Most people want whiter teeth. Unfortunately, as you age, your gums can start to erode, the enamel on your teeth wears away, and discoloration occurs. You might decide it’s time to whiten your teeth, but professional dental services are often expensive. For a more cost-effective solution, you could turn to over-the-counter teeth whitening strips to remove years of stains from coffee, smoking, and other culprits.
The American Dental Association confirms the effectiveness and safety of certain strips that earned the ADA Seal of Acceptance. This means independent experts have tested them to determine whether they’re safe for use. Products that don’t meet specific guidelines aren’t given the Seal. Although many teeth whitening strips have been backed by science, they can lead to a range of dental issues.
Three Major Concerns Regarding Whitening Strips
If you’re an avid whitening strip user, you might swear by them. You enthusiastically run to the store for a package every time you need to improve your smile. You might choose this option over dental procedures because it is inexpensive, painless, and convenient. However, you could be putting your oral health at serious risk.
Gum Problems
Most OTC teeth whitening strips, gels, and rinses contain whitening agents, such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. When applying the strips, these harmful chemicals could come in contact with your gums, causing a tingling or burning sensation. As a result, soft tissue becomes damaged and can lead to gum irritation.
Tooth Sensitivity
Some experts recommend using whitening strips in moderation to avoid adverse side effects. Applying these products too often can actually cause severe and permanent damage. The whitening agent can erode the protective enamel of the teeth, increasing your risk of tooth decay. Eventually, tooth loss can occur.
Uneven Whitening
Most whitening strips are not big enough to cover every tooth. They may stop just before your molars. Sometimes, people don’t apply them correctly, leaving some areas untouched by the whitening agents. When that happens, some teeth can end up looking whiter than others.
If you’re a parent, you may wonder if it is safe for your teen to use teeth whiteners. We have the information for you. Stay informed about dental health and the safest practices for your teenagers.
Why You Should Consider Professional Teeth Whitening
There are many benefits to whitening your teeth at your dentist’s office instead of with an over-the-counter option. First and foremost, it’s safer. Professionals know what they’re doing and how to avoid causing permanent damage that can lead to serious dental problems in the future. They can also provide thorough teeth cleaning, remove tartar, and check for any oral issues all in one visit.
At-home whitening kits don’t have the same concentrations of whitening agents as professional-grade products. That means they might not be as effective or could require multiple applications before they work. Allowing a dentist to whiten your teeth means you could see results in just one office visit. You also reduce the risk of complications because professionals apply these products carefully and strategically to prevent harming the teeth and gums.
Call Babylon Dental Care Today for a Whiter Smile
At Babylon Dental Care, we understand the desire for a healthy and beautiful smile. If you’re interested in discussing the benefits of whitening treatments, you have come to the right place. You might worry about the cost of professional teeth whitening and what it will do to your bank account. With our Whitening for Life program, you pay a one-time enrollment fee to receive custom trays and whitening gel, and complimentary touch-up kits at each six-month preventative appointment.
Our experienced dental team can provide the dependable and affordable services you deserve to get the white smile you have always wanted. Call Babylon Dental Care today for your initial appointment with us.
