You may know about several OTC whitening strips or at-home teeth whitening treatment that you think will spare you a visit to the dentist. However, Dick Hikade, DDS and Brooke Hikade-Wyatt, DMD at Sunnyside Dentistry say that none of these treatment options are very effective and can harm your teeth. Here are a few teeth whitening mistakes that can harm your teeth:
Overusing Whitening Strips
You can easily buy tooth whitening strips at a low price. Although these strips can whiten your teeth, they can also wear off your enamel if you wear them for too long or too often. This can increase tooth sensitivity.
Using Baking Soda
When it comes to cleaning dishes, baking soda can certainly work wonders and remove stubborn surface stains. However, it is not as effective on teeth. Although it does have whitening properties, baking soda is also abrasive and can weaken parts of your enamel. That is why we recommend using whitening toothpaste rather than brushing your teeth with baking soda.
Using Apple Cider Vinegar and Lemon Juice
Lemon juice and apple cider vinegar are quite acidic and corrosive and can erode your enamel if you rub them frequently on to your teeth. This means that not only will your dentin start to show beneath the enamel, you will also be at increased risk of cavities. According to the American Dental Association, citrus fruits are one of the most damaging food for your enamel.
Using One-Size-Fits-All Whitening Trays
Teeth whitening trays sold in stores are one-size-fits-all and can lead to several problems. Your bleaching agent may leak from the tray and come in contact with your gums that can irritate your soft tissue. In addition, if the product seeps out of the tray, you might not be able to whiten your teeth effectively. If you want to use whitening trays, custom-fitted ones from Sunnyside Dentistry will do a much better job.
Using Hazardous Products
Some people use household products like bleach and hydrogen peroxide to whiten their teeth. However, these products are not designed for dental care and they can cause serious damage to your teeth. If you want at-home whitening products, consult us and we will recommend the best products for you.
Teeth whitening not just boosts your dental aesthetics, but also your confidence. That is why so many Americans love to get their teeth whitened. The safest way to do so is through a professional dental appointment. For an appointment, call us today at (503) 451-5104.
Dental Blog | Sunnyside Dentistry | Clackamas, OR dentist Dick Hikade, DDS at Sunnyside Dentistry has created this informative blog to help educate the community about dental concerns. Sunnyside Dentistry, 14210 SE Sunnyside Rd, Suite 200, Clackamas, OR 97015; (503) 451-5104; sunnysidedentistry.com; 10/11/2024; Page Phrases: dentist Clackamas OR;