Stained teeth may make an individual feel self-conscious about the way they look. They may also refrain from smiling for the same reason. As a workaround, people resort to oral care procedures like teeth whitening. Studies also show that about 67% of individuals in the country have tried some type of procedure, including at-home kits, to whiten their teeth. However, the constant use of these products may do more harm than good, and here are five reasons why.
Loss of tooth enamel
The enamel is a shell that protects the teeth from any damage. However, the constant use of teeth-whitening products may lead to tooth enamel erosion. The lack of this outer tooth covering may make one more susceptible to tooth decay. And since at-home whitening products are not as effective as the ones available at the dentist, people may overuse them, leading to severe enamel erosion.
Uneven whitening
A person who whitens their teeth at home without proper guidance might find that the process is not completed evenly. These products may also be unable to get between the teeth because of their inferior quality. Following the process, the individual might notice patches or stains on some parts of the teeth, while other regions look brighter and stand out.
Heightened tooth sensitivity
Enamel loss due to excessive use of teeth-whitening products also leaves the innermost section of the tooth filler with nerves exposed. And this may lead to sensitivity to warm or cold temperatures. It may also trigger pain in the gums. As the erosion increases, one will find their teeth more sensitive to temperature.
Irritation of the gums
Many at-home tooth-whitening products contain peroxide. The property works like a bleaching agent to whiten teeth. But processes carried out at home are not monitored by professionals. Therefore, one might get peroxide in places it isn’t supposed to be. The improper use of the bleaching agent may subsequently lead to irritation of the gums. Moreover, UV at-home whitening kits may also cause soft tissue damage in the mouth.
Unnecessary costs
One may think using teeth-whitening products at home is more cost-effective than a visit to the dentist. However, while dental care at a clinic may cost more, the professional ensure one receives the maximum benefits from procedures, including teeth whitening. On the contrary, while at-home products claim that their ingredients, including activated charcoal and turmeric, can lighten the color of teeth, there might not be credible support for the claim.
