Store-bought whitening kits are popular among individuals who want a brighter smile but without the high price tag. While some may be effective enough to erase surface stains, they cannot go beneath the surface, leaving patients like yourself wanting more. Unfortunately, this often leads to purchasing additional kits and overuse of products, which can be harmful to the enamel. Before you continue to spend more on lackluster teeth whitening solutions, learn why frequent use might be more damaging to your smile than you think.
What is the Problem with Store-Bought Whitening Kits?
When using store-bought strips, pens, and one-size-fits-all trays to whiten your teeth, you may think you’re saving a lot of money and getting quality treatment; however, that’s simply not the case.
Instead, you may be harming your pearly whites because of the insufficient results these kits provide. Some of the most common problems associated with over-the-counter whitening systems include:
- They May Not Be ADA-Approved: Not all store-bought kits are approved by the American Dental Association, which means they’re not all thoroughly tested for safety and quality. Instead, you may be using a product that irritates your gums because of its poor fit (i.e., one-size-fits-all trays) or one that contains harsh chemicals that can break down the enamel and cause thinning and sensitivity.
- Results Can Take Longer to Achieve: Do-it-yourself whitening kits often have to be used multiple times (spending more money) before noticeable results are achieved. Overuse can lead to sensitivity and discomfort, and you’ll likely spend more money in the long run.
- They Require No Pre-Treatment Consultation: When buying a kit over the counter, you do not need a prescription from your dentist. Instead, you can begin treating your stains right away. This might seem convenient, but there is risk involved, especially if your teeth are not healthy enough to begin this type of treatment. Existing cavities and gum disease can worsen if they’re not addressed beforehand.
Why Entrusting a Professional With Your Smile is Better
Meeting with a trusted cosmetic dentist is one of the safest ways to ensure your whitening experience is successful. Instead of spending more money on products that do not offer the kind of results you truly desire, you can place your smile in the hands of a skilled professional who understands how much bleaching gel to use and how often you should treat your teeth.
Whether it’s with an in-office service, which produces results in one hour, or a custom take-home kit that is designed specifically for your smile and has you seeing whiter teeth in just two weeks, you can expect your cosmetic dentist to answer your questions and make sure you’re following all the necessary steps to achieve a brighter set of teeth.
About the Author
Dr. Mayank Patel is the lead dentist at Meadowvale Family Dentistry, and he remains actively engaged in professional organizations to stay up to date on the latest changes and advancements in the industry. Offering general services to patients of all ages, he also provides cosmetic dentistry to help individuals feel good about the appearance of their smile. Offering in-office and take-home kits for interested patients, he can brighten teeth and eliminate stains safely from start to finish. If you are tired of wasting your money on store-bought products and want a more reliable way to whiten your smile, visit our website or call (905) 821-0011 to schedule a consultation.