When it comes to teeth whitening, there’s no shortage of products on the market claiming to give you a brighter, whiter smile. Social media and its influencers have a direct impact on the sudden boom in cosmetic concerns afflicting every corner of the web.
But can these products do what they advertise? If you’re curious whether or not these products live up to the hype, continue reading. There are plenty of claims out there that need to be confirmed or debunked.
How Do Teeth Whitening Treatments Work?
Before exploring the effectiveness of whitening products, it’s important to understand how they work. Your teeth are porous structures full of microscopic holes that can’t be seen with the human eye.
These holes allow nutrients to be absorbed into teeth, but they can also allow chemicals and dyes that stain teeth to pass through. The most effective products contain a whitening agent called hydrogen peroxide which penetrates these pores and breaks down the stains.
Myth: Over-the-Counter Products Are as Effective as Professional Treatments
Fact – While over-the-counter products can provide noticeable results, they are not as potent as professional teeth whitening treatments used by dentists.
Professional treatments use higher concentrations of bleaching agents and customized application methods, delivering faster and more dramatic results.
Myth: Whitening Treatments Are One-Size-Fits-All
Fact – Products that are ordered online are designed to cater to a broad audience. However, everyone’s teeth are unique, and the one-size-fits-all approach won’t yield the same results for everyone.
Your dentist will be able to customize your professional teeth whitening treatment to fit your smile needs by providing a dental exam to look for any complications like cavities or health issues before you begin.
Myth: There Are No Side-Effects to Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening
Fact – Teeth whitening products you get at the store or online may cause tooth sensitivity and gum irritation, especially if not used correctly.
Dentist-supervised treatments can help minimize or even eliminate these side effects depending on the system they use.
Myth: Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening is More Cost Effective
Fact – While products you get off the internet may appear cost-effective initially, they often require ongoing purchases to maintain sub-par results.
Teeth whitening provided by your dentist delivers incredible results. And while they may be more expensive initially, the effects last longer, potentially saving you money in the long run.
Most people turn to professional teeth whitening after they have already tried an over-the-counter method. With a stronger concentration of whitening agent, fewer side-effects, and customized care, it’s easy to see why professional teeth whitening is the way to go.
If you’ve been considering a teeth whitening treatment for a while, give your dentist a call and ask what your options are. Many dentists offer in-office and take-home kits to satisfy any scheduling needs. Your best and brightest smile is only an appointment away.
About the Practice
Dr. Ernie Costello and Dr. Jay DeHart make up the core of Costello & DeHart Dental Excellence. Both of these professional and empathetic dentists see their patients as the reason they come to work every day. With advanced dental technology and an environment that feels more like home than an office, Dr. Costello and Dr. DeHart provide quality dental care you can trust. To schedule a teeth whitening appointment, call (847) 259-1111 or visit the website to explore more services.