If you have deep stains or discoloration on your teeth, you may be wondering how safe it is to use whitening products like strips or gels to restore them to their natural luster. Unfortunately, while they may be more affordable than professional whitening, these over-the-counter products often take many months to deliver noticeable results, meaning that your teeth are exposed to powerful chemicals for a lot longer than they would be with professional care. Here’s a closer look at the safety of whitening treatments, and why stronger chemicals from your dentist are the better choice.
The Truth About Over-The-Counter Whitening Products
Over the counter whitening products are certainly more affordable than professional treatment, but that’s about their only benefit. In addition to containing diluted ingredients, they also take longer to work, subjecting your teeth to extended periods of sensitivity and delivering sub-par results. Worse yet, by the time you do achieve results close to what you’re searching for, you may end up spending more money than if you’d just gone to the dentist for professional whitening to begin with!
The Benefits of Professional Whitening
Professional whitening uses stronger chemicals than OTC products, which may make some people hesitate to try them. However, the truth is that it is because of this strength that these products are safer than storebought kits. In fact, while whiteners from your local discount store may take six or more months to brighten your smile, a custom professional kit from your dentist can remove up to eight shades of stains and discoloration in about two weeks. This means that your teeth will require less exposure to chemicals, and you’ll have a whiter, brighter smile, too!
Professional whitening is only recommended every six to 12 months; however, if you are careful about your oral hygiene and diet, you may not need to repeat it that often. The good news is that the custom trays from your dentist can be reused, and your gels can be refilled as needed for touch-ups, so you don’t have to wait long to restore your smile!
Remember, if you’d like to whiten your smile without the risks of prolonged exposure to powerful bleaching agents, your safest bet is professional whitening from your dentist. To learn more about this treatment and to see if you qualify, schedule a cosmetic dentistry consultation today.
About Our Practice
At Dental Group West, our team of talented and caring dentists can’t wait to help you improve your smile with the help of professional take home whitening treatment. If your teeth have deep stains or discoloration, don’t waste time and money on those ineffective storebought kits. Schedule a consultation with us today and learn more about safe, effective, and faster professional whitening. To book your appointment, visit our website or call 419-539-2168.