
How Does Teeth Whitening Work? Is It Safe For…
A bright white smile can leave you feeling a lot more confident. If your teeth are yellower than you would like them to be, you might be curious about some of the whitening methods out there. However, you probably have a few questions you’ll want answers to before you start whitening your teeth. How does teeth whitening work? Is it safe, or will it damage your teeth?
If you take the time to learn more about the various methods of teeth whitening — and some of the risks associated with it — you’ll be able to find your best path to a brighter smile.
There Are All Kinds Of Whitening Products On The Market
From bleach strips to whitening kits, there are all kinds of over-the-counter whitening products available. These products often use strong ingredients like hydrogen peroxide to lighten teeth. However, one of the ingredients most commonly used in professional whitening treatments, carbamide peroxide, is absent from over-the-counter options.
The quality of these products varies wildly, which is why it’s best to read reviews before purchasing any product. It’s also wise to look for products that have the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance. These products have been evaluated by professionals and are safer for your teeth.
The Risks Of Teeth Whitening
There are a number of risks associated with teeth whitening, and it’s important to be aware of these pitfalls before applying any products to your teeth. One of the most common side effects people experience after whitening their teeth is increased sensitivity. This may make it difficult to eat hot or cold foods.
Another common risk is gum irritation. While whitening products are designed to be applied to the teeth, they aren’t designed to be safely applied to the gums. It’s easy to slip up and place some products on your gum, which can cause pain, discomfort, and even lesions.
It’s particularly dangerous to use these kinds of products if you have serious dental issues. If you haven’t seen a dentist in a long time, you’ll want to do that before trying any sort of whitening.
There Are Plenty Of Natural Ways To Whiten Your Teeth
If you’re apprehensive about harsh whitening kits, you should know that there are a lot of natural teeth whitening methods. While the success of these methods varies from one person to the next, they’re a low-risk option you should absolutely try out.
From brushing your teeth with baking soda to oil pulling, there are so many simple and effective ways to make your teeth look a little bit whiter. There are even fruits, like strawberries, that have naturally whitening capabilities. Take a look in your cupboards and see if there are any products you can use to whiter teeth.
Try A Different Toothpaste
One of the most important ways of achieving and maintaining a white and healthy smile is to brush and floss your teeth daily. If you use a toothpaste that was designed with whitening in mind, you should see some impressive results.
Toothpaste with baking soda is a safe bet if you’re hoping to lighten your teeth. In recent years, charcoal toothpaste has been getting a lot of positive attention. The toothpaste is black, which makes it a little strange to use, but it’s a fantastic way to whiten your smile without harming your teeth or your gums.
It’s Best To Talk To A Dentist About Teeth Whitening
If you want a brighter smile, but have concerns about harming your teeth and gums, speaking with your dentist is the best option. It’s becoming increasingly common for dentists to offer whitening treatments in the office. Professional whitening yields more dramatic results, and you can trust your dentist to take precautions to keep your teeth safe.
This doesn’t mean that you have to avoid at-home whitening treatments. If you get a clean bill of health from your dentist, you should be able to whiten your teeth with minimal issues. With that said, speaking with your dentist can give you essential information that will help you decide what to do next.
Don’t be afraid to ask a few questions before you start whitening your teeth. Even if a healthy-looking smile is your goal, you’ll want to make sure you don’t do anything that will damage your teeth or gums.