It is natural for teeth to become discolored as we age. However, it is still one of the most common reasons why people feel self-conscious about their smiles. Fortunately, there are many teeth whitening options out there, including professional take-home whitening kits and store-bought ones. This begs the question: which kit is better value? Continue reading to learn more about which one so you can get the most from your money.
What Are the Downsides of Store-Bought Whitening Kits?
Store-bought teeth whitening doesn’t usually deliver dramatic results. The whitening agent isn’t as powerful as professional kits that you get from the dental, and they can actually be harmful for your smile if you aren’t careful. Here’s how:
- Harmful for Gum Tissue: Store-bought whitening kits can damage your gum tissue because of the peroxides that are used as ingredients. Whether you choose teeth whitening strips or gel trays, you can cause unnecessary contact between your gum tissue and the whitening agent. With professional whitening kits, the trays are customized to fit you perfectly, preventing gum irritation.
- Damaging the Protective Enamel: When they aren’t used as directed, store-bought kits can cause enamel erosion. This is because many of them contain sodium bicarbonate and hydrogen peroxide. Ultimately, this can expose the dentin beneath the enamel of the teeth over time. This can result in further discoloration and sensitivity.
- Aggravates Dental Problems: If you have a dental problem, like a cavity or cracked tooth, store-bought whitening kits can make this worse. The bleaching agent can seep into crevices and travel to the root of the tooth. This is incredible painful and could even require a root canal to fix. With professional teeth whitening kits, your dentist will check your mouth for dental issues ahead of time.
How Do Professional Take-Home Whitening Kits Work?
For safer, more dramatic results, professional teeth whitening is recommended. First, your dentist will check your smile for existing oral health problems so they can be treated before your cosmetic treatment. Then, your dentist will provide you with teeth whitening trays that are customized to fit your smile perfectly as well as a professional grade whitening agent that is stronger than anything that you can find in stores. This way, you can whiten your smile at home and achieve beautiful results.
If you want to enhance the appearance of your smile, ask your dentist about professional take-home whitening kits. You will be showing off a beautiful, brighter smile in no time!
About the Author
Dr. Jeffrey Skupny is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for well over a decade. He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) at the University of Florida College of Dentistry. Currently, he is a proud member of the Academy of General Dentistry, the International Team for Implantology, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and the Naples Chamber of Commerce. For more information on teeth whitening or to schedule an appointment at his office in Naples, visit his website or call (239) 261-5566.