Can Over-The-Counter Whitening Hurt Your Teeth?

You want to have a brighter, whiter smile.

Are over-the-counter whitening kits safe?

New evidence says no!

Here’s what you need to know before you whiten.

Home whitening kits may weaken teeth

A recent study in the UK published in the British Dental Journal reports that teeth-whitening kits sold in drug stores “may leave teeth weaker and more sensitive.”

Dental experts have called for a “ban on non-hydrogen peroxide-based whitening kits which can be sold over-the-counter after tests of five common brands found they could harm enamel.”

The study found damage was visible in tests on extracted teeth which had been whitened in line with the manufacturer’s instructions. Home users could cause additional damage by applying them for too long or more frequently, or if they have underlying dental problems that would take a dental inspection to pick up.

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The study’s authors said, “traditional bleaching treatments have 30 years of safety data, but little research has been done to show over-the-counter products are safe.”

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Lead author Dr. Joseph Greenwall-Cohen from the University of Manchester Dental School said: “Not all bleaching products are the same and not all bleaching products are safe.” He urged the public to “undertake more caution in selecting bleaching or whitening products they apply to their teeth.”

Safely whitening your teeth

Dr. Bradley Olson is an Accredited Member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry(AACD).

He has the training, education, and experience to help you have the brighter smile you want without hurting your teeth or gums.

There are many ways to beautify your smile with over-the-counter whitening products, such as:

• Whitening toothpaste
• Strips
• Trays and gel
• Whitening pens

How can you know which ones are effective and safe?

Ask us!

Before you whiten your teeth, talk with us about the product you plan on using. We will be able to tell you if there are any dangers associated with it.

We can also give you practical tips on how to make sure you use it effectively!

You can also check dental websites like the American Dental Association for recommendations such as these kinds of toothpaste with the ADA  Seal of Acceptance, including some with stain removal attributes.

The safest option: professional whitening

Of course, to achieve the best results for brightening your smile, professional whitening is the answer.

Our in-office whitening uses a safe, professional grade whitening product that can lighten your smile up to 8 shades in just one hour!

And, of course, your entire procedure is done under the watchful care of our whitening team!

What kind of results can you expect with professional whitening?

Here is a before and after of an actual whitening patient.

Stunning isn’t it?

How can we help you?

We hope this information has helped you with your decision about teeth whitening.

Would you like to talk with us about the whitening products you are using or make an appointment for a professional whitening?

We will be glad to help you in any way we can!

• • Call and talk with us
  • Schedule an appointment online
  • Email us at Waldorf@SBSmiles.org