Tips from a Sauganash Area Dentist: How to Safely Whiten Your Teeth at Home
The teeth whitening industry is booming. Everybody wants to brighten their smiles, and there are now more options than ever before—from professional options at the dentist’s office, to over-the-counter toothpaste, to whitening strips, and other products. However, not all products are created equal, and some may have side-effects. So, how can you start a whitening routine at home and keep your teeth safe?
Have an Appointment with Your Sauganash Dentist First
The first step of the teeth whitening process, even if it will take place at home, is to visit a dentist and have a professional cleaning service and an exam. Your dentist will remove tartar and plaque, and also check for cavities and assess the overall health of your gums. When you have the go ahead, you can purchase over the counter tooth whitening products safely without having to worry about damaging your teeth or gums further. On top of that, your dentist can also recommend the best and safest products before you begin the tooth whitening process.
Picking the Right Product
Your dentist will likely explain this to you, and this is why it’s important to have excellent oral health before you start the tooth whitening products: at-home whiteners will usually contain chemicals known as peroxides in an amount that ranges anywhere from 10% to 20%. The ideal product will be somewhere in the middle of that range, where it is not too corrosive, but still remains effective. If you have sensitive teeth, however, make sure you discuss the subject with your dentist in order to be safe with your product choice.
Make Sure to Follow the Product Directions
Most products will have a set of instructions on how to use them safely. For example, if you are using whitening strips or a gel product, you will have a set limit of application time. If you go past that time and leave the product on for longer than instructed, you might damage your gums and the enamel of the teeth. You might also be instructed to avoid certain drinks or foods that have a high level of acidity for a few hours after using the whitener.
When to Avoid Tooth Whitening Products
It is generally recommended that pregnant women and nursing mothers do not use whiteners. It is also important to note that composite or porcelain fillings and dental crowns will not lighten up in appearance, so if you do use a whitening product, the color of the teeth around these implants will be lighter. As a result, you may want to replace the crowns/fillings to better match the rest of your teeth.
After the product is applied, your teeth may become more sensitive for a short duration. This effect may be less noticeable if you have very healthy teeth and gums. However, if the sensation is too strong, or if it continues for longer periods of time, you should stop the treatment and contact your dentist.
Whitening Done Right by a Sauganash Dentist
The best way to make sure that you do not damage your teeth and gums while whitening them at home is by consulting your dentist before you start the treatment. This way, your dentist will be able to recommend the best products and instruct you on how to use them. However, the most effective way to whiten your teeth is by having your dentist perform the procedure. Professional teeth whitening in Gladstone Park will yield whiter teeth than any over the counter products, and it will do so without causing any damage to your teeth and gums. If you would like to know more about this service, contact us today!