Whenever you buy dental products in the store, make sure you are only buying products marked with the American Dental Association’s seal of approval. These products are approved for use on your teeth, and, when used according to their instructions, won’t harm your teeth. This includes over the counter whitening strips. After all, they generally use the same whitening compounds your dentist uses, just at a lower concentration. That does not, however, mean they’re the right teeth whitening choice for you.
Teeth whitening strips available over the counter have a number of problems to consider before using them. First, they are less effective than teeth whitening at your dentist’s office. Not only do they have a weaker concentration of whitening compounds, that compound is exposed to the saliva in your mouth, which can immediately break it down, limiting its effectiveness.
Another problem with whitening strips is how hard it is to fit them properly to your teeth. And if you don’t get them fitted to your teeth right, you’re going to end up with uneven whitening results, which might leave you just as self-conscious about your smile as ever.
Finally, because the whitening compound is not enclosed, it can spread to your lips and gums, where it may cause irritation.
Teeth whitening at your dentist’s office is more effective and less likely to result in irritation to your gums and lips. It can be done in the office, for quick results, with take home kits for gradual, long-lasting, and deeper brightening, or both.
For more information about teeth whitening, please contact Dentonics, Inc, providing dental excellence in the Pittsburgh area since 1925.
