At-home whitening kits have become very trendy, promising to whiten teeth quickly and cheaply without a dental visit. However, most of these products are heavily criticized by oral-health experts.
Keep in mind that natural tooth color isn’t pure white not even in childhood. Each person has a genetically determined shade, and it’s never paper white.
These kits are often marketed on websites and social media. Many try to emulate the materials dentists use such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide but without any professional supervision.
Consequences of using at-home whitening kits
Using these “cheap” remedies without professional control can have serious consequences for your mouth. Some mouth trays included in these kits can damage enamel due to the acids they contain. In addition, prolonged exposure to hydrogen peroxide can cause gum recession, allowing the peroxide to reach the tooth root and potentially lead to tooth necrosis (the tooth “dies”).
Other common outcomes include tooth sensitivity and, in severe cases, gum burns that leave ulcerations due to the chemicals used.
Only a dentist can determine the right shade for your smile and the appropriate concentration of whitening agents for you. It’s also important to note that not everyone is a candidate for whitening. If you have cavities or gum recession, whitening can worsen the problem. That’s why a dental evaluation is essential to review your oral health first.
A professional whitening treatment also comes with specific after-care. Patients are often advised to avoid certain foods and drinks like coffee, cola, and red wine that stain teeth.
In the end, the “savings” from buying a kit can become far more expensive, both for your wallet and your health. Note that while whitening toothpastes are not as harmful as these kits, they can still damage teeth if misused.
This informational post explains why whitening should be personalized. Only a dentist can determine the correct shade and safe proportions of bleaching agents. Using generic kits without professional oversight can have serious repercussions. For a safe, esthetic result, a clinical evaluation is necessary.
Avoid the risks of DIY kits and choose a professionally supervised whitening instead. Book a whitening assessment via WhatsApp, phone call, or by filling out our web form.
