Teeth whitening strips have grown increasingly popular over the past decade because they are often a cheap way to whiten your teeth at home. In fact, the “do-it-yourself” genre transcends dental care and has become a viable way to get things done across all walks of life. However, it’s important to assess whether the advantages of products like do-it-yourself teeth whitening kits have more advantages than dangers. Let’s explore this topic in greater detail.
About Teeth Whitening Strips
Generally speaking, teeth whitening strips typically include either peroxide or bleach to remove stains and restore the natural color of your teeth. Interestingly, these are the same ingredients used to lighten the hair. The actual strip on which the peroxide or bleach are contained is usually made of a substance called “polyethylene,” which is a type of plastic. A thin plastic strip makes the teeth whitening process easier and more effective because it allows you to apply the ingredients directly to your teeth in accordance with the instructions provided. How long the strips must remain on your teeth will vary from one product to another.
Advantages of Teeth Whitening Strips
Everyone wants a bright smile, which is why teeth whitening strips have become so popular. Some people choose teeth whitening strips because they think they can’t afford a teeth whitening procedure provided by a dentist, which is not necessarily the case. It’s important to understand that teeth whitening strips are less expensive because they are made of ingredients and materials that are cheaper to manufacture. Which can be an advantage, depending on your perspective.
People who use teeth whitening strips also appreciate the fact that they only require use for an average of two times a day, over a period of about two weeks. Teeth whitening can last for several months, which is another attractive feature of the procedure regardless of the method used. Depending on the reason why your teeth are discolored, there’s a good chance that a teeth whitening kit can improve your smile.
Potential Dangers of Teeth Whitening Strips
While most teeth whitening strips are safe, there are important considerations if you’re thinking about using them. For starters, a decision to use teeth whitening strips is best made in consultation with your dentist. Why? Because we can help to determine whether the discoloration of your teeth is an issue that can be resolved with teeth whitening strips or requires a different procedure.
There are some teeth whitening strips that are not as safe as others. In fact, if you purchase a teeth whitening kit that contains chlorine dioxide, there’s a possibility of permanent damage to the enamel of your teeth. Simply put, chlorine dioxide is used to disinfect swimming pools, so you can only imagine the kind of damage that it can do to your teeth.
When harsh chemicals are used on your teeth, there’s a good chance that it will destroy the surface of the enamel, which will increase your chances of tooth decay. What might start out as a simple teeth whitening process can result in painful tooth decay that opens the door to many other issues that could have been prevented by consulting your dentist?
Even when chlorine dioxide is not contained in your teeth whitening strips, there’s a chance of damaging your teeth if the directions are not followed. There’s also a chance of harming your gum tissue, which can also cause long-term problems that could have been prevented. While there is no doubt that teeth whitening strips are convenient, it’s still important to consult with your dentist to make sure you are doing what’s best for your unique situation.
Your long-term oral hygiene is important, and we are always here to answer any questions that you have.