Teeth whitening can seem like a daunting process, especially with the availability of over the counter whitening kits and the prevalence of do it yourself and “natural” methods that can be found online. Unfortunately for consumers, these methods often do not work, and can even be harmful to your dental health. In today’s blog, your Lake Orion, MI, dentist will explain why you should always consult a dentist about whitening your teeth, and the options that we offer in our office to help brighten your smile.
How Our Teeth Become Stained
As we age, many people find themselves with yellowed, stained, or otherwise discolored teeth. The discoloration can come from many sources, including:
- Normal wearing down of your enamel to expose the darker dentin underneath
- Dark liquids like coffee, black tea, and red wine
- Tobacco use
- Injuries
- Some medications like antihistamines, blood pressure medicines, and antipsychotics
While, many times, stains and discoloration are normal and natural, you may find yourself wanting whiter teeth, which is where we come in.
Dangers of Do It Yourself
Many blogs and websites boast “natural” whitening secrets that are supposed to whiten your teeth in a safer way than using the chemicals in traditional whitening products. Unfortunately, these claims are misguided and unfounded. Many of the whitening methods suggested, such as lemon juice, hydrogen peroxide, and apple cider vinegar not only can’t reach or affect most (or any) of the stains on your teeth, but they will erode your enamel, exposing the darker layer of dentin and leaving you more susceptible to cavities! The best option for your dental health when it comes to whitening is to use approved, tested products.
Over the Counter Kits
If you’ve stepped into the dental hygiene aisle of your local drugstore, you’ve likely been inundated with options for at home whitening. While these kits are generally created with oral health in mind, there is always risk involved when you are not consulting your dentist about these treatments. While the bleaching agent included in these kits is usually of a far lower concentration than what is offered in a dentist’s office, making it less effective, there is a higher risk of user error when not under the care of a dentist, and there is no one to consult with you to make sure the whitening agent you are using will be right for you and not cause further harm to your enamel and gums. If you do want to try an over the counter whitening kit, it is best to talk about it with your dentist.
What We Offer
In our office, we will consult with you to find the best solutions for your whitening desires. We offer in office teeth whitening that only takes about an hour for a quick fix, or take home kits with clear instructions for those with a more flexible schedule. Under the supervision of your dentist, you can achieve a whiter smile more quickly and safely than with do it yourself and over the counter options, and with far better results.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you have been hoping for a whiter smile, you should come in for a consultation! To schedule an appointment, call Lake Orion Family Dentistry in Lake Orion, MI, today at 248-693-6213.
