Are you looking to achieve brighter teeth? Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures, and it’s easy to see why. Who doesn’t want a brighter, whiter smile? A brighter smile can give your teeth a more youthful appearance and may make you feel more confident about your smile.
However, there are some common teeth whitening mistakes that people make, which can end up meaning you don’t get the whitening results you were after.
This blog post will discuss some of the most common teeth whitening mistakes and how to avoid them. Read on to learn more.
Forgetting To Brush and Floss Beforehand
One mistake people often make is forgetting to brush and floss their teeth beforehand. This can leave plaque and bacteria on the surface of your teeth, which can then get trapped under the whitening agent. In addition, brushing straight after whitening can increase your risk of experiencing sensitivity.
To avoid these problems, thoroughly brush and floss your teeth before applying any whitening products. This simple step will help ensure that your teeth are as healthy and sparkling as they can be.
Not Checking in With Your Cosmetic Dentist First
Before you head to the nearest chemist for a DIY teeth whitening kit, you must consult your cosmetic dentist first. Here’s why:
Your dentist can help you determine whether your teeth are good candidates for teeth whitening. If tooth discolouration is caused by intrinsic factors (such as medication use or wear), teeth whitening may not be effective.
In addition, your dentist can help you choose the most appropriate teeth whitening treatment based on the specific needs of your smile. Various teeth whitening products and treatments are available on the market today, and not all of them are created equal.
Finally, your dentist can guide you on how to properly care for your teeth after your teeth whitening treatment. This is important because whitening teeth can increase tooth sensitivity.
Forgoing a Customized Dental Tray
One of the most common mistakes people make when using teeth whitening treatments is forgoing a customized dental tray.
Over-the-counter whitening kits typically come with one-size-fits-all trays that can do more harm than good. These trays can be ill-fitting and uncomfortable, and they can also cause the whitening gel to leak out and come into contact with your gums. This can cause irritation, inflammation, and even burn the gums.
In contrast, a custom dental tray is made to fit your mouth specifically, which helps to prevent the gel from leaking. It’s also much more comfortable to wear, so you’re less likely to experience discomfort while whitening your teeth.
Only Using Whitening Toothpastes
One of the most common mistakes people make when whitening their teeth is relying solely on whitening toothpaste.
While whitening toothpaste can play a role in removing surface stains, it can only do so much when only applied to the teeth twice a day for 2 minutes while brushing. To effectively whiten your teeth, you may need to use a product that contains bleaching agents. These agents penetrate the enamel and break down the molecules that cause stains. As a result, your teeth will be noticeably brighter after just a few treatments. However, it is crucial to consult your dentist first and only use them as recommended by your dentist , as excessive exposure can damage tooth enamel.
Not Checking Your Physical Condition
If you have gum disease, sensitive teeth or other dental problems, teeth whitening may not be right for you. In addition, bleaching agents can irritate some individuals.
As a result, it’s important to consult with a dental professional before undergoing any teeth whitening treatment. This simple step can help ensure that your teeth whitening experience is safe and successful.
Not Following Aftercare Instructions
One of the most common mistakes people make when whitening teeth is not following the aftercare instructions.
It is essential to understand that teeth whitening is a temporary solution, and the results will only last so long. Be sure to avoid eating or drinking anything that could stain your teeth for at least 24 hours after the treatment. In addition, brush and floss regularly and use a whitening toothpaste to maintain your results.
By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that your teeth stay white and healthy for as long as possible.
Summary
Teeth whitening can be a great way to achieve a whiter smile.. It can help you feel more confident and happy to show off your smile. However, teeth whitening is not without its risks.
To avoid teeth whitening mistakes, be sure to consult your cosmetic dentist.
Beaches Dental Mona Vale offers safe and non-invasive teeth whitening treatments that can lighten your teeth by several shades. . Our two options include in-chair whitening or at-home whitening treatments. At-home whitening treatment uses custom made trays made specifically for your mouth and involves wearing those trays with whitening gel in them for about 45 minutes daily for 7 to 10 days. Our in-chair whitening option consists of an hour or so appointment where the dentist applies the whitening agent to your teeth and then uses a light to increase the speed of the whitening process. You will still need to use some at-home whitening to help stabilize your whitening after. Book an appointment with us today.
