Should I Buy Whitening Products from the Drugstore?

Teeth whitening is so popular that it’s promoted practically everywhere you turn. If you’re used to seeing plenty of products on shelves, you may wonder whether professional teeth whitening in St. Cloud, MN was worth it. Below, we’ll look at the pros and cons of buying teeth whitening products and how to decide.

Over-the-Counter Whitening Products

Over-the-counter whitening products are affordable and they don’t require you to make an appointment with a cosmetic dentist. However, the primary drawback is likely one you already predicted: they don’t work as well as professional services. While you may be able to whiten your teeth a shade or two, you may not get the results you’re looking for if you want a dramatic turnaround.

Are Whitening Products Harmful?

This question depends on the type of products you buy. Many are relatively safe, but others use higher concentrations of chemicals like bleach and peroxide. Whether you try a DIY solution, like lemon juice, or a home whitening gel from Crest, you can inadvertently damage your teeth if you’re not careful. If you are choosing a whitening product from a household name brand, it’s essential to follow their directions. Leaving products on for too long or using them too often can harm your teeth.

Is Teeth Whitening Worth It?

For many patients, teeth whitening is absolutely worth the investment. Not only can you smile wide in photos, but you can also take more general pride in your smile. Aging stains and food stains may not be harmful to your teeth, but they can lead to a general disinterest in taking care of them.

If you’re looking for a cosmetic dentist in St. Cloud, MN that you can trust, contact the team at Friesz Family and Cosmetic Dentistry. Regardless of which path you choose for whitening, we can help you make better decisions for the long-term health of your teeth. In some cases, staining is the result of a more serious problem, such as infection or decay. Instead of trying to whiten your teeth from the outside, a dentist can treat the underlying cause of the issue.