Teeth Whitening Woes: The Risks of DIY Solutions

One of the first things others notice about you is the quality of your smile, and if you’re feeling self-conscious about darkly tinted enamel, it’s natural to consider undergoing teeth whitening treatments that might help. Although there are many do-it-yourself or over-the-counter options available, they may harm your smile or produce inconsistent results.

Continue reading to learn more about the risks of at-home whitening remedies and how your dentist can help you safely brighten your grin instead!

How Does Teeth Whitening Work?

Whether you opt for store-bought or professional teeth whitening services with your dentist, most of these products contain a peroxide-based bleach that undergoes a chemical reaction in your mouth. As it does, it blasts the stain particles collected on your enamel, reducing their size and concentration to brighten your grin.

There are many home remedies for teeth whitening, such as applying lemon juice or activated charcoal to the teeth, which many patients believe can lighten their smile. However, there is no scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of these methods, and trying them could potentially harm your teeth.

What are the Risks of DIY Teeth Whitening?

You might think that you can achieve similar whitening results at home as you could with your dentist, but that’s not always the case. For instance, commercial-grade strips and gels tend to contain diluted bleaches that are less effective. This can result in uneven coloration or cause sensitivity, which might require your dentist’s help to address.

Unfortunately, home remedies are not usually much safer. For example, applying lemon juice may provide a small amount of whitening, but it’s also highly acidic and can erode your enamel. This increases the likelihood of developing discomfort, decay, or disease. Other options, like activated charcoal, contain gritty materials that can abrade the protective surface of your teeth as much as brighten it.

How Are Professional Teeth Whitening Treatments Different?

Meanwhile, your dentist has access to professional-grade solutions that can reliably lighten your enamel without the risks. For starters, they’ll examine your teeth and gums and treat any pre-existing concerns, like cavities or gum disease, that might negatively affect the outcome.

Many providers offer in-office procedures for instant results as well as customized take-home kits to improve your appearance on your own time. Both options use ultra-concentrated gels designed to reduce sensitivity, along with custom-fitted applicator trays, to deliver more comfortable, accurate results.

If you want a smile that’s as healthy as it is bright, you start achieving your goals by contacting your dentist for a cosmetic consultation!

Meet the Author

Dr. Natalya Nagornaya is passionate about getting to know her patients so she can provide treatment plans tailored to meet their unique needs. She earned her dental degree from the University of Illinois-College of Dentistry, and today, she has 19+ years of experience helping families improve their lives by enhancing their dental health. She provides a complete menu of services, including cosmetics like teeth whitening, to meet all your needs under one roof. Then, she uses state-of-the-art equipment for accurate outcomes your family can rely on. You can request an appointment on the website or call (847) 634-2525.