One of the popular myths out there when it comes to teeth whitening is that you can achieve the same results by using over-the-counter teeth whitening kits as you can through professional teeth whitening. The truth of the matter is that this is not correct. In fact, not only do you not get the same results but you could expose yourself to health hazards using these kits. Here is what you need to know about the matter.
Can Cause Chemical Burns
Some of the kits that are used for DIY teeth whitening come with a mouthguard that is meant to prevent the bleaching gel from coming into contact with soft tissue. The problem however is that these mouthguards may fail to function properly, sometimes due to being fitted incorrectly. The results are painful chemical burns to the soft tissues and gums that often require medical intervention.
Can Cause Chemical Poisoning
If the bleaching solution is not properly contained and leaks, another potential health hazard is chemical poisoning. This is because some of this bleach may be swallowed and find its way into the stomach. Here, it may damage the soft tissue, especially in the esophagus.
Can Affect Pregnancies
There is a reason why many of these products discourage pregnant mothers from using DIY teeth whitening kits. The chemicals used in the bleach can find their way into the body of the unborn baby and cause serious health complications.
Damage Your Enamel
A number of DIY teeth whitening kits can weaken your enamel. This is the hard outer cover on the teeth that protects the tooth from bacterial and physical damage. Due to the corrosive nature of some of the chemicals that are used in these kits, there is always a chance that the enamel will be destroyed. The danger here is that without enamel, your teeth become susceptible to being damaged by bacteria, leading to cavities and gum disease.
What is worse about using these kits is that you risk the health of your teeth for very little in return. The whitening effect of these kits rarely lasts and so you have to keep applying them periodically. This as we have noted, systematically weakens your enamel and you run the risk of losing the tooth through gum disease.
Safer Alternatives
Rather than risk the health of your teeth, it makes much more sense to get your teeth whitened professionally. A dentist will first examine your teeth for any problems that are likely to affect the whitening process. When these are sorted, you then get to choose what shade you want your teeth to have. After this, the dentist then goes to work using whitening gel and laser light to give you the perfect results. Professional teeth whitening is fast, safe and the effects are far more long-lasting.
Dr. Alex Rubinov is an experienced dental practitioner in New York. The practice offers a range of services including teeth whitening, smile makeovers, cosmetic dentistry, and orthodontics, to name but a few. Contact the team at (718) 253-0800 for an appointment.