The Dangers of Over-the-Counter Teeth Whiteners

Any random trip to the toothpaste aisle of a drug store, and you’ll see a huge selection of over-the-counter teeth whiteners. Packed with beautiful people sporting sparkling smiles, these products are designed to make you think you can get professional teeth whitening results at home, without visiting your dentist in Charlottesville, VA. The reality is that most of those products are going to be disappointing at least and, at worst, they could actually cause damage to your teeth.

Enamel Erosion

One of the most serious risks of OTC whitening products is enamel erosion. Many kits contain high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide or other bleaching agents. When used incorrectly or too frequently, these chemicals can wear down the protective enamel layer of the teeth. Once enamel is lost, it’s gone forever, so it’s important not to use products that put it in jeopardy.

Increased Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is a common side effect of whitening treatments, but it tends to be more severe with unsupervised use. OTC products often don’t account for individual sensitivity levels or existing dental conditions, and users may experience sharp pain when eating hot, cold, or sweet foods. In some cases, the sensitivity can linger long after the whitening process is complete.

Gum Irritation and Soft Tissue Damage

Many whitening strips and trays are poorly fitted, allowing whitening agents to come into contact with the gums and other soft tissues. This can cause irritation, inflammation or chemical burns. Repeated exposure to bleaching agents may result in lasting damage to the gums, increasing the risk of gum recession or infection.

Uneven or Unnatural Results

OTC whiteners often deliver uneven results, especially if users have dental restorations like crowns, veneers or fillings. These materials don’t respond to whitening agents the same way natural teeth do, resulting in mismatched shades.

Professional teeth whitening in Charlottesville, VA is customized and supervised by your dentist, reducing risks and ensuring optimal outcomes. Dentists use safe concentrations of whitening agents and protect the gums and soft tissues during treatment. If a brighter smile is your goal, scheduling a professional whitening session is the safest and most effective choice.