Do Teeth Whitening Kits Really Work

One of the first things people notice about others is their appearance. This includes how well they take care of their hygiene all the way to their smile. Because this is a commonly held theory, when you are dissatisfied with your teeth’ color, it can make you self-conscious, leading you to consider options such as teeth whitening kits.

When it comes to the idea of whitening teeth with a kit, many people are understandably skeptical. You’re putting a chemical in your mouth, usually bleach, and that’s something we’re taught not to do from a young age.

While you should definitely be cautious, teeth whitening kits have come a long way over the past decade. It’s easy to find an over-the-counter kit, but before you put anything with an activating agent like bleach in your mouth, it’s best to do your research and speak with your dentist about the pros and cons of a teeth whitening kit.

Putting a Clear Coat of Understanding on Teeth Whitening Kits

The main ingredient that causes the whitening effect in these kits is typically hydrogen peroxide. Even though the American Dental Association has cleared teeth whitening for use at home and in the professional dental offices, it’s important to check the reputation of the manufacturer before you put a potentially harmful product in your mouth.

The best teeth whitening kits will have the ADA approved seal on them. This means that the bleach that is used in the kit is within the acceptable levels that the ADA deems safe for human use on teeth. That doesn’t mean they won’t create sensitivity, though. According to the ADA, tooth sensitivity commonly affects anywhere from 8 to 41 percent of people who use whitening strips.

Teeth whitening kit reviews are another way to judge whether a kit is reputable or not. But the best way is to get a solid understanding of how these kits work. 

With the typical teeth whitening kit, the package comes with an applicator. This is usually a tray that holds the gel you adhere to your teeth or a sticky strip. You’ll apply the applicator to your teeth and hold it there for the time specified on the package. 

The whitening agent works as it’s adhered to your teeth. It takes time to get your teeth to the level of white you are looking for, sometimes days or weeks. It’s important to follow the directions carefully to avoid side effects such as sensitivity and gingival irritation.

The sensitivity comes from the fact that teeth whitening agents expand the pores that are in the dentin of your teeth. As these porous openings are ready, the chemical soaks into the dentin, causing the color of the teeth to lighten.

Be Safe – Check With Your Dentist First

Before using any teeth whitening kit, talk to your dentist about your options. If you use a whitening agent that is too strong or you don’t follow the directions exactly, you could cause permanent damage to your teeth and gums.

Professional treatments are usually the better way to get your teeth whitened safely and effectively. These routine appointments are popular with patients who want whiter teeth but also are serious about making sure the health of their teeth and gums are taken care of by professional products and providers.

When you schedule a professional whitening treatment, you get the advantage of an almost immediate improvement in the color of your teeth, in a shorter time than home whitening kits. This is because dental offices use a teeth whitening light to increase the power of the whitening agent.

This professional-grade whitening light is directed towards your teeth after the tray and gel have been applied. When the light is activated, the gel is absorbed quickly through the porous dentin. With the extra absorption, you have less time waiting and a whiter smile when you walk out the door!

Give Yourself the Best Smile Possible

Professional whitening treatments are safer and more effective than over-the-counter kits. From the hygienic treatment room to the enhanced whitening light, your teeth are taken care of by people who are trained in the best ways to take care of your mouth. 

Whether your goal is to get dazzling, pearly whites as quickly as you can, or to ensure your teeth are exposed to harsh bleaching agents as little as possible, a professional whitening treatment is the way to go.

When you want the best smile possible, turn to your dentist to find the teeth whitening options available to you!