Everybody dreams of having perfect, pearly white smile, but what exactly is the best method to achieve this Hollywood Smile? Many have tried Do-It-Yourself (DIY) home remedies such as mixing baking soda with lemon juice, or cheap over the counter tooth paste and strips. Many, however, do not take into consideration or overlook the dangers of these treatments.
Almost all home remedies carry some risk. Research has shown that DIY home whitening methods can put you at risk of developing mouth infections, toothaches, stomach issues and shrinking gums. For example, lemon juice is in fact acidic, which also act as an abrasive that wears down teeth. Also, home remedies may not prove to be effective in the end as patches may develop due to the uneven spread of bleach.
Over the counter teeth whitening kits also carry some risks and may not be as beneficial as they advertise themselves to be. Some kits are known to be abrasive, this means that they do in fact remove the surface stain - HOWEVER, a layer of enamel is also removed, which gradually, will wear down teeth. Some even contain white paint known as Titanium DIoxide.
What about the shopping mall whitening? The shopping cubicles have no sterilisation method.
Have you seen them sterilizing their equipment or maintaining infection control? The other customer before you could potentially pass diseases to you. The material they use might be caustic and some have caused severe burns to the gums and cheek.
Although the above treatments are advertised as being cheap and fast - this is not the case. Teeth whitening is a complex procedure that must be undertaken by a Dentist. Only a Dentist can successfully assess your suitability for teeth whitening. Some factors that must be assessed with the Dentist include:
1. Medication you are currently consuming (For example, some antibiotics may stain your teeth).
2. Assess any existing fillings, crowns or veneers that are present in the mouth - as these will not change color.
3. Identify if any gum recession has occurred and how to resolve the issue.
4. Discuss what is the best method to whiten your teeth.
With all factors assessed the Dentist can provide you will a suitable professional opinion that is guaranteed to whiten your teeth in the safest way possible.