A bright white smile is often associated with good health and vitality in San Diego, CA. The wide array of over-the-counter teeth whitening products on the market suggests getting the pearly whites you seek is easier than ever. Although these are used for protective purposes, excessive use of them can be harmful to the dental health. In this blog, we’re going to discuss all the things that could go wrong when people overindulge in at-home teeth whitening in San Diego CA, and how they can get it right.
The Rise in Adoption of Teeth Whitening
One of the most sought-after cosmetic dentistry procedures nowadays is teeth whitening. Products claiming to whiten teeth are all over the market, from gels and LED light systems to whitening toothpaste and strips. Although using these items excessively might cause several dental problems, they can help eliminate stains and brighten your smile.
Overusing Teeth Whitening Products: Risks
Enamel Damage
The biggest downside to using teeth whitening products too often is that they damage the enamel. Hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide are often combined into tooth-whitening products that may damage tooth enamel if these methods are used too much. Increased tooth sensitivity can increase vulnerability to cavities and decay.
Tooth Sensitivity
Side effects of teeth whitening, increased tooth sensitivity This happens when the peroxide seeps into the enamel and hits the dentin, which is an inner layer of teeth. Repeated use of whitening treatments leads to sensitivity that makes you want cold, hot ice anything over extensively hurting teeth your perfect solution is.
Gum Irritation
Anything that has to sit on your teeth for any amount of time can burn away your gums if it spills out onto the soft tissue — e.g. whitening gels and strips. One common problem with teeth-whitening treatments is the effect they have on gums if used too frequently or incorrectly. In more severe cases, it can even cause gum recession which in turn exacerbates the roots of the tooth leading to further sensitivity and eventual tooth loss.
Uneven Whitening
Possible consequence from too much use of teeth whitening products. Uneven color change (“zonal mottling”) where some areas of teeth can become whiter than other areas in your mouth. This can result in a patchy, unappealing look that may need professional intervention to be corrected.
Dehydration of Teeth
Overuse of bleaching kits can dehydrate the teeth, making them look chalky or a greyish translucent. This temporary effect can result in your teeth appearing less healthy and prone to staining and damage.
Safe Whitening Practices
Read Instructions Carefully
Never use OTC whitening products without following the instructions issued by that particular manufacturer. Avoid using it in higher amounts or longer than recommended. Follow the product’s instructions, e.g., if it states to utilize the same day once a day for two weeks, then do as instructed.
Consult with a Dentist
You may want to consult with your dentist before embarking on any teeth-whitening regimen. They can evaluate the state of your teeth and gums and suggest the best technique to whiten you up. They also give a safer and more effective treatment than what is available over the counter with professional whitening treatments.
Whitening your teeth can give you a brighter smile, but abusing them can cause serious dental problems. Living with such a vibrant smile is highly respected in San Diego, CA, and it is important to use these products safely and responsibly. With a beautiful white set of teeth, you can use the treatment effectively if you follow safely everything that is shown and also contact a dentist by maintaining good oral hygiene so it will benefit rather than harm your tooth. And of course, the healthiest smile is always the most beautiful smile.