You’re not alone if you feel self-conscious about dental stains but are feeling tempted to try cheaper over-the-counter products rather than visit your dentist to try to save money. After all, many commercial-grade whitening gels and strips claim to achieve the same or similar results at a fraction of the price.
But are store-bought solutions as effective as professional teeth whitening? Continue reading to learn whether these 3 myths about these treatment options are true so you can make a well-informed decision to brighten your smile!
Myth #1: There’s No Need for a Pre-Treatment Exam
Your mouth should be healthy before applying teeth whitening because pre-existing issues, such as tooth decay or gum disease, can cause a painful reaction if bleach is placed over them and can potentially interfere with the outcome. Unfortunately, some people mistakenly assume that their smiles are in good shape if they haven’t seen obvious issues.
But you might develop cavities or periodontal disease in hidden places and not know, or miss early signs of potential problems. Meanwhile, your dentist has the expertise and state-of-the-art equipment to quickly identify and address areas of concern that might affect cosmetics, and they typically offer a pre-treatment exam to ensure your grin is as healthy as it is beautiful afterward.
Myth #2: All Teeth Whitening is the Same
Most teeth whitening products rely on the same bleaches, such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which undergo a chemical reaction in your mouth that blasts apart stubborn stain particles to reduce their size and concentration.
Because of this, many patients assume that over-the-counter products are just as effective as professional services, but that’s not usually the case. For instance, commercial-grade options often contain diluted solutions that yield inconsistent coloration or contribute to dental sensitivity. They also usually rely on one-size-fits-all strips or trays, leaving plenty of room for application errors. Thankfully, your dentist uses ultra-concentrated gels designed to minimize potential discomfort while delivering stunning results you can rely on.
Myth #3: There Are No Risks with Over-the-Counter Whiteners
Your dentist offers options that can safely whiten your teeth to boost your confidence in your appearance, and you might assume that there are also little to no risks associated with store-bought products.
However, cheaper gels and strips may contain solutions that aren’t pH-balanced, meaning they might be so acidic that they contribute to enamel erosion. Repeated, frequent, or prolonged exposure can potentially damage the protective outer layer of your teeth, increasing the risk of cavities, chips, cracks, and other injuries.
If you’re seeking a safer way to achieve beautiful results, your dentist offers quality whitening treatments for a sparkling bright smile!
About the Practice
Patients at Ponte Vedra Family Dentistry benefit from two dental experts who are passionate about helping them build and maintain beautiful, healthy teeth and gums. Dr. De Bonis, an accomplished general dentist, collaborates with Dr. Perry, a board-certified prosthodontist, to offer a comprehensive menu of services, including teeth whitening, to meet your unique needs under one roof. They combine advanced technology with a caring approach to deliver customized treatment plans for beautiful, long-lasting results. If you want a brighter smile, you can request an appointment on the website or call (904) 280-1200.