While a teeth whitening procedure is a service many dentists offer, it is not one an individual needs to use frequently. Nonetheless, people seem to be dashing for the next and best teeth whitening kits in an attempt to achieve the Hollywood quality smile. People are not cognizant of the fact that excessive bleaching and teeth whitening without professional supervision can have catastrophic effects on one’s teeth.
Bleachorexia
“The obsession for megawatt smiles and using over-the-counter whiteners is now leading to what many dentists are calling ‘bleachorexia,’” abcnews.com writes. The term may sound made-up but is a somewhat serious health problem as the demand for brighter and whiter teeth continues to rise. The American Association of Orthodontics finds that around 90 percent of patients display an interest in teeth whitening.
People may not realize that the chemicals in teeth whitening products, in excess, can lead to damaging the teeth and gums instead of brightening them. One can apply this concept to any medication taken over the counter or with a prescription. Abcnews.com writes about “five-time World Boxing Council champion” Mia St. John, who explained that “her quest for pearly whites grew so extreme she was brushing and bleaching constantly until her dentist intervened.”
She was close to destroying the enamel in her teeth and heading down the path of extensive dental work to replace the lost teeth. While tooth whitening is not necessarily harmful to one’s teeth, using a store-bought product will have risks. These risks may also be present when one uses a product from a professional dentist and ignores instructions.
Teeth whitening done right
While the process for whitening one’s teeth is not too complex, the chemicals can still be harmful if one abuses the process. Mouthhealthy.org explains that “Whitening products contain one of two tooth bleaches (hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide).” Mouthhealthy.org also explains that there are three main methods of whitening procedures:
- Whitening toothpastes
- In-office Bleaching or Chairside Bleaching
- At-Home Bleaching
While whitening toothpaste is not anywhere near as effective as using an at-home product or an in-office procedure, it is still somewhat effective. With a professional whitening service in an office, “usually requires only one office visit,” mouthhealthy.org writes.
A professional service will not only be more effective than an at-home product but will also be safer. The dentist can monitor and ensure that the procedure runs smoothly. In other cases, the dentist can recommend a product the patient can use, but will prescribe the specific amount to use.
Regardless of which service, a patient goes with, “it’s important to talk to your dentist before deciding to whiten your teeth, as whiteners may not correct all types of discoloration,” mouthhealthy.org adds. Do not start using a product without speaking to a dentist first and finding the best solution for your teeth. People will abuse a product in an attempt to get the perfect smile, unaware that they are destroying their smile in the process. Call today and acquire a beautiful smile, the healthy way.
MIRAMAR BEACH DENTAL & ORTHODONTICS
At Miramar Beach Dental & Orthodontics in Miramar Beach, FL, we will customize your treatment to match your needs and schedule. Our professional staff creates a calm atmosphere for you during the appointment and treatment process. If you have any questions or are unsure of what is causing the pain in your teeth, do not hesitate to call us.
We will answer any questions and make sure you get all of the necessary information. We can help prevent damage to your teeth and set you on track for a lifetime of pristine oral health. At Miramar Beach Dental & Orthodontics, your experience with us and your dental health are our prime concern.