3 Issues with DIY Whitening That You Should Be Aware Of

When it comes to teeth whitening, DIY options tend to be cheaper than professional ones. Thus, you may find yourself wondering why you would choose a professional whitening treatment when there are more affordable options available. The answer is simple: DIY whitening comes with a number of drawbacks. Here’s a closer look at 3 of these issues.

1. DIY Teeth Whitening Doesn’t Always Yield the Best Results

Over-the-counter whitening products contain bleaching agents that are meant to help break down stain molecules in the teeth. However, these agents aren’t as powerful as the ones used in professional whitening. Consequently, it can take a while for over-the-counter whitening products to yield results, and sometimes they just don’t work effectively at all.

In comparison, professional whitening is more reliable, and it tends to work much faster. You’re likely to notice a significant difference after just one in-office treatment.

2. DIY Whitening is More Likely to Cause Sensitivity

Sensitivity is a common side effect of teeth whitening. However, it’s typically more of a risk with DIY whitening options. This is often a consequence of the harsh chemicals that can be found in various store-bought whitening products. It can also be linked to people overusing the products in question, which can end up wearing down the enamel.

In comparison, professional whitening is a much safer option. Your dentist will only use clinically approved whitening methods that are considered safe for teeth, and they can take steps to help their patients avoid sensitivity.

3. DIY Whitening Does Not Benefit from a Dentist’s Oversight

Teeth whitening should only be performed if your smile is in good health overall. Trying to whiten a tooth that has an untreated cavity can result in significant discomfort. Unfortunately, cavities can often start to form without you realizing it. Thus, if you begin DIY whitening without having a dental professional look at your teeth first, you run the risk of potentially irritating a tooth that you didn’t know was suffering from decay.

Choosing professional whitening instead will give your dentist an opportunity to examine your smile before you begin the whitening process. This will allow them to identify any cavities that might be present so that they can be properly treated, thus letting you avoid unnecessary complications.

In short, there are several reasons why DIY whitening can be riskier than you might think. To achieve the best results for your smile, it’s worth doing an online search for “professional teeth whitening near me” so that you can find a dental expert who can help you achieve the dazzling results you want.

About the Author

Dr. Drew Beaty has been in the dental field for more than 20 years. He studied dentistry at Northwestern University in Chicago, and he takes over 100 continuing education hours every year. He offers Zoom! teeth whitening for patients who want a quick way to brighten their smiles by several shades. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Beaty at his office in Federal Way, visit his website or call (253) 839-6544.