Teeth-whitening is such a popular procedure that Americans alone spend billions of dollars annually on dentist visits and on over-the-counter whitening products. Whether you’re a smoker, heavy coffee-drinker, or if you simply don’t have that illuminating white glow you see on the TV and in magazines, there are countless products out there that can help you and numerous procedures that can instantly whiten your teeth.
However, as we have learned from some patients in Connecticut, only skilled professionals should be offering some types of treatments.
Recently, the Connecticut Dental Commission voted to ban whitening procedures carried out by any individual who is not a qualified dentist or hygienist. Connecticut is the first state to do so, but if we have learned anything about the United States through its history, it’s that other states quickly follow the lead of a trendsetter.
The problem arose from some of the dangers involved with teeth-whitening laser procedures. In unskilled hands, the irreversible laser procedures can cause a lot more harm than good if done incorrectly or if the patient has oral conditions that may complicate the procedure.
Only a schooled dentist or hygienist can spot certain types of oral conditions and make the final call on whether or not a laser treatment should be given. Having just anyone administer the laser treatment can cause permanent damage, and that’s something the dental board in Connecticut is not willing to abide.
What this Means for You
Unless you’re a Connecticut resident, you may be thinking that this doesn’t concern you. But it should. The dangers associated with laser surgery should be made aware to all individuals wanting to have their teeth whitened.
That’s not to say that teeth-whitening is dangerous in general. It isn’t. But the procedure cannot be reversed, not to even mention the high cost of such a procedure.
For anyone looking to have bright, shiny teeth, your best bet is to choose an over-the-counter method to get the job done. Whether you’re opting for strips, specialized toothpastes, creams, mouth-pieces, or any other treatment, the cost is a lot lower, the products are more assessable, and there are significantly fewer risks associated with OTC treatments.
Tooth enamel is essentially bone. And while it can wear away completely, the vast majority of over-the-counter products are safe to use when used as the manufacturer suggests. You should never go overboard and use the whitening products to excess. You can cause gum damage and enamel damage. But when used moderately, it is simply a smarter move to shop your own whitening sources rather than seeing a professional—or maybe a hack with a laser!—in order to have your teeth whitened.