3 Facts You Should Know Before Using An Over-The-Counter Treatment To Whiten Your Teeth
If you are unhappy with the yellow or stained appearance of your teeth, it is easy to assume that the kits you buy at your local grocery or drug store are as useful as the treatments a dentist, such as Olson, Brant N DDS PA, can provide. Unfortunately, that is not always true. More than one person has been unhappy to discover that they have overly sensitive gums or inadequately whitened teeth after numerous home bleaching applications. In addition, it is also important to note that if you have any cavities or decay on your teeth, the likelihood of experiencing those unfortunate side effects is significant. Therefore, before you toss in one or more of the over-the-counter bleaching or whitening kits into your shopping basket, it is a good idea to talk with your dentist about the following concerns.
#1-It Is Rarely Advised To Bleach Your Teeth If You Have Gum Disease Or Dental Problems
If you are like many Americans, including children and teenagers, you occasionally suffer from bleeding or swollen gums. Those issues are two common symptoms of gingivitis, which is also known as gum disease. In addition, it is estimated that more than one out of four Americans will have at least one untreated cavity at any given time.
Unfortunately, both of those dental health challenges can result in increased sensitivity or even pain as the result of any whitening treatment. As a result, you should plan to consult with your dentist about addressing those issues before submitting to either an OTC or professional whitening treatment.
#2-OTC Treatments Will Never Be As Effective As the Methods Your Dentist Can Offer
It is a good idea to remember that your dentist will have access to methods other than bleaching that can whiten your teeth faster and allow them to maintain their hue for a longer period of time. For instance, laser treatments in the office will frequently use a tray similar to the ones available to the public.
They are typically superior to over-the -counter treatments, which are also referred to as OTC treatments. because the laser activates the solution within the dental trays that you wear. In comparison, the bleaching treatments that you use at home typically use only whitening chemicals. While you will probably notice some improvement to the color of your teeth after using an at-home treatment, it will usually be less than the benefit your dentist can provide.
#3-It's Important To Only Use At-Home Kits For The Recommended Amount Of Time And Frequency
Whether you are delaying professional treatments due to a lack of time, financial means or another reason entirely, one of the more common mistakes that you can make is to keep the solution, trays or both on your teeth for longer than the box or your dentist recommends. Another unfortunate error involves doing your treatments too close together.
Both can result in overly sensitive uncomfortable teeth and gums, even if you have a healthy mouth. If you need the fastest possible result, you are more likely to get it from professional treatments with your dentist. Otherwise, always double-check the directions on the packaging and be sure to avoid using similar whitening treatments within a small period of time.
Therefore, plan to check the active ingredients on any products you use, including, but not limited to :
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Toothpaste
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Mouthwash
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Dental paint
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Dental trays
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Strips
In conclusion,over-the-counter bleaching treatments are a popular method to temporarily whiten your teeth. However, there are possible side effects that you should consider and it is a good idea to discuss the above information with your dentist before spending any money on home whitening kits that might not be appropriate for your needs.
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