compelling when it comes to removing years of stains off your teeth, you should remember that none of them are supported by scientific evidence. Since the American Dental Association doesn’t even consider these products safe for your teeth, you’ll want to think again before jumping on board with these trends.
The Real Dangers of DIY Teeth Whitening
Although non-approved teeth whitening products may seem to save you more time and money at first, they can actually risk damaging your smile. Many of them contain abrasive agents and harsh ingredients, which can result in enamel erosion and stain your teeth even further. Additionally, your weakened smile will be more susceptible to bacteria and damage that can lead to more serious concerns, like cavities. Not only will DIY whitening methods negatively affect the way your teeth appear, but they’ll also impact your oral health in the long run.
How Should I Brighten My Smile?
If you don’t like how your smile looks in the mirror, you should consult your dentist about it first. They’ll be able to evaluate your oral health and determine the best treatment to address any dental flaws you wish to fix. Unlike store-bought items, their teeth whitening options utilize professional-grade bleaching agents that are safe and can offer longer-lasting results. You can either choose to use an at-home whitening kit to gradually brighten your smile over a couple of weeks or undergo an in-office procedure that’ll take as little as an hour!
When it comes to improving your pearly whites, you don’t want any room for error. Speak with your dentist if you’re interested in whitening your smile, and they’ll be more than happy to discuss the safest options for your oral health.
About the Author
Dr. Priya Chougule received her dental doctorate from the University of Connecticut. She’s also a proud member of several prominent groups like the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. She provides a wide selection of high-quality services, including professional teeth whitening. If you’d like to schedule a consultation, visit her website or call 803-991-7045.