Do you want to enhance your smile by reducing discoloration that’s become apparent on your teeth? Teeth whitening is a great option, but it can be easy to make mistakes and cause damage to your smile. Continue reading to learn about some common mistakes people make when trying to whiten their teeth as well as how teeth whitening in Columbia can help to reduce discoloration and stains.
Whitening Already Damaged Teeth
You should always ask your dentist about whitening treatments before you do them. If you already have issues like crack or cavities, the bleaching products can seep into them and cause further damage and severe pain. You dentist should check for these issues before you get your treatment done.
Using Natural Whiteners
Many people are put off by the idea of using too many chemicals. Even though natural whiteners may sound like a good idea, they can be extremely abrasive and cause damage to your enamel. Often times, these products don’t even work well for whitening. People have used anything from salt, charcoal, and chalk for teeth whitening, but they aren’t great options.
Buying Cheap Whitening Kits
Even though professional kits can be expensive, you get what you’re paying for. You can find cheap whitening kits anywhere, but they may contain damaging chemicals, like chlorine dioxide, which is used for cleaning pools. Ingredients like this can damage your enamel, cause your teeth to stain easier, and burn the soft tissues of your mouth.
Eating or Drinking After Whitening
Right after your teeth are whitened, they may be more vulnerable to staining. You should wait at least one hour before consuming anything that could cause your teeth to become discolored.
Using Cheap Whitening Strips
These don’t have the best coverage, cause tooth sensitivity, and can even burn the soft tissues in your mouth. They don’t tend to work very well for whitening, and they can cause contrast between the parts of the teeth that are covered and the parts that are left uncovered. A professionally made tooth whitening tray is a better option.
Not Brushing Before Whitening
If you forget to brush and floss your teeth before whitening, food debris, plaque, and bacteria will get in the way and ruin the entire whitening treatment. Take some extra time beforehand to ensure that your teeth are perfectly cleaned so you can avoid any issues.
Using Ill-Fitting Whitening Trays
You should invest in a proper fitting tray for the best results. Many over-the-counter treatments only come with a one size fits all tray which can prevent the process from going smoothly and effectively. Remember that each and every mouth is unique.
The best way to whiten your smile is by seeing your cosmetic dentist in Columbia for a professional take-home whitening treatment. This way, you know that you are getting quality materials and can avoid the possibility of anything going wrong. You’ll be able to show off your sparkly white teeth in no time!
About the Author
Dr. Victor Beck, Jr. has been serving the Columbia, TN community for the past four decades. He has a special interest in helping his patients through cosmetic dentistry and other treatments. One way he does this is through professional take-home whitening treatments for quick, effective, and safe results. Dr. Beck is a member of a multitude of professional organizations including the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and the Tennessee Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call (931) 388-8452.