Are You Frustrated With OTC Whitening Products?
Teeth whitening products are available everywhere, it seems. You can find whitening strips at the grocery store and the pharmacy. Social media influencers peddle whitening systems on every platform as well. There’s no doubt that teeth whitening is very popular. However, not all whitening products are effective, and most of the systems you can buy over the counter do not work. Continue reading to learn some important facts about teeth whitening.
OTC vs. Professional Teeth Whitening
If you walk into any grocery or drugstore, you’ll see many teeth whitening products available, including strips, toothpaste, and mouthwash. You may also see online ads for teeth whitening systems that use LEDs. These options may be affordable, but they don’t provide lasting results, and some can even be harmful, especially if you have sensitive teeth. The best and most effective option is professional teeth whitening.
Professional teeth whitening is designed to be customized to your needs, meaning your dentist can tailor the treatment to you, whether you have stubborn staining from medication or sensitivity issues. OTC whitening is not easily customized and certainly not professionally administered, so there’s no guarantee of effectiveness or safety.
Trust Your Dentist for the Best Results
The teeth whitening products and systems we offer at our office only contain proven whitening agents and will not damage your teeth or gums. Furthermore, when you work with our professional team to whiten your teeth, we will monitor your progress to ensure you achieve the results you desire. We will also give you detailed instructions and resources to help you maintain your bright white smile for as long as possible.
Beware of Charcoal!
Many store-bought products contain charcoal and claim to promote a whiter, brighter smile. The truth is that charcoal is abrasive and can have the opposite effect. Because of its harshness, any product that claims to be infused with charcoal can contribute to tooth enamel erosion, which will eventually expose the sensitive dentin that lies underneath. Dentin is yellow, not white. So, after long-term use of charcoal dental care products, your teeth could become more sensitive and appear duller and yellower than before.
Do Not Believe What You See Online
It is important to remember that social media influencers are not trained dental professionals. They are simply selling a product and do not necessarily have the expertise to determine its safety and effectiveness. When you see an online teeth whitening system ad, there’s no telling if the images depict real or AI-generated results. At best, the product could provide temporary results. At worst, it could damage your teeth. Why take that risk?
If you have any questions about teeth whitening, your best bet is to contact us. We have the experience and expertise to advise you and can show you images of actual patient results. Our only goal is to provide you with quality treatments that are safe and effective.
For more information about the professional teeth whitening we offer at our office located in The Woodlands, TX, call us or visit our website to schedule an appointment. We’d be happy to explain all the options we have available and create a customized treatment plan to achieve the brilliant smile you’re dreaming of.
