Everyone wants to have bright white teeth that they can show off when they smile and laugh. After all, you see them on TV shows and in movies all the time. It must be achievable. However, over-the-counter whitening kits aren’t usually the best option out there. Professional teeth whitening in Marble Falls is most likely the best choice. Continue reading to learn how over-the-counter whitening kits can be harmful and more about how professional in-office whitening works.
What Are the Negative Effects of Store-Bought Teeth Whitening Kits?
In addition to not having the best results out there, whitening kids that you find over-the-counter can have some negative effects on your smile. Here are just a few of them:
- Harms Gum Tissue: When you use teeth whitening kits from the store, you can severely damage your gums with peroxides. Whether you are using whitening strips or gel trays, you are likely causing unnecessary contact between the whitening agent and your gum tissue.
- Aggravates Dental Problems: If you already have a dental issue, including one that you may not be aware of, using an over-the-counter whitening kit can make it much worse and painful. For example, if you have a deep cavity, the bleaching agent can seep in and travel to the root of the tooth. This could cause you to need a root canal. With professional whitening, your dentist will check for these issues ahead of time.
- Damages Protective Enamel: The sodium bicarbonate and hydrogen peroxide that you often find in store-bought kits can cause enamel erosion if they aren’t applied properly. Eventually, this will expose the dentin beneath your teeth. This causes discoloration, sensitivity, and even pain.
How Does Professional Teeth Whitening Work?
For safer, more effective results, professional teeth whitening is a better option. After your cosmetic dentist in Marble Falls checks for any existing oral health issues, they will prep by covering your lips and gums so that they do not become damaged. Next, they apply the whitening get to the teeth. This is then activated by a special light. The gel is applied for three 15-minute sessions of light activation. In the end, you will be able to leave the office with a dramatically whiter smile. You can even leave with a take-home touch up kit with comfortable custom trays for easy at-home whitening.
If you’re tired of wasted money and disappointing results with your store-bought teeth whitening kits, ask your dentist about in-office teeth whitening. This way, you can begin seeing the outcome that you’ve been dreaming of.
About the Author
Dr. Greg Ritchie is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for more than 18 years. He earned his dental doctorate from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio and completed a one-year residency at the Audie L. Murphy Memorial Veterans Hospital, where he received special training in cosmetic dentistry. He also is a member of both the American Dental Association and Texas Dental Association. For more information on in-office teeth whitening or to schedule and appointment, visit his website or call (830) 693-8833.
