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It’s natural to want to look your best for your upcoming summer vacation, and you’re not alone if you want to boost your confidence by brightening your smile. But if you’re worried about affording professional teeth whitening, you might feel tempted to try a cheaper at-home remedy instead.
However, many of these solutions can end up hurting your teeth or making matters worse. Continue reading to learn about 3 popular trends to avoid and how your dentist can help you achieve your goals while protecting your smile!
Method #1: Lemon Juice
Lemon juice contains citric acid, which can act as a natural bleach to dissolve and lift stains left behind by darkly pigmented particles. If your teeth are tinted more yellow or brown than pearly white because of frequent exposure to coffee, tea, berries, tomatoes, or other common culprits, you might think you can improve their shade by applying lemon juice directly to your enamel.
But citric acid can be so harsh that it can strip away this protective outer layer of your teeth, which doesn’t regenerate. This leaves you more vulnerable to damage, decay, and disease that could otherwise have been avoided.
Method #2: Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal is a fine, black powder made from heated wood, peat, coconut shells, or other carbon-rich materials. It’s treated with high-temperature gases to create millions of microscopic pores, which function like a sponge, trapping and absorbing chemicals and toxins. As a result, some folks are convinced it can also soak up pigmented particles clinging to their enamel to help lighten their smile.
Unfortunately, there’s no scientific evidence proving this ingredient can effectively remove stains. However, the finely ground mixture can be abrasive when applied to your teeth, and you might gouge grooves into your enamel. This gives unhealthy bacteria and plaque plenty of places to cling to, which can increase the risk of cavities or gum disease.
Method #3: Store-Bought Strips
You might think purchasing whitening strips or gels from the store is a safe, cost-effective way to enhance your appearance, but you may come to regret trying these products. For example, they often contain diluted bleaches, which can cause sensitivity or produce inconsistent outcomes.
Meanwhile, your dentist examines your mouth to treat any pre-existing problems so that your smile is as healthy as it is beautiful after treatment. They also use ultra-concentrated solutions designed and custom-fitted applicator trays to minimize discomfort while delivering dazzling results that boost your confidence!
About the Practice
At Parma Family Dentistry, you and your loved ones benefit from two dentists passionate about helping you build beautiful, healthy teeth and gums. Dr. Judy and Dr. Tony share decades of combined experience, and today, they collaborate to offer a complete menu of services, including teeth whitening, to meet your unique needs at one convenient location. If you want to brighten your smile, you can request a cosmetic consultation on the website or by calling (440) 884-0640.