Are over the counter whitening systems safe?

There are many over-the-counter whitening (OTC) products for teeth in the market. The question of their safety is crystal - most of them can harm the enamel of your teeth. This means it weakens your tooth and makes it more vulnerable to trauma. For instance, a person hit you accidentally on the mouth, if your tooth is not strong enough, it will break, chip or crack under the pressure. It would be extremely unfortunate if this happens for the sake of beauty and a whiter smile.

There is one product made by Crest that is FDA approved, but it does not necessarily mean that is better than going to a cosmetic dentist for treatment. Surely, it will be cheaper in the short term however, long term effects is not assured to be completely safe. Furthermore, you need the guidance and supervision of a professional even with OTC teeth whitening systems.

One reason the safety factor is under question is not because dentists want the business, but more because the abuse of the OTC teeth whitening kits is getting out of control. It would not be bad if the results and after effects were similar or even better than a professional treatment, but it isn't.

Pressure to have whiter, model-perfect smiles is causing even the most mature of adults to toss aside safety and care in exchange for the perfect smile. Is it really worth it? At the end of the day, will you be happy to have another daily activity added to your hygiene routine even if it means possible permanent teeth damage?

At present, the American Dental Association or ADA approves use of a 10% carbamide peroxide solution provided a customized tray is used. The reason why you need to be fitted for a tray is because an ill-fitted tray will only cause you despair in the near future. Possible problems include irritation of the gums and soft mouth tissues.

If you use the mouth guards that come with a take home tooth whitening kit, you are in danger of allergy problems or spending more on gel to help you deal with the pain from sensitive teeth. If you consult a dentist prior to buying an OTC teeth whitening kit, you can get a diagnostic on whether you need treatment first, or just have a mouthy guard made. Your dentist can also help you with side effects by lowering the concentration level of the chemicals used.

To summarize, you can try an OTC teeth whitening kit, but it is not recommended that you do it solo. You need the help of a professional and qualified dentist before, during, and after using the kit. You will also have to practice self discipline in using the OTC kit. If you overdo it, you are openly inviting dental problems.

The desire to have a better smile than the person who you feel the need to compete with is something that has to be put under control. One of the best ways to do this is by scheduling a consultation with you family dentist or cosmetic dentist. Also, avoid those dentists who are all positive and gung-ho in booking a whitening procedure for you, even without a thorough dental check-up.