Tooth whitening over the counter (OTC) products clutter store shelves, screaming their message that teeth need to be white. This isn’t just clever marketing. Studies have shown that employers prefer job candidates with white teeth and people prefer dating people with white teeth. However, there is a right way and a wrong way to whiten teeth.
Too Much of a Good Thing
Some people use multiple tooth-whitening products like toothpaste, mouthwash, gum and tray kits. They do all this because of the mistaken belief that “more is better” when it comes to whitening their teeth. This is the wrong way to whiten teeth. OTC tooth whitening products are harsh on teeth enamel. They work like sandpaper to remove stains. Over time, the enamel can be permanently damaged by OTC tooth whitening products.
The Importance of a Proper Diagnosis
There are many reasons why teeth become yellow or stained. For example, one cause of yellow stains on teeth is from taking certain kinds of antibiotics as a child. This cause will never get white from OTC tooth whitening products. Using them is just a waste of money in this case. Only a family dentistry in Bridgeport CT and elsewhere can determine why the teeth are stained. When a diagnosis is reached then the most effective course of action can be taken.
Avoid Smoking
Smokers are trying to use teeth whitening products are not going to get white teeth. Smoking is a powerful stain-making process that will counteract most any tooth whitening service or product. There are many reasons to quit smoking. Having healthier teeth is just one of them.
Do Not Whiten Damaged Teeth
Teeth with cavities need repair before they can be whitened. Any bleaching product used, especially OTC whitening trays or strips, can hit teeth nerves and cause a great amount of pain in the affected teeth.
Whitening for Too Long
Whitening strips, gels or trays should only be used for the time recommended by the manufacturer. If left on for too long, the enamel can be damaged. This is why it’s best to have a supervised professional tooth whitening session done at a family dentistry in Bridgeport CT and elsewhere to make sure whitening products are used for the right amount of time.
There are many wrong ways to whiten teeth. Click here to schedule a professional cleaning, check-up, and whitening.
