Five Social Media Trends That Can Harm Your Teeth

Following your favorite social media platforms - like TikTok, Instagram and YouTube - is fun, and can be informative. But if you’re looking for ways to improve your smile, the advice, life hacks and instructions for DIY solutions that don’t involve a dental professional can do far more harm than good – including losing your teeth! And if you think trying some of the hacks listed here will save you money, fixing the damage will cost even more than if you had sought appropriate treatment by a dentist or orthodontist. Not to mention that “fixing the damage” could mean you wear dentures for life!

Keeping this in mind, here are the top five trends that can permanently harm your teeth.

1. DIY Braces

There are many video tutorials about how to make your own braces using a variety of household items - including earring backs, paper clips, fishing line, dental floss, etc. DIY braces kits also are easy to find online. People with access to 3D printers have created Invisalign-style aligners. However you fashion them, they’re all dangerous - as are gap bands, which are rubber bands used to close gaps between teeth. Here’s why these are DIY dental hacks to avoid, according Burlingame Smile Studio and DeJesus Dental Group (and every other dentist and orthodontist in the world).

You risk permanent damage to your teeth — Damage can occur before you know what’s happening, including the following:

Your teeth can fall out — DIY braces can cause your teeth to fall out. Gap bands or DIY braces can work their way below the gums on your teeth and end up around the roots. If this happens, your teeth can and will fall out.

Movement with orthodontics is precise - When moving the teeth, there is precision required. In fact, moving the teeth too quickly can cause them to become damaged. If the roots resorb in the mouth, then they may dissolve, which can lead to tooth loss. DIY braces often lead to serious other dental issues, such as issues with the jaw joints, clenching, shooting pain and muscle spasms.

Orthodontists are trained for treatment — Orthodontists spend 10 years learning about the teeth and training to become an orthodontist. In fact, they spend two to three years just learning orthodontics alone.

As for gap bands, they’re easily available in stores and online. However, the pressure from the tight band causes fast and harmful movement in the teeth. As just mentioned, the band also can move into the gumline and irritate the roots of the teeth, destroying the bone and soft tissue, causing tooth loss. The American Association of Orthodontics reported that nearly 13% of its member orthodontists have consulted with people who have tried DIY teeth-straightening. Rubber bands were one of the commonly used tools, which for some caused irreparable damage.

2. DIY Teeth Whitening Hacks

Everybody wants bright, white teeth! If you can get them by using a natural product you may already have in your kitchen cabinet or fridge, all the better, right? Not necessarily. Golden State Dentistry provides the following popular DIY whitening hacks, and how they can damage tooth enamel - which doesn’t regenerate. Once enamel is gone, it’s gone!

Strawberries — This hack has been touted as a natural way to bleach your smile. Unfortunately, the malic acid contained in strawberries can also eat away at enamel. That’s not to say you should avoid strawberries at all costs - we’d just advise against using them as an at-home whitening treatment. 

Baking soda and lemon juice — Used as a homemade teeth whitening paste, both are another harmful DIY teeth whitening trend. While baking soda has mild abrasive properties that can help remove surface stains, excessive use or scrubbing can erode the enamel and lead to tooth sensitivity. Lemon juice, on the other hand, is highly acidic and can also contribute to enamel erosion and tooth sensitivity. 

Hydrogen peroxide — This is another trendy DIY teeth whitening method. While hydrogen peroxide is a common ingredient in professional teeth whitening products, it should be used with caution and under the supervision of a dental professional. The concentration and application method of hydrogen peroxide can greatly impact its effectiveness and safety. Using high concentrations or applying it incorrectly can lead to gum irritation, tooth sensitivity and even chemical burns.

3. Charcoal Toothpaste

Activated charcoal has emerged as a major trend in the toothpaste market, based on its reputation for whitening teeth and neutralizing bacteria. Once a boutique product with limited availability, charcoal toothpaste has gone mainstream, being produced by major brands and sold on the oral care aisle of supermarkets, drugstores and big box retailers throughout the United States.

Brushing with a toothpaste containing activated charcoal won’t harm your teeth with occasional use. But if whitening your teeth is your primary goal, it isn’t likely to be particularly effective. And if you’re determined to continue until you see results like those promoted on social media and beauty blogs, long-term use can have detrimental consequences, including the following:

Charcoal toothpaste is too abrasive for regular use — Although charcoal is a mild abrasive, it’s still too abrasive for daily use. It can wear down tooth enamel, which - ironically - will make your teeth appear more yellow. When enamel is worn away, it exposes more of the dentin underneath, which is a yellowish color. Worn-away enamel will also make your teeth more sensitive. Also, as mentioned earlier, enamel loss is permanent.

Most charcoal toothpaste brands don’t contain fluoride — Fluoride helps keep tooth enamel strong and protects against cavities. As our blog post - “What to Look for In a Toothpaste” - covers, fluoride is a natural mineral that’s used in most toothpaste brands to help harden tooth enamel, thereby strengthening teeth. Some activated charcoal toothpastes (usually those of major brands) do contain fluoride. Read the packaging to be sure.

Charcoal toothpaste can stain teeth — Obviously not what you’d expect from a product hyped for whitening teeth. However, charcoal particles can get caught in the small cracks of teeth and leave teeth gray or black around the edges.

Unknown effects on dental restorations — Because charcoal toothpaste is still a new trend, the long-term effect on such dental restorations as veneers, crowns or bridges isn’t yet known.

In addition to these drawbacks, there are certain circumstances in which activated charcoal toothpaste should not be used. Avoid it if you are pregnant, nursing, using birth control or any type of oral medication. Charcoal toothpaste that’s accidentally swallowed during brushing can decrease the absorption rate of certain medications. Our blog post - “Should You Use Charcoal Toothpaste?” covers this topic in greater detail.

4. DIY Teeth Filing

Enameloplasty is a cosmetic dental procedure to remove small amounts of tooth enamel to change a tooth’s size, shape, length, or surface. It’s typically performed on front teeth for aesthetic reasons, such as fixing a chipped tooth or making teeth a more uniform length. When performed by a dentist or orthodontist, it’s a safe procedure that will achieve the desired result. But when performed DIY with a nail file, it presents significant risks to your long-term oral health. Here’s what can go wrong, according to the American Association of Orthodontists.

Enamel damage and tooth sensitivity — DIY teeth filing can easily remove too much enamel - which can’t grow back ­— increasing tooth sensitivity and raising the risk of tooth decay.

Misaligned teeth and bite problems — Professional orthodontic procedures are performed with precision, taking into account the harmony of your bite and jaw alignment. Improper filing can result in uneven teeth, affecting how your teeth come together (your bite) and leading to jaw pain, difficulty chewing and other orthodontic issues.

Infection and long-term dental issues — Using non-sterile tools like nail files to file teeth can introduce bacteria into your mouth, increasing the risk of infection. Moreover, incorrect filing techniques can cause cracks or fractures in the teeth, leading to serious dental problems requiring extensive treatment.

Irreversible changes — Any changes you make through filing are permanent and, if done incorrectly, can lead to a lifetime of dental issues that are often costly and complex to correct.

5. Attaching Accessories to Teeth

Dental bling is in fashion. Tooth gem kits are available online and in retail stores, making this trend all too easy to follow. However, as Golden State Dentistry cautions, the adhesive used to attach these accessories may contain harmful chemicals that can irritate the gums and cause inflammation. It can also create a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to gum infections and tooth decay. Additionally, the pressure exerted by the attached accessories can weaken the teeth and even cause them to fracture or chip.

“Moreover, the presence of foreign objects on the teeth can disrupt the natural balance of the oral cavity, making it difficult to maintain proper oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing around these accessories becomes challenging, increasing the risk of plaque buildup, bad breath and gum disease.”

One more caution: Tooth jewelry application is being offered as a service in some salons and tattoo studios. Although these services claim the adhesive they use is safe for enamel, no one other than a licensed dentist should ever touch your teeth!

The Take-Home Message

The desire for an attractive smile is understandable, and worth pursuing. But taking DIY shortcuts promoted on social media to save money is ultimately counterproductive and can cause long-term or permanent damage to your teeth that will be even more expensive to mitigate. At NK Family Dental, we understand that the main concern you may have is cost, which is why we accept all major PPO plans for dental insurance and also offer our in-house dental plan. Please see our financing page for more information. 

It is our mission to provide the highest quality and most compassionate oral care to our Chicago patients, including both dental and periodontal services. Our practice is trusted for advanced oral surgery procedures and comfortable root canal treatment.

Our team of experienced, dedicated dental professionals will help address your oral health concerns, and determine the best solution for you based on your individual situation. We strive to identify treatment options that fit your needs. Our dental specialists include our general dentist, Dr. Nilofer Khan, our endodontist, Dr. Sabek, and our periodontist, Dr. Amir Danesh. Dr. Danesh is a board-certified periodontist and Diplomat of the American Board of Periodontology. He has contributed to the publication of two books, as well as published over 20 papers in prestigious dental research journals.

We serve the neighborhoods of Logan Square, Bucktown, Humboldt Park, and Wicker Park with the dedication that’s earned us the reputation as the Best Dentist in Chicago!

We understand that the main concern you may have is cost, which is why we accept all major PPO plans for dental insurance and also offer our in-house dental plan. Please see our financing page for more information.

Schedule your visit through ZocDoc, or contact us directly. We look forward to treating you soon!

How to Floss Your Teeth Like a Pro

Along with brushing your teeth, flossing is a basic essential to achieving and maintaining oral health. However — like brushing - most people assume they’re doing it correctly. But in order to get the full benefits of flossing, there’s a certain technique to follow - not to mention that some circumstances can add challenges, such as flossing around dental bridges or wire braces. Then there’s the matter of choosing the right type of floss for your particular needs. Or is a water flosser more effective than string floss?

Like the old saying goes, anything worth doing is worth doing right! And as we assume you visit your dentist every six months for an examination and cleaning, you want to be sure to follow up with the best possible proactive care to minimize plaque and promote healthy gums between appointments.

Why Do You Need to Floss?

Whether you’ve been flossing faithfully for years or still need convincing, a brief recap is in order! As our blog post - “Is Flossing Really Necessary?” - covers, “Flossing has many benefits for your teeth and gums, especially when it comes to removing plaque and preventing plaque buildup … If left untreated, plaque can lead to tartar, a hard substance that only your dentist can remove. Left untreated, tartar can lead to gingivitis, progressing to periodontal disease. Untreated periodontal disease can lead to serious health issues, such as heart disease. It can also lead to tooth decay, tooth loss and bone loss.”

Other benefits of flossing include:

Proper Flossing Technique

Healthline provides this step-by-step guide to flossing your teeth correctly:

How to Use a Floss Threader

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing twice a day and flossing once a day. However, flossing can be difficult if you have orthodontic devices such as braces, a bridge, or a permanent retainer. Not only is it challenging to clean such areas, but braces and other dental devices can fray the floss, causing you to start over. Luckily, floss threaders can help! These useful tools are loops of thin plastic that allow you to clean areas of your gums and teeth that are difficult to reach or impossible to access with floss alone. They’re disposable, work with any regular floss, and are easy to find online or at any store with a dental section.

Here's how to master the technique of using a floss threader, courtesy of Colgate:

The process may seem challenging at first but it will get better with practice. Cleaning between your teeth is important and with time, floss threaders can become your best friend!

How to Floss with Braces

Flossing with braces can be more time-consuming and tricky. Floss for at least 10 to 15 minutes if you are using regular floss. Waxed floss is recommended, as it is less likely to get stuck in your braces and tear.

Healthline offers the following flossing instructions for people with braces:

If you don't want to use waxed floss, other options include a floss threader or water flosser, as these help people with braces to floss more easily.

Types of Dental Floss - Which is Best for You?

There are many types of dental floss available, and there is no one particular floss that will suit everyone. You may even need more than one type of floss. Let’s look at the various types so you’ll be a better-informed consumer and make the right choice when you shop. This list is provided courtesy of Bateson Dentistry:

Thread floss - Thread floss is made from nylon and works the same way as other dental flosses. It is easy to use and easy to glide in between the teeth.

Waxed and unwaxed floss — Dental floss comes waxed and unwaxed. Unwaxed floss is made of about 35 strands of nylon twisted together. Waxed floss is also made from nylon and covered with a light wax coating.

Some people prefer the unwaxed variety, as it absorbs food particles better. Unwaxed floss fits easily into tight spaces. However, if your teeth are close together, this type of dental floss tends to break and fray along the edges. The waxed variety of dental floss tends to glide through the teeth better. Waxed floss is less likely to get stuck between the teeth or get caught on rough edges. It also doesn’t fray or break as quickly as unwaxed dental floss. The downside is that the wax makes the floss a little thicker. Therefore, if your teeth are close together, you may prefer to use unwaxed dental floss.

Flavored and unflavored floss — If you love the fresh minty flavor of your favorite toothpaste, you can get the same in dental floss as well. A mint flavor leaves a pleasantly fresh, clean taste in the mouth. You could try a flavor like cinnamon or even a floss coated in fluoride. If you find it hard to get your children into the habit of flossing their teeth, then flavored flosses are the way to go.

Dental tape or tape floss — If you have widely spaced teeth, there is something for you as well. Tape floss - also known as dental tape - is thicker and broader than conventional dental floss and doesn’t easily fray or break. It gives you the feeling of getting into both sides of a tooth where you have larger gaps in between.

Super flosses — These types of dental floss are made from a yarn-like material. It’s used to clean around braces or dental bridges. Because it has stiffer sections on each end, this type of floss stands up to the rigors of flossing between those complex spaces when wearing braces or dental bridges.

PTFE floss — PTFE stands for polytetrafluorethylene, and is the same material used in the high-tech Gore-Tex fabric. It slides between your teeth with ease. It’s perfect for those who have a challenging tooth formation or crowded teeth. Because perfluorooctanoic acid is a suspected carcinogen, you might want to consult your dentist before using PTFE floss.

Biodegradable and natural floss — If you’re concerned about the environment, you can buy floss packaged in glass bottles that can be reused and recycled. You can also buy floss made from silk and waxed with plant-derived vegan candelilla wax - it’s also biodegradable.

Can a Water Flosser Replace Thread Floss?

Also known as oral irrigation systems, water flossers provide a high-tech method of cleaning between teeth and around the gumline to help prevent cavities and periodontal disease. Despite the increasing popularity of such devices, there are some questions about their use and effectiveness. Our blog post - “The Pros and Cons of Water Flossers” - covers this topic in detail.

Water flossers are especially beneficial to those wearing traditional metal braces. The gentle water stream gets behind and in-between the metal wires and effectively flushes out food particles and bacteria. They are also well-suited for people with arthritis who may have difficulty wrapping string floss around their fingers and maneuvering it between teeth.

Healthline notes that a water flosser may be an attractive choice for people with non-removable bridgework, crowns, and dental implants. The pulsing water is gentle on gums so as to prevent or reduce bleeding, and gets into hard-to-reach areas, such as tightly spaced teeth and periodontal pockets caused by gum disease.

However, many dentists believe that a water flosser alone isn’t enough to prevent cavities and periodontal disease.

“Keep in mind that water flossers are only an adjunct to brushing and flossing,” says Dr. Daniel Florian, DMD, of Royalton Dental Associates, North Royalton, OH. “If you only use water flossers and don’t floss you can still get cavities in between your teeth. You need to break the contact between your teeth with floss. I recommend hand flossing first to get the food debris out, then brushing to remove stain and plaque, and then water flossing to finish the clean.”

The Take-Home Message

Now that you know the right way to floss according to your particular needs, you’ll do an even better job in maintaining your oral - and by extension your overall - health! Of course, your dentist is your partner in keeping your teeth and gums healthy for life. At NK Family Dental, it is our mission to provide the highest quality and most compassionate oral care to our Chicago patients, including both dental and periodontal services. Our practice is trusted for advanced oral surgery procedures and comfortable root canal treatment.

Our dental specialists include our general dentist, Dr. Nilofer Khan, our endodontist, Dr. Sabek, and our periodontist, Dr. Amir Danesh. Dr. Danesh is a board-certified periodontist and Diplomat of the American Board of Periodontology. He has contributed to the publication of two books, as well as published over 20 papers in prestigious dental research journals.

We understand that the main concern you may have is cost, which is why we accept all major PPO plans for dental insurance and also offer our in-house dental plan. Please see our financing page for more information.

We serve the neighborhoods of Logan Square, Bucktown, Humboldt Park, and Wicker Park with the dedication that’s earned us the reputation as the Best Dentist in Chicago!

Schedule your visit through ZocDoc, or contact us directly. We look forward to treating you soon!

What to Expect with a Root Canal

Just hearing the words “root canal” may be enough to trigger a sense of pain. No matter whether you’ve had a less-than-positive experience with a root canal or know others who have, this common dental procedure is not as stressful as it may seem when performed by a skilled and experienced dentist or endodontist. From medical advancements in root canal treatment to improved training of endodontists over the years, getting a root canal has become a routine procedure resulting in lasting relief.

Has your dentist recently recommended a root canal procedure? NK Family Dental is here to provide answers to your questions and ease your anxieties. Keep reading to learn more about the outdated bad reputation of root canals, how to prepare for a root canal, what to expect during a root canal procedure, and root canal aftercare steps!

Handling the Bad Reputation of Root Canals

A root canal is generally performed when a tooth develops a root canal infection, which develops either as decay spreads to the inner pulp of the root or when a bacterial infection develops inside the tooth or at its root tip. Signs of a root canal infection include severe toothache, tooth sensitivity to both hot and cold temperatures, swollen and tender gums, and the development of abscesses on the gums. Root canal procedures - also known as endodontic therapy - stop infection and pain while preserving the tooth to prevent extraction. Once treated, the tooth retains its function and appearance. 

Not so long ago, a root canal was a lengthy, uncomfortable procedure that sometimes necessitated two visits to the endodontist. Today, when performed by an endodontist equipped with up-to-date technology, a root canal is a quick, painless procedure that - depending upon your individual situation - may be performed during a single appointment. If you have a bad memory of a root canal many years ago, be assured that there is no reason to dread undergoing one now!

The American Association of Endodontists (AAE) reported on a 2019 study by the University of Adelaide on modern root canal treatment, authored by Dr. Tallen Chew and published in the Journal Endodontics (JOE). The JOE study concluded that root canal treatments are currently perceived as no worse than other dental procedures, with more than 25 million root canals treated every year by dentists and endodontists.

So, what exactly is an endodontist? An endodontist is a dentist who specializes in diagnosing tooth pain, treating it performing root canal treatment. Endodontists must receive two or more years of advanced training after completing dental school in order to further develop their knowledge, skills, and use of advanced root canal treatment technology. You can rest assured knowing your root canal treatment is in qualified and experienced hands.

As Dr. Keith V. Krell, President of the AAE stated, “Modern root canal treatment helps save patients’ teeth, and no one is better equipped or trained to help a patient than an endodontist. Have no fear!”

Preparing for a Root Canal

While dental pain is often associated with a root canal infection and the necessity to undergo root canal treatment, some patients may not feel pain related to the infection if the tooth nerve has died. However, your dentist will be the one to decide whether you need a root canal in order to stop the infection - also known as irreversible pulpitis - and prevent tooth loss.

There are certain tests your dentist or endodontist may perform to confirm that a root canal is an appropriate treatment. Common diagnostic procedures include X-rays, a cone-beam CT (CBCT), and a pulp vitality test. Most pulp tests involve placing a cold stimulus on the tooth to check for a healthy response. 

Patients may be prescribed antibiotics prior to treatment if they are immune-compromised, or have one of the following conditions:

It’s important to be prepared and know what to expect before arriving at your appointment. This can help ease some of your anxieties, as well as give you an opportunity to ask your dentist or endodontist any questions you may have about the procedure.

Some questions you may want to ask before to consenting to root canal treatment include:

While you want to be sure a root canal is an appropriate treatment, the risk of infection if left untreated is extremely serious. If your dentist recommends having a root canal, you should proceed, or schedule an appointment for extraction. Doing nothing could pose a risk to your life as the infection eventually spreads throughout your body.

Tooth Anatomy Ask A Dentist

Anatomy of a tooth from Ask the Dentist

What to Expect During the Root Canal

So, what about the root canal procedure itself? There are seven core steps to root canal treatment. Knowing the steps will help you be more aware of what is happening during the procedure, especially for knowing when it’s almost over. The best news is that you will not feel any pain during the procedure itself, and you may not even feel anything at all! As is the case with most dental and medical procedures, however, you can expect some minor soreness and pain during the recovery process (more on that next).

 

 

Here are the primary steps of a root canal procedure:

  1. Another physical exam and set of X-rays - While your endodontist or dentist already conducted a physical exam and took X-rays, doing so once more just before the procedure helps ensure all the correct necessary preparations have been made.
  2. Oral numbing - Local anesthesia will be used to numb the infected tooth and the area around it. Sedation is not a requirement for root canals, but you may be able to request it from your dentist prior to the procedure to help with anxiety. You can read more about sedation on our blog post, “What to Expect with IV Sedation.”
  3. Rubber dam placement - To prevent further bacteria from reaching the tooth, a rubber dam (typically a latex sheet), will be placed over your mouth. Medications used inside the tooth will also be prevented by the dam from being swallowed.
  4. Tooth opening - Your dentist or endodontist will then drill open the top of the tooth.
  5. Removal, cleaning, and shaping — The infected pulp is finally removed using very precise tools, followed by the interior of the tooth being cleaned out and shaped.
  6. Tooth irrigation - The now-empty pulp chambers are then irrigated with water. This may also be followed by an antibacterial agent.
  7. Filling and sealing - Once the interior of the tooth is dry, the tooth will be filled and sealed. The filling is generally a combination of gutta-percha and rubber cement, although posts can also be included as needed. You will also receive a temporary filling to top the tooth until you later receive a permanent crown.

Root Canal Aftercare

Expect to go back to the dentist one to four weeks after your root canal procedure to receive a filling or get an impression for a crown. The tooth will need a crown because it is no longer “alive,” and therefore will soon become brittle and prone to breaking. A crown will provide a strong structure as durable as that of the tooth itself before the root canal procedure.

It’s important to be thorough in your root canal treatment aftercare, as directed by your dentist or endodontist. Some mild soreness and sensitivity in your tooth can be expected for several days following root canal treatment. To aid with this, your dentist may recommend rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater and/or taking over-the-counter pain medication. More serious pain and pain lasting longer than a few days could indicate something more abnormal, such as root canal failure, and you should contact your dentist immediately.

Caring for your mouth after a root canal procedure also includes consuming soft foods, avoiding very hot or cold food items/beverages, avoiding hard and sticky foods, avoiding alcohol, and not chewing or biting with the treated tooth until it has received a permanent crown. Of course, you will also want to resume brushing and flossing your teeth, being careful not to use too much force around the treated tooth when doing so. 

Finally, expect to see your dentist six months after your root canal procedure for a follow-up exam, followed by a check-up on the tooth every three to five years.

Stress-Free Root Canal

A root canal procedure should not be a stressful dental treatment, and NK Family Dental is committed to ensuring all treatment at our Chicago dental practice is always stress-free. From our spa-like facility to the care provided by our extremely skilled and trained dental staff, you will feel at home with us. We provide endodontic services including root canal treatment, as well as periodontal services and many other dental services.

If you believe you are experiencing the signs of a root canal infection or simply need to resume your semi-annual dental checkups, contact NK Family Dental today and make an appointment with us! We look forward to treating you and your smile.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN UNDERGOING INVISALIGN TREATMENT

Teenagers and adults alike seek orthodontic treatment to help them obtain a beautiful and healthy smile. Since the introduction of Invisalign, a more aesthetically pleasing alternative to metal braces, the number of people pursuing treatment has increased. Although popular and effective, Invisalign patients will have a different experience compared to those who opt for metal, or traditional braces. Keep reading to learn what to expect when undergoing Invisalign treatment, so that you will be adequately prepared.

Benefits of Invisalign

Most dental patients are initially drawn to Invisalign, as the aligner trays are less noticeable than metal braces. However there are other noteworthy benefits. The thin and clear shells work faster than metal braces, and are relatively pain-free. You will likely experience soreness as your teeth shift, but you will not experience tissue injury. Invisalign trays are also easy to remove and reinsert, meaning you can enjoy the foods that are restricted with metal braces. Finally, as the aligners are removable, cleaning both the trays and your teeth will be less of a hassle. With good oral hygiene habits, your teeth will be less susceptible to discoloration and cavities than with traditional braces.

Things You Should Know

 

At NK Family Dental, we are proud to offer Invisalign clear aligners for patients who want to experience the benefits of standard braces without metal or wires. Encounter the benefits of exceptional dental treatment and service by contacting us to schedule your appointment today. Our team of highly trained professionals will be glad to assess your unique dental situation in order to provide the best method of treatment possible to help you achieve the smile of your dreams.

 

At-Home Teeth Whitening vs. Dentist Whitening Treatment

As one of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures available, teeth whitening products have been on the rise. You can find at-home teeth whitening products that promise amazing results at a fraction of the cost compared to professional whitening treatments by a dentist. This has lead people to ask, does at-home teeth whitening work as well, or better than in-office teeth whitening? Keep reading to learn the difference between the results of at-home and in-office treatment options, including safety, cost and time requirements.

 

Does At-home Teeth Whitening Work?

There are too many home remedies to list, but almost every one has a drawback. For example, baking soda does nothing, while citrus fruit-based remedies actually eat away at your enamel, causing permanent damage. Ultra-strength products often guarantee instant whitening, but only for a shorter period of time, by using bleach concentrations that can be extremely damaging. Even in the case of safe, over-the-counter products, the whitening qualities they have rarely produce significant results. The best option is always to see a professional, who utilizes safe methods and products, and can tailor the treatment to your unique needs. All in all, pass on the overpriced gum and toothpaste!

 

A Cost Comparison

One of the primary concerns for people considering teeth whitening is the cost. Like any cosmetic procedure, the price can vary significantly between in-office and at-home treatments. Compare the cost between in-office versus at-home teeth whitening, as well as the time requirements, and the results that each option offers.

 

Professional, in-office whitening treatments:

Dentist-provided custom whitening trays - For one to three hours per night for one to three weeks, patients can achieve about five to eight shades whiter, for a cost between $300 to $1,000.

In-office whitening treatments - Dental bleaching without a halogen light takes one to two hours per visit for one to four visits, and patients can achieve five to eight shades whiter for between $300 to$1,000. With a halogen light, a one-hour visit is necessary, from which a patient can achieve eight shades whiter for $600 to $3,000.

 

At-home whitening systems:

Custom fitted teeth whitening trays - Requires one to three hours per night for one to three weeks, to achieve five to eight shades whiter for $70 to $150 per kit. The price varies by the amount of whitening gel included in each kit, or required to purchase separately.

Teeth whitening pens - This process requires 30 minutes to two hours per day for one to three weeks to achieve three to six shades whiter for $30 to $60.

Teeth whitening strips - For 30 to 120 minutes per day for one to three weeks, a patient can achieve about two to four shades whiter. A box of multiple strips can cost between $40 to $70.

Boil n’ bite trays - After forming the trays, one to three hours per day for one to three weeks are required to achieve two to four shades whiter at a cost ranging from $5 to $20. However, the gel must be purchased separately at an additional cost.

 

Are You a Candidate for At-Home Teeth Whitening?

For many, at-home teeth whitening is more favorable, because it has no restrictions on candidacy. This is not to say at-home treatments are for everyone, simply that they have no way to enforce their recommendations. Anyone can purchase at-home treatments online, regardless of their oral health ‒ a requirement for in-office treatments. During an in-office consultation, a doctor would determine whether or not you were in good standing to undergo treatment.

Any underlying oral health conditions would need to be addressed before undergoing an in-office whitening treatment. Why? Patients with tooth decay or gum disease can experience significant pain due to the concentrated bleaching gel. Also, some stains can not be treated. Patients with deep, or “intrinsic” staining, are often disappointed by the less-than-effective results. Knowing this, a dentist can recommend other treatments, such as veneers. Essentially, you waste less money and have more to spend on the most effective treatment.

 

Advantages of Seeing a Dentist for Whitening

Unlike at-home teeth whitening, professional teeth whitening has more benefits than risks. Cost aside, the most obvious benefit is that you will receive the most effective, high-quality products for more thorough whitening results. On top of being reliable, the results are almost instant. You can even opt for one treatment session, or a handful, depending on your schedule and budget. A professional also has your safety in mind, meaning the dentist can adjust the whitening agent concentration as needed, and cover sensitive areas of the mouth for protection. They can also provide tips on how to prevent post-treatment sensitivity.

A fantastic option for people seeking teeth-whitening treatment who do not have time for in-office visits is Zoom whitening. Many dentists offer Zoom in-office, but can make custom trays and provide gel for you to perform the treatment at home. This option allows you to receive the recommended oral health assessment prior to starting any treatment, yet allows you to perform the procedure at the most convenient time for you.

For noticeably whiter teeth and a smile you will take pride in, look no further than NK Family Dental. Our practice is proud to offer patients the highly respected and safe Zoom and Opalescence brands of teeth whitening treatments. Contact us today to schedule an appointment to learn whether you are a candidate for teeth whitening. We look forward to meeting you!