Boise Dental: The Dangers of DIY Teeth Whitening

These days, people throughout the Treasure Valley want sparkling, beautiful smiles. After all, stained, yellow teeth can make us look old or unhealthy. However, there are so many good things in life that can stain our teeth. These can include fruit juices, coffee, tea, and even chocolate!

While your Boise dentist can help you to maintain a clean, polished smile, many people look for ways to whiten their teeth conveniently at home. DIY remedies often include peroxide and baking soda combinations to brushing their teeth with activated charcoal. Beware, though, many of these DIY methods can actually damage your teeth. That’s why Summit Dental Group would like to provide you with the following dangers of the DIY teeth whitening.

Damaged Tooth Enamel

Two of the most commonly used substances for DIY teeth whitening are hydrogen peroxide and baking soda. While hydrogen peroxide can be used as an oral rinse (upon the recommendation of your Boise dentist) baking soda is a highly abrasive substance that can permanently damage your tooth enamel.

Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity goes hand in hand with damaged tooth enamel. In fact, many DIY teeth whitening treatments can put you at risk of developing tooth sensitivity. However, this side-effect depends on an individual as some people are more likely to experience sensitivity than others. Keep in mind though, even if you don’t suffer from sensitivity, you may still have damaged tooth enamel.

Gum Irritation

Hydrogen peroxide can also cause gum irritation and damage. Gum injury sustained from home remedies can also increase your risk for infection which can come with severe consequences. If your gums become red and inflamed or bleed right after a DIY teeth whitening treatment, it’s important to consult your Boise dentist as you may have accidentally caused some damage to your gums.

Accidental Poisoning

Although gum irritation and damaged tooth enamel are serious issues that shouldn’t be overlooked, there is nothing more dangerous than accidentally swallowing hydrogen peroxide or any other substance. These can come with serious consequences that can cause extensive injuries like burns to your throat or stomach. In fact, thousands of people are rushed to the emergency room every year after accidentally ingesting dangerous DIY teeth whitening substances.

Summit Dental Group

Everyone should be aware of the risks involved with DIY teeth whitening treatments. To ensure the health and beauty of your smile, schedule an appointment at Summit Dental before attempting a DIY home remedy. As your #1 Boise dentist, we take pride in providing you with safe, effective teeth whitening treatments and promise to make the best recommendations based on your individual needs.

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