Everyone dreams of having a dazzling smile, but not every method of achieving one is safe. With new health and beauty trends arising all the time and influencers pushing whitening products on the public, it can be difficult to discern which ways to whiten teeth are legitimate. We’re breaking down some of the most popular DIY teeth whitening fads so you can understand why some cosmetic fixes are best left to the professionals:
Activated Charcoal
Toothpaste and other oral products containing activated charcoal have become all the rage, but a recent study by the British Dental Journal on charcoal toothpaste concluded that this trend is ineffective for whitening teeth and can even lead to tooth decay. Charcoal is abrasive, meaning prolonged exposure can weaken your tooth enamel and may also heighten gum sensitivity. As tooth enamel wears down, it may actually become more susceptible to yellowing, making this teeth whitening option .
Oil Pulling
Oil pulling is the term used when swishing coconut oil around in your mouth for about 20 minutes, supposedly removing toxins and reducing stains. This act is said to have oral health benefits, including whitening, but the fad is not ADA approved. Moreover, oil pulling can also have some annoying side effects, such as dry mouth and stiff muscles.
Whitening Strips
Though teeth whitening strips may brighten your smile, they certainly won’t yield perfect results. The shape of whitening strips doesn’t allow them to reach between your teeth, meaning your overall whiteness levels could wind up uneven. Teeth whitening strips also have the potential to bleach small spots on your gums rather than just your teeth. If you do choose to use strips to whiten, it’s important that you closely follow directions and don’t over-do it or risk damaging your pearly whites.
It may be tempting to try and save money or time in your journey to a whiter smile, but many trendy ways of whitening can wreak havoc on the health of your teeth. Professional whitening services will produce the most drastic results while keeping oral health top-of-mind. No matter what teeth whitening method you choose, you should always consult with a dentist before starting a whitening process to ensure not just effectiveness, but safety too.
Want to find out which smile brightening service is best for you? Schedule a complimentary cosmetic consultation with Dentistry at East Piedmont today, and we’ll help you find a whitening solution that meets your needs.
