Seemingly everyone wishes they had a bright white grin, though very few people come by them naturally. Years of repeated or prolonged exposure to dark foods and drinks that stain can leave your once-pearly whites tinted more brown or yellow.
Although you may feel tempted to try over-the-counter products to lighten your smile, they may cause issues like dental sensitivity, especially if you already have thinned enamel or tooth decay. Continue reading to learn why applying whitening products over cavities is a bad idea, and how your dentist can help you safely achieve the perfect shade!
How Are Commercial Products Different from Professional Teeth Whitening?
If you’re only considering your budget, you might wonder if it’s worth potentially investing hundreds of dollars for brighter teeth when you can purchase gels or strips from the grocery store for $20 to $40. While it might seem more cost-effective initially, the truth is that there are risks to whitening your teeth on your own.
Store-bought products typically have diluted bleaching agents that aren’t guaranteed to get the desired results. Plus, they contain one-size-fits-all strips or trays that can result in application errors. Many patients have inadvertently developed tooth sensitivity or pain by applying overapplying cheap ingredients to their teeth in an attempt to address stubborn discoloration.
Meanwhile, your dentist has access to ultra-concentrated gels that are designed to minimize potential discomfort. In a single in-office visit, they can lighten your smile by up to 8 shades. Or, if you prefer, they can give you all the supplies you need to achieve optimal results from the comfort of your own home.
How Do Cavities Impact Teeth Whitening?
Not only is whitening with your dentist typically more effective, but it’s also much safer. This is because your provider takes the time to examine your mouth before proceeding with any cosmetic treatment. This allows them to address any issues that might interfere with your results, like gum disease or tooth decay.
You might think that if you don’t see any decay that it’s okay to apply commercial whitening products to your teeth, but many patients who have tried learned the hard way that they had issues they couldn’t see. Cavities can form in places you might not be aware of, like between teeth or behind your molars. Applying bleach on top of eroded enamel can cause a painful reaction that often requires an emergency dental appointment to address.
Calling your dentist is the best place to start if you want to safely address dental discoloration!
About the Practice
Patients at United Dental Centers of Merrillville benefit from two experts who work together to provide a full range of services conveniently under one roof, including cosmetic dentistry. Dr. David and Kenneth Fried are father-and-son dental duo who share four decades of experience helping people improve their lives by enhancing their dental condition. They take the time to get to know your unique concerns and goals, then customize treatment plans to help you address them. If you want a lighter smile, you can request a consultation on the website or call (219) 980-4900.