Dentists Explain Dangers of At-Home Teeth Whitening

You have probably heard hundreds of old wives’ tales and at-home remedies for whitening teeth.  Some of them work.  Some of them do not.  Some of them can actually be harmful to your health.  Dentists are telling their patients which remedies work and which ones are dangerous.  However, all agree that professional whitening is the safest method.

Baking soda is probably the most well known remedy for stained and discolored teeth.  It has been proven to work repeatedly.  It has few harmful effects, but it should not be repeated frequently, as it can wear away at teeth enamel.  It is an ingredient typically found in toothpaste.

Another ingredient found in toothpaste is hydrogen peroxide.  This common household bleaching agent will turn your teeth white, but if accidentally swallowed, it can cause extreme sickness and even blindness.

Some fruits are known to be whitening agents, as well.  Strawberries are safe, because they contain only a mild acid.  However, lemon and orange rinds contain far too much citric acid, and can actually do more damage than good.

To learn more about these at-home remedies or to hear about how you can have your teeth professionally whitened, contact your dentist today!