Although teeth come in many shades and tones naturally, you can’t put a price on the benefits of a bright, white smile. People often turn to over-the-counter whitening products to combat stains and discoloration. While there’s a huge market for whitening products, you might be disappointed with the results. There are many myths about OTC teeth whitening, but here are the facts you need to get your smile its whitest.
Myth: OTC Whitening Products are Safe
Just because a product is available over-the-counter doesn’t necessarily make it safe, like charcoal toothpaste. Many OTC products are abrasive or acidic, which can damage your enamel over time. Your enamel will not grow back once it has been lost. In addition, not everyone is a candidate for teeth whitening, and not all stains will respond to whitening treatments.
Myth: OTC Whitening Products are Effective
Although whitening products may claim to provide significant improvement in discoloration, you will not achieve any noticeable or lasting results. No OTC whitening products contain professional-strength whitening ingredients. Therefore, any improvement will be minimal and won’t last very long.
Myth: OTC Teeth Whitening Won’t Damage Your Enamel
It’s easy to overuse convenient whitening products in an effort to lift stains. This can damage your enamel, increasing your risk of sensitivity, cavities, and worsening discoloration.
Invest in Proven Results
You can invest in safe, lasting results with the help of your cosmetic dentist. You can benefit from in-office results using the convenience of a take-home whitening kit. Your dentist will examine your mouth to ensure it is healthy, which is necessary before using any whitening product.
They will determine the source of your discoloration to ensure teeth whitening can provide the results you want. Your cosmetic dentist will give you everything you need to brighten your smile at home. You will use the professional-grade whitening gel and custom-fit trays every day for about 2 weeks. Your teeth will get whiter gradually until they are about 8 shades brighter. Your dazzling smile can last for many months or years with the right aftercare, like brushing and flossing.
You only get one set of adult teeth. Don’t ruin them with over-the-counter whitening products. Instead, invest in the qualifications and experience of a cosmetic dentist. They’ll create the safe and personalized plan you need to revamp your pearly whites.
About Dr. Julie A. Cromer
Dr. Cromer earned her dental degree from the West Virginia University School of Dentistry and has continued her training in cosmetic dentistry and many other specialties. She is affiliated with the American Dental Association and the Florida Dental Association. Request an appointment through her website or call her office at (772) 227-1303.