Studies have found that individuals who smile often are considered to be trustworthy and more attractive.
These judgments may have little basis in reality (after all, people smile when they are nervous or lying). However, how we are perceived can still have a dramatic impact upon our daily lives. This is why your smile should never be taken for granted. It is always better to have your dentist whiten your teeth.
At-Home Whitening Procedures at a Glance
DIY teeth whitening kits may be convenient, but they pose a handful of notable risks. Most kits come equipped with a standard one-size-fits-all mouthguard, which can mean potential chemical burns if the gel seeps out and contacts your gums.
Some at-home teeth whitening kits (and even a handful used by beauty salons) contain a substance known as chlorine dioxide. This chemical strips away layers of enamel that help to prevent tooth decay.
A do-it-yourself whitening procedure might increase the chances of developing an oral infection. If your gums have been exposed to chemical burns, it is much easier for bacteria to enter into any exposed wounds.
The Benefits of a Dentist’s Whitening
Unlike over-the-counter or salon-based whitening treatments, a professional will ensure that all of your teeth are evenly bleached. Furthermore, DIY products tend to only target surface stains. Dentists will instead address deep-down discolorations, allowing the natural beauty of your teeth to shine through.
Professional Whitening Techniques Will Protect Your Gums
Beauty salons and at-home kits may place the health of your gums at risk. A dentist makes it as point to create a tray that snugly fits within your mouth and conforms to every tooth. Therefore, you will not have to worry about any caustic chemicals adhering to your gums during the treatment.
Your Enamel Will Not be Sacrificed
Dentists only utilise chemicals that have been approved by governmental authorities. Furthermore, they know how long the gel must remain in place before it begins causing damage. You can therefore remain confident in the fact that the enamel of your teeth has not been jeopardised.
Treatments Can be Customised
Over-the-counter whitening kits are not personalised to suit the needs of each customer. For instance, what if only a handful of teeth – or a single tooth – is discoloured? A dentist will be able to provide targeted solutions based solely around your needs.
The Effects Tend to Last Longer
Because DIY whitening products only address surface stains, the overall effects tend to wear off within a relatively short period of time. Not only does this signify that you will need to repeat the treatment, but the health of your teeth and gums could be placed at an even greater risk. A professional whitening session can provide results that last for up to three years.
Knowledgeable Advice at the Appropriate Time
What has caused your teeth to become stained? Is it due to habits such as drinking red wine or coffee might there be an underlying issue with your enamel?
In the event that a single tooth has changed colour, could this signal a more serious problem such as a dead nerve (requiring a root canal)?
Only a trained dentist will be able to determine the answers to these questions. Speaking with a professional is therefore essential in order to guarantee that tooth whitening is the best solution.
You might instead discover that another technique (such as a dental veneer or a crown) is more appropriate.
Teeth whitening has become commonplace and when appearances count, it is always safer to speak with a dentist. You will be utterly amazed with the final results!
Sources:
1. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.856336/full
2. https://dentallaw.co.uk/news/the-dangers-of-home-teeth-whitening-kits/
3. https://www.healthline.com/health/how-long-does-teeth-whitening-last
Matthew Houlton BDS(Sheffield) MFGDP(UK)I’m Matthew Houlton, principal dentist and practice owner of Manor House Dental Practice.
Qualified from Sheffield dental hospital in 1993.
Post graduate training with Paul Tipton (Specialist Prosthodontist) from 2005-2007.
Diploma for Membership of the Faculty of General Dental Practice (UK) 2007.
Special interest in Orthodontics.
Yorkshire Deanary Fixed Appliance Training Scheme 2002-2004.
I have worked at York Hospital’s orthodontic department one session a week since 2009.
Member of the British Society of Occlusal Studies (the study of temporomandibular disorder).
I have two children, who keep me busy when I am not at the practice. I take a keen interest in and teach Aikido, a martial art, to keep a healthy mind and body.
