Professional teeth whitening is a reliable solution for stained or discolored teeth, but if you’re worried about the cost, you may be considering DIY whitening options instead. However, this may not be the best choice for your oral health. Many “at-home” methods for brightening your smile may seem convenient, but they can lead to serious problems for your teeth and gums. Here’s a closer look at 4 popular DIY whitening options and the risks associated with them.
1. Activated Charcoal Toothpaste
You’ve probably seen plenty of people on social media claim that they were able to enjoy brighter smiles thanks to activated charcoal toothpaste. Allegedly, the charcoal is supposed to be able to absorb the molecules that make up the stains on your teeth. However, because activated charcoal is an abrasive substance, brushing with it could easily wear down your enamel, leaving your teeth more sensitive than normal as well as more susceptible to decay.
2. Lemon Juice
Some people combine lemon juice and baking soda to create a special paste that is supposedly effective for removing tooth stains. But lemon juice is one of the last substances you want sitting on your teeth for an extended period of time because it’s highly acidic. Too much exposure to lemon juice can easily weaken your enamel and increase your chances of experiencing all kinds of oral health issues.
3. Oil Pulling
Oil pulling involves swishing around coconut oil or another type of oil in your mouth in order to remove stains on the teeth. Despite the popularity of this DIY whitening method, there is little to no scientific evidence suggesting that it’s a truly effective solution for getting rid of dental discoloration. On top of that, while oil pulling isn’t typically considered dangerous, it can sometimes have unpleasant side effects such as nausea and tooth sensitivity.
4. Store-Bought Whitening Products
There are all kinds of whitening products that you can buy over the counter, from toothpastes to strips. What you may not realize, however, is that overusing these products can lead to a number of problems for your smile. Not only can they potentially weaken your enamel, but they can also irritate your gums, resulting in soreness and inflammation. On top of that, these products often aren’t as effective as professional whitening options and may not yield the results you want even after you’ve used them for a while.
In short, while DIY whitening methods may seem more convenient, they come with their share of risks. If you’re looking for a safe way to brighten your teeth, you should call your dentist to ask about the professional whitening options they offer.
About the Practice
At LIC Dental Associates, we always strive to bring our patients in Long Island City high-quality care that’s truly exceptional in every way. We offer multiple forms of cosmetic dentistry to help make the smile of your dreams a reality. This includes in-office whitening and take-home whitening for removing unsightly stains or discolored spots from your enamel. If you’re interested in learning more about professional teeth whitening, you can schedule a consultation at our office by visiting our website, using our online scheduling tool, or calling (718) 530-6539.