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At Maplewood Dental Associates, we want our patients in Rehoboth Beach to have beautiful smiles, but never at the expense of their health. The internet is full of “natural” whitening hacks and DIY kits, but without a professional evaluation, these methods can lead to permanent damage.
Whitening is a dental procedure, and it should be treated with the same care as a filling or a cleaning. Learn more about the risks of DIY tooth whitening “hacks.”
Soft Tissue Damage
One of the most common issues with at-home whitening is chemical burns on the gums. Because retail trays are not custom-fitted to your mouth, the whitening gel often leaks onto the gums. It can cause painful irritation and, in extreme cases, contribute to gum recession. During a professional teeth whitening session, we apply a specialized barrier to protect your gums from powerful whitening agents.
Read More: Why Professional Whitening is Gentler on Your Enamel
The Danger of Whitening Over Dental Problems
Some tooth discolouration is a warning of underlying dental issues, which is why a dental exam is always important before whitening. Applying whitening chemicals to a tooth with an undiagnosed cavity or a cracked filling is a recipe for extreme pain. The chemicals can travel through the damaged area directly to the nerve, causing pain that lasts for days. We always perform a thorough exam before any whitening treatment to ensure your mouth is healthy enough for the process.
Read More: Your Guide to Teeth Whitening: What to Expect Before Your Appointment
The Truth About Charcoal and Baking Soda
Many patients ask us about charcoal toothpastes or baking soda scrubs. These are often highly abrasive. While they might scrub away some surface stains, they can also wear down your enamel. Once enamel is thinned, the yellowish dentin underneath shows through more clearly, ironically making your teeth look darker and more yellow over time.
Gentle, Effective Teeth Whitening in Rehoboth Beach
At Maplewood Dental Associates, we are here to help you safely get your dream white smile. Our dentist in Rehoboth Beach, DE, uses buffered gels and professional techniques to minimize sensitivity while delivering a stunning, uniform result. Get a more radiant smile without compromising your oral health by visiting us for professional teeth whitening in Rehoboth Beach.
Schedule your teeth whitening appointment today!
