There’s an obsession in America with perfectly aligned, pearly-white teeth. This obsession is fed by Hollywood and is supported by countless whitening options available in the dental aisle of your pharmacy. Whitening options range from the innocuous toothpaste with whitening agents built-in to more unusual options like Charcoal whitening and oil pulling. If you’ve ever wondered if these treatments are effective or if it’s all just a passing fad, we’re about to shed some light on the situation. Come along with us as we explore the world of at-home whitening, its dangers, and its benefits.

Why Would I Want My Teeth Whitened?

We Americans live in a country that is obsessed with appearances. For good or ill, how we appear and present ourselves to the world is a critical part of our ability to achieve success in our careers and our social endeavors. Whitening our teeth is one part of managing our appearance that can be done with the help of our dentist or with at-home whitening techniques. With brighter, whiter teeth, you can expect to have improved interactions with others and take advantage of a powerful first impression.

Is Charcoal Whitening Safe?

There is a full range of options for whitening your teeth, and charcoal whitening is slowly gaining popularity. There are some risks involved, however. Charcoal is incredibly abrasive and can wear away enamel at a dangerous rate if used consistently. Used as an occasional treatment, it can get rid of stubborn stains. Most dentists will advise to avoid it entirely or to limit it to once a month use at most.

What About Baking Soda?

Sodium bicarbonate is an active ingredient in many over-the-counter whitening agents, including toothpaste. Like charcoal, this material is abrasive and can cause damage to your teeth that results in sensitivity to temperatures. As a result, it’s best to avoid using it directly on your teeth unless it’s part of a pre-blended toothpaste.

What About Whitening Gel Strips?

This type of whitening agent is generally safe when purchased over-the-counter. It’s important that you strictly follow the instructions provided on the package to ensure that you don’t do any damage to your teeth. Overuse of products like these can wear away at enamel and cause you to develop dental sensitivity. If you’re considering using OTC whitening agents, just stick very closely to the instructions provided on the package.

What’s The Safest Way To Get Whitened Teeth?

The best option available for whitening your teeth is to maintain a regular dental hygiene routine. Brushing consistently will not only hold off decay; it will also help to improve the whiteness of your teeth. Flossing is another important tool in eliminating stains where they form between your teeth, and mouthwash never hurts.

Want to get the best whitening safely and effectively? Reach out to Dr. Victor Bustos at 3D Dentistry in Bradenton, FL. Our team of dental experts works closely with the surrounding community to provide exceptional cosmetic, restorative, and preventative care options for our patients. Using the latest technologies, you can guarantee that your teeth will be looking their best. Just pick up the phone and call our offices to schedule an appointment and start on your road to beautiful, healthy teeth!