We all want brighter smiles. Many of us will try whatever is most accessible and affordable to achieve this result; this often means homemade or over the counter (OTC) remedies. And most of the time, these methods are effective, easy to use, and safe. But there are a few trends you should stay away from. Below we discuss and differentiate between the most popular teeth whitening methods.
Teeth Whitening and Oral Well-Being
Our teeth are not the only part of our mouths to consider when looking into different whitening products and agents.
Whitening Pens
Any product that makes it harder to apply to the teeth without “coloring outside the lines,” is a potential risk to your gums.
Gums play the vital role of keeping our teeth soundly in our mouth. Unhealthy gums can also cause discomfort when eating certain foods and be a source for bad breath. Be sure to use approved products and follow the given instructions to ensure the best results. If you’re not sure that the whitening pen you’re using is approved, talk to your dentist or dental hygienist.
Bleaching Agents
Not all tooth bleaching agents are the same. So, when using a bleach-based teeth whitening product make sure to check your labels for American Dental Association (ADA) approval. Peroxide on your gums, or used for too long or applied incorrectly, spells trouble; and not just for your gums, either. If you have any cracks or cavities, bleach could seep into that space and cause a lot of pain at the site.
Enamel Damage
Enamel is your body’s toughest substance, but it is not impermeable to damage. The wrong kind of abrasive cleaner can eventually wear it down enough to cause decay and cavities. The most immediate sign of enamel damage is tooth sensitivity. Many readily available products make use of abrasive substances that you should not use. If you’re not sure which products you should be using, always consult with your dentist or dental hygienist.
Whitening Toothpastes
Make sure that any toothpaste or product you use does not include abrasive particles. The easiest way to do this is check that it carries the right ADA seal. If you’re still not convinced, talk to your dentist about all the ingredients.
Baking Soda
One of the oldest methods used for whitening and removing stains from teeth is brushing with baking soda. While this practice may be okay in small doses, baking soda is very abrasive so regular use over the long term is ill-advised.
Charcoal
The world has fallen in love with charcoal and its potential whitening properties. However, when it comes to using this regularly as a means of whitening your teeth, you’re risking irreparably damaging your enamel as charcoal is abrasive. Not only that, its effectiveness for direct oral use has not been established by the ADA and its long-term side effects are also suggestive of more staining.
What Can You Safely Do For a Whiter Smile?
The most beneficial thing you can do is treat your teeth well is to always brush and floss after eating, and especially after eating highly acidic foods. In the long run, if you’re not properly taking care of your teeth, it can be costly to repair. It really is worth it to prevent teeth stains in the first place.
If you want a whiter, healthier smile that you can be proud of, call a professional, like those at Eriks Dental Group in Boynton Beach today at 561-733-4004. We offer a free consultation around a tooth whitening solution that fits all your needs.