Today’s teeth whitening products are accessible, so it’s easy to go overboard when using them. Finding more is as easy as visiting a supermarket or making an online purchase. Still, don’t get too gung-ho with these items; it’s risky to use teeth whitening products often. Relying on them a lot will cause problems for your smile, leading to a lower quality of life. If you’d like specific details, here’s a primer on the matter from your local Mesquite dentist.
Remind Me: What are Teeth Whitening Products?
Dental work isn’t the only way to get a brighter smile these days. Another, more convenient option is to use store-bought teeth whitening products.
Teeth whitening products are (per their name) consumer items that promise to make your grin brighter. For better accessibility, they often take a variety of forms – toothpastes, bleaching kits, films, strips, etc. The products also tend to cost much less than professional whitening treatment. However, their downside is that they don’t usually work as well as dentist-led care.
Most of the time, the products are easy to come by. You can find them at markets, at pharmacies, and even at online retailers.
The Risks of Overusing Teeth Whitening Products
It’s possible to have too much of a good thing, and that especially applies to whitening products. Overusing them can cause side effects like:
Allergic Reactions
When overused, a store-bought whitener can sometimes cause an allergic reaction. The reason is simple: the main ingredient in teeth whitening products is peroxide – a known allergen. If allergic people receive too much of it, they can experience swollen lips, oral irritation, and similar effects. You’ll thus want to confirm whether you have peroxide allergies before you start whitening.
Gum Irritation
If you overuse whitening products, you’ll likely irritate your gums. High peroxide levels from store-bought whiteners can leave gum tissues feeling burnt, sore, and so on. Worse yet, it may even make your gums turn white and become inflamed. You’d then be at an increased risk of long-term oral health issues.
Sensitive or Damaged Teeth
Some whiteners can actually cause sensitive or damaged teeth if overused. After all, those that feature baking soda and charcoal are abrasive and wear down enamel. That means using them too much will expose your dentin, resulting in sensitivity and an increased risk of infection. You’d then sport an aching smile that needs professional help.
Ultimately, it’s quite risky to use teeth whitening products often. You’re better of seeing a local dentist for professional treatment instead.
About the Practice
Riviera Family Dentistry of Mesquite is based in Mesquite, TX. Led by Drs. Ho, Arnold, and Patel, our practice always aims to make dental care effective and convenient. We thus offer preventive, cosmetic, and even restorative treatments, as well as emergency oral procedures. Our team also tailors these services to your unique smile, ensuring the best possible results. For more details or to book a visit, please contact us on our website or by phone at (214)-764-0112.