Are you struggling with discoloration or stains on your teeth? This can often feel embarrassing or frustrating when talking or smiling, which can lower your self-confidence in the long run. To address this, you may be tempted to buy store-bought products or try DIY whitening treatments to brighten your smile. However, these methods may not be as beneficial to your teeth as you might think. Read on to learn about the dangers of DIY whitening and why you should see your dentist for treatment instead!
4 DIY Teeth Whitening Methods & Their Risks
While there are plenty of trendy methods to brighten your smile, many of them can be detrimental to your dental health. Here are several DIY teeth whitening treatments and the risks that come with them:
- Citric-based solutions: Have you heard of using lemon juice or other citric-based solutions to brighten your teeth? Though these are natural, they’re also acidic, which can damage your enamel if in contact for a prolonged period.
- Charcoal toothpaste: You may have seen ads on social media informing you of charcoal products to make your teeth shiny. The activated ingredient is meant to draw out the impurities from your pearly whites for a brighter appearance, but the substance is also highly abrasive. By scrubbing it on your teeth, it can gradually wear down your enamel, which won’t grow back.
- Baking soda toothpaste: Although you can find plenty of toothpaste containing baking soda, some people have tried creating a version of it at home. This material can naturally whiten your teeth, but it’s also a mildly abrasive agent. Using it too frequently can weaken your enamel over time, increasing your risk of tooth sensitivity or cavities.
- OTC whitening products: Many people choose to get store-bought gels, strips, or pens to enhance their pearly whites. While these are an affordable and convenient option, they often offer lackluster results and can irritate the soft tissue in your mouth and gums.
What Is the Best Teeth Whitening Solution?
If you want the safest and most effective method for brightening your smile, then you should consider getting professional teeth whitening. Your dentist may be able to provide either an in-office or at-home treatment, depending on your schedule or situation. They’ll also use professional-grade bleaching agents that can blast away stubborn stains from your enamel, improving your smile by several shades! Not only can you enjoy the beautiful results for months to come, but your teeth can remain safe and healthy along the way.
Instead of trying DIY whitening methods that are risky for your dental health, be sure to visit your dentist for teeth whitening. They’ll be more than happy to discuss your options for a brighter smile!
About the Author
Dr. Brooke Buller is a proud affiliate of several groups like SPEAR Education and the Academy of General Dentistry. She earned her dental degree from The Ohio State University and has regularly pursued continuing education to refine her skills. She also provides a wide range of advanced treatments, including in-office and at-home teeth whitening to enhance your pearly whites. If you’d like to schedule a consultation, visit her website or call 614-475-1874.