Dental Implants: Stains, Whitenings and Other Considerations
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Dental Implants: Stains, Whitenings and Other Considerations

Dental implants can make a smile look fabulous – I know I have them. However, if you are just thinking about getting them, you may have a lot of questions. You may be wondering how smoking affects implants, whether or not wine will stain them, if they can be whitened or other concerns. I also know from experience that it can be intimidating to ask some of these questions to your dentist. In my dental implant blog, I am going to answer the questions that can be hard to ask. I hope you find the info you need in this blog and that it guides you to the right decision about dental implants. Thanks for reading!

Dental Implants: Stains, Whitenings and Other Considerations

The Risks of DIY Teeth Whitening: What to Know Before You Try

Isobel Berry

A brighter smile can be a major confidence booster, which is why teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures.

While many professional teeth whitening options are available, some people opt for do-it-yourself (DIY) methods to save money. They are even willing to go so far as to use some rather unconventional ingredients, such as lemons, baking soda, and charcoal.

Before you start experimenting with DIY teeth whitening methods, it's important to understand the risks involved. This article highlights some of the potential risks and what you should know before you try teeth whitening at home.

Teeth May Become Overly Sensitive

One of the most common side effects of DIY teeth whitening is increased sensitivity. But some people believe that the sensitivity is a sign that the teeth whitening treatment is working. However, this is not the always case. Teeth sensitivity is a side effect that you should try to avoid.

This is because the bleaching agents used to remove stains can also damage the teeth's enamel, which can lead to sensitivity. For example, if you use bleaching products that are too strong or leave them on for too long, you can inadvertently damage the enamel.

When the enamel is damaged, it exposes the dentin, which is a much softer tissue. This can lead to pain and discomfort when you eat or drink something hot or cold. In some cases, it can even make your teeth hurt when you breathe in cold air. You may require dental treatment to repair the damage.

To avoid sensitive teeth, ask your dentist for advice before using any products. They could recommend that you schedule a teeth whitening session in their office instead.

If you already have sensitive teeth, talk to your dentist before trying any teeth whitening methods, as they may worsen your symptoms.

Teeth May Not Be Whitened Evenly

Another potential downside of DIY teeth whitening is that your teeth may not be whitened evenly. This is because the bleaching agents used in DIY treatments are not as strong as those used by professionals. As a result, they may not be able to remove all the stains on your teeth.

This can leave your teeth looking patchy and uneven. In some cases, it can also make your teeth look yellow, especially if you have some teeth with a natural yellow tint.

If you're not happy with the results of your DIY teeth whitening treatment, you may need to consult a professional to get the job done properly. They have the experience and expertise to ensure that your teeth are evenly whitened without causing any damage.

The bottom line is that teeth whitening is best left to the professionals. While DIY methods may be cheaper, they come with a few risks you should be aware of before trying them. Talk to your dentist about your options if you're looking for safe and effective teeth whitening. They will be able to recommend the best treatment for you based on your individual needs. 


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