The Internet has opened the field so that everyone can obtain just about anything they want. If you want something, there is every likelihood it is being produced somewhere and you can order, and have it delivered to your home address without ever having to consult a dental expert. Every day dentists see patients that have taken matters into their own hands, such as trying over the counter teeth whitening kits, only to find that they are either more complicated than they expected, the results are minimal, or they have caused more damage to their teeth that need a professional’s help. Here is a short list of the kinds of teeth whitening treatments you can expect to find.
Whitening Toothpastes
These are the good old favorites that have been around for quite some time. They work by way of an abrasive on the surface enamel of the tooth. This means they whiten the teeth by erasing stubborn stains. Most whitening toothpastes are required to have an RDA measurement (Relative or Radioactive Dentin Abrasivity). The higher the RDA number, the more abrasive the toothpaste is, and potentially the more damaging it can be. Teeth whitening products bought from the Internet can be manufactured anywhere in the world and may not have an RDA number or it may be higher than what’s considered safe by the American dental Association. They may be expensive in terms of toothpaste and the job they do will be minimal in terms of teeth whitening.
Whitening Gels
These over the counter (or Internet) whitening gels contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These are the same chemicals that are used in a professional capacity by a qualified dentist. However, improper use can create more problems for your teeth, gums and mouth in general. In addition, the standard trays supplied with the whitening gel kit will not specifically fit everyone’s teeth. This means that if the tray with the whitening gel in it does not meet your tooth exactly, you may end up with uneven patches of natural tooth color and whiter tooth color. Qualified dentists will create a bespoke tray for your teeth, ensuring all of your tooth is exposed to the whitening agent.
Home Made Remedies For Teeth Whitening
There are a lot of these doing the rounds. Many of these remedies include acidic elements and whilst it may help whiten the tooth in the short-term, it will also help to erode the enamel as well as the whole tooth structure, ensuring you will spend more money on the services of an experienced dentist to rectify those issues with your teeth in the long-term.
Coconut Oil Pulling
This appears to be very popular but there is no basis whatsoever that it can whiten teeth. However, there is also no danger to your tooth either, so if you want to waste your money on a worthless process — go ahead.
Pay Attention To Your Oral Hygiene
There are many other over the counter treatments emerging every day. Some are completely harmless and do nothing to help whiten your teeth, others are potentially harmful and will cost you a lot of money to correct. By carrying out good dental hygiene practices and visiting your dentist regularly, you will care for your teeth very well. You can always discuss any potential teeth whitening treatments with your dentist and they will give you their honest professional opinion. Consult Dr. Alex Rubinov, an experienced cosmetic dentist, for a truly professional opinion about teeth whitening. Please call at (718) 253-0800 to make an appointment.