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As everyone well knows, we can all choose from a wide selection of over-the-counter teeth whitening products. From paint-on gels to whitening strips, the possibilities seem endless; and consumers are told they don’t need a dentist to get whiter teeth.

On one hand, this is true. These products have been proven to work, to some degree. However, there are many factors that play into just how effective these products will be, and there are some dangers most consumers are unaware of until it’s too late.

As with most things, the easy way is easy for a reason. Teeth whitening is safest and most effective when administered by your dentist. Dr. Curtis outlines just a few things to consider before you take teeth whitening into your own hands.

• Hygiene and oral health are important. Some common dental issues (many of which go unknown without consistent dental visits) may hinder the efficacy of your whitening attempt. Sometimes whitening can even aggravate dental issues, which may lead you to require costlier attention. For example, whitening a tooth with pulpitis may lead to the need for a root canal.
• We can actually pinpoint the cause of your teeth’s discoloration. By asking a few simple questions (Do you smoke? Do you eat a lot of _____? Have you had a root canal?), Dr. Curtis can usually figure out what’s altered the color of your teeth. And with this knowledge, he can help whiten your teeth more effectively and advise you how to avoid future discoloration.
• Some previous dental work might compromise the integrity of your whitening attempt. If you’ve had a crown or a composite filling, the color won’t change. Teeth whitening only works on tooth enamel. Therefore, if any of your front teeth have been altered in one of these ways, you could wind up with an unevenly brighter smile.
• Dr. Curtis can custom design teeth whitening trays for you, if you prefer whitening at home. Most trays that come with over-the-counter whitening kits make it difficult to keep the gel away from your gums. When your gums are exposed to these gels for any length of period, your gums become susceptible to uncomfortable burns. However, Dr. Curtis can custom fit a set of whitening trays, which—paired with professional-grade whitening gel—provide a much safer way to whiten your teeth.

Your oral health and comfort are of the utmost importance to us, and we’ll be more than happy to answer any further questions you have about teeth whitening. To learn more or to schedule a whitening consultation, call our Bridgeport dental office today. We’re located two blocks from the Trumbull Mall in Commerce Park.