You’ve likely attempted a DIY whitening treatment, hoping for a whiter smile as advertised. However, you were likely disappointed or experienced tooth sensitivity as a result, and promised yourself you would never whiten your teeth at home again. We’re living in an age where DIY is the norm, but while some attempts save money and teach a new skill, dental treatments are riskier than home upgrades and shouldn’t be attempted without proper guidance from your family dentist.
If you’re searching high and low for DIY whitening treatments, you’ve come to the right place. Continue reading to learn how to whiten teeth at home safely and what to avoid so you can achieve great, safe results.
Risks of OTC At-Home Teeth Whitening Products
While over-the-counter teeth whitening products at your local big-box store seem like a great, inexpensive option for achieving a brighter smile, they’re often dangerous and come with risks. Sometimes these OTC whitening products can contain harsh ingredients that aren’t enamel-safe. Below are some risks for OTC at-home teeth whitening products:
Irreversible Damage
A brighter smile can be appealing, but trying to whiten your teeth with products or methods that haven’t been recommended by your dentist can do more harm than good. Some DIY whitening treatments may contain abrasive or overly strong ingredients that can wear away enamel, irritate your gums, or leave your teeth more sensitive. Because enamel doesn’t grow back once it’s lost, protecting it should always be a priority. Some OTC at-home teeth whitening products cause irreversible damage that can result in costly dental treatments.
Damage to the Enamel
Many teeth whitening products are available at big-box stores and online shops, but be careful before you buy them. If not accepted by the ADA, they often contain ingredients that are harmful to tooth enamel, causing abrasion and sensitive gums.
Damaging Dental Work
Did you know that some OTC teeth whitening kits can damage dental work? At-home teeth whitening kits that contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide can discolor fillings, leaving you with a mismatched smile.
Irritated Gums
When you visit your family dentist for a teeth whitening treatment, they have the knowledge and experience to apply the correct formulation, know how to apply it, and know how long to leave it on for the safest, most effective results. However, OTC at-home whitening kits can be used improperly, whether due to a too-high concentration of hydrogen peroxide, poorly fitting trays, or poorly mixed peroxide treatments left on too long. Whatever the case, DIY teeth whitening kits can damage your gums and enamel, especially with prolonged contact with your soft tissues.
Teeth Whitening Products to Avoid
If you’re researching how to whiten teeth at home, you’ll find plenty of products promising a brighter smile. While some at-home whitening options can be safe and effective, it’s important to know what you’re putting on your teeth before you buy. Products not recommended by your dentist may irritate your gums, increase tooth sensitivity, or damage your enamel. We recommend being cautious with the following:
- Charcoal-based whitening products
- DIY peroxide treatments
- Inexpensive LED or UV whitening kits
- Products that make questionable claims about their ingredients
You’ll also want to look for the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance when choosing an over-the-counter whitening product. If you’re unsure which option is right for you, talk with your family dentist first. At Rhoades Family Dentistry, we offer both take-home whitening kits and professional in-office treatments and can help you choose a safe option based on your smile and individual needs.
How to Whiten Teeth at Home Safely
When considering an at-home teeth whitening option, look for products with the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance. The Seal means the product has been evaluated against the ADA’s standards for safety and effectiveness for its intended use. However, even ADA-accepted products may not be the right choice for your individual needs and preexisting dental condition.
For patients who want professional guidance and more noticeable results, dentist-supervised whitening can be a great option. At Rhoades Family Dentistry, we can help you determine which whitening treatment best fits your smile and goals. From convenient take-home whitening kits to in-office whitening treatments, our team will help you achieve the best results with less sensitivity.
Schedule an Appointment with Rhoades Family Dentistry for Safe Teeth Whitening
Rhoades Family Dentistry’s team of professionals includes dentists, hygienists, and assistants who have extensive schooling and training to perform dental treatments. Dr. Hahn and Dr. Driscoll are members of the American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, and the International Association of Orthodontists, among many other organizations.
Rhoades Family Dentistry offers dental care for the entire family, including routine cleanings, preventative maintenance, fillings, and more. Dr. Hahn and Dr. Driscoll care about your family’s oral health and are here to help recommend the best type of oral hygiene practices for your entire family, including Invisalign and braces, cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, whitening, and more.
Book an appointment today by scrolling up and clicking “BOOK AN APPOINTMENT” at the top left of your screen or by calling (913) 782-8900. We look forward to serving you by providing excellent dental care and giving your family healthy smiles!
