Wanting a brighter smile is normal. It may be why you regularly purchase store-bought whitening products. Millions of people opt for this do-it-yourself approach in hopes of achieving the whiter set of teeth they desire. Unfortunately, frequent use can leave smiles damaged and in need of the help of a cosmetic dentist. Learn why it’s best to avoid over-the-counter teeth whitening and let a professional whiten your smile.
Signs You’re Whitening Your Teeth Too Often
When using store-bought whitening products, you might assume that if you don’t see results after the first round, you can buy another one and pick up where you left off. While this is an option, you risk over-whitening and damaging your teeth. You will discover this is the case when you:
- Develop sensitive teeth. Attempting to eat or drink anything hot or cold will cause a sharp pain because of the exposed nerve endings in the dentin layer. The highly concentrated bleaching agent will eventually erode your teeth, causing heightened sensitivity.
- Notice uneven results. Over-whitening your teeth can cause some to appear whiter than others, creating an uneven appearance.
- Discover that your teeth appear translucent. This is due to enamel erosion caused by frequent use of store-bought whitening products. As it breaks down the outer layer, it becomes more porous, increasing the risk of decay and cavities.
- Experience gum irritation. If your gums appear red, tender, or swollen, you are whitening your teeth too often, and the bleaching agent is beginning to irritate your gums.
Why See a Cosmetic Dentist for Teeth Whitening?
Seeing a cosmetic dentist for professional teeth whitening is a worthwhile investment, not only because of the assurance of undergoing a safer form of treatment, but also because you can expect beautiful results.
A cosmetic dentist will evaluate your smile to ensure it is healthy enough to receive whitening treatment. If decay, cavities, or gum disease are present, they will recommend preliminary care before moving toward a whiter smile.
Whether you opt for in-office application or at-home whitening kits, a cosmetic dentist will ensure the process remains safe, adjusting the treatment plan according to your needs. What you will see in the end is a radiant, healthy set of teeth.
Store-bought products promise great results but often fall short, leaving damaged smiles behind. Invest in a service overseen by a trusted professional, one who can make your teeth shine and stay healthy throughout the process.
About Grand Dental – Lockport
Our cosmetic dentists in Lockport look forward to helping patients embrace life with a more radiant, eye-catching smile. Using a wide range of treatment options, including teeth whitening, we can deliver exceptional results that help individuals exude much-needed confidence. Visit our website or call (815) 240-8068 to schedule a consultation today if you are ready to say goodbye to your tooth stains.