This is the time of year that many of us are “Dreaming of a White Christmas”, but many of us are also dreaming of a white smile as well. There are a number of different approaches that people take in order to achieve a beautiful, whiter smile with various teeth whitening techniques. However, we encourage you to consider these factors when deciding how to go about whitening your teeth. Visiting a professional dentist such as Scott M. Healey Dentistry is your safest and most efficient option when it comes to teeth whitening.
Just like fingerprints, everyone’s teeth are unique. This means that there is no “one size fits all” whitening treatment. It has become a recent trend to make your own teeth whitening mixture using house-hold items. This sounds like a great way to save money, but it is also a great way to cause significant damage to your teeth. Dentists do not regularly endorse the do-it-yourself method to whitening your teeth for that reason. The main reason patients decide to go ahead with a home-made whitening paste is to cut costs, but it could end up costing you more in the long run.
Some house-hold items commonly suggested for whitening your teeth:
Baking soda
Lemon Juice
Hydrogen Peroxide
Coca-Cola
Let’s break each of these down individually, starting with Baking soda. Baking soda is a very abrasive material which can permanently erode your enamel. This will create sensitivity as well as make your teeth weaker and more cavity-prone.
Next is Lemon Juice. On the Acidic pH Scale, Lemon Juice comes in at a 2. The scale ranges from 0-14. Here is the kicker; 0 is the most acidic! Coca-Cola is also at a 2 on the scale. For reference, consider that battery acid is a 1 on the pH scale. These liquids may be a part of your day-to-day diet but putting them directly on your teeth in concentrated amounts and letting them sit can be harmful.
As far as hydrogen peroxide goes, it is actually toxic for the cells in the inner part of the teeth. Though nearly all professional whitening treatments do contain hydrogen peroxide as well, they use an approved amount in their bleaching gels and systems to efficiently and safely whiten teeth. This is why it is necessary to go to your dental health care provider for a personalized whitening treatment plan (whether it be a take-home kit or an in-office procedure.) If you are looking to brighten your smile, we can help. Scott M. Healey Dentistry can give you a plan that will be safe and effective for you as an individual.
Please see a dental care professional before trying to DIY. To schedule an appointment for teeth whitening services, call 801.653.0099.
