One of the first things others notice about you is the quality of your smile, and if yours appears more brown or yellow than pearly white, you might not make a good impression. Unfortunately, many people are so afraid of being judged for their dental discoloration that they try to remain tight-lipped rather than smile or engage socially with others.
You might feel tempted to try over-the-counter products to lighten your enamel, but you could harm your grin by applying store-bought bleach without a professional examination. Continue reading to learn why it’s better to call your dentist first!
How Does Teeth Whitening Work?
To address surface stains, whitening gels typically contain a bleaching agent, like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. When these chemicals come into contact with your saliva, they undergo a chemical process that releases oxygen molecules. These, in turn, react with the colored compounds clinging to the surfaces of your teeth to break them down. Their reduced size and pigmentation result in a bright grin you can’t wait to show off.
However, many store-bought whiteners contain diluted bleaches that are less effective. Plus, they contain one-size-fits-all trays that lead to errors in the application. Then, you might accidentally develop sensitivity by applying too much to your gums or enamel.
How Does Teeth Whitening Impact Cavities?
Another pitfall of using over-the-counter options is that you might have oral issues you’re unaware of. Even if you brush and floss twice daily, you might still develop a cavity somewhere difficult to see, like between two teeth or behind your molars.
Then, if you place cheap bleach over tooth decay, the ingredients can cause a painful reaction that might require an emergency dental visit to address.
Why Should I Whiten My Teeth With My Dentist?
If you want to safely enhance your appearance without causing any adverse reactions, it’s usually best to start with your dentist. They have advanced training, experience, and technology to provide top-quality results while avoiding complications. Plus, they’ll take the time to examine your mouth for any pre-existing problems, like tooth decay or periodontal issues, that might interfere.
Furthermore, your provider can give you much more consistent results than store-bought solutions. A single in-office visit can potentially lighten your enamel by up to eight shades for nearly instant results, or you can opt for a take-home kit with professional-grade supplies and custom-fitted trays for an optimal outcome from your living room after just a couple of weeks!
About the Practice
Patients at Painted Skies Dental benefit from a husband-and-wife team eager to help you and your loved ones improve your lives by enhancing your smiles. Drs. Natalie and Ramon Ortiz collaborate to provide a wide array of services to people of all ages, so you and your family receive the same top-quality care. Then, they combine a compassionate approach with state-of-the-art technology to increase your comfort while delivering accurate results intended to last. If you’re unhappy with the shade of your grin, you can request a consultation on the website or by calling (575) 521-8720.