Comparing professional and OTC teeth whitening in San Francisco
The demand for whiter teeth and brighter smiles is greater than ever before. Although store shelves are lined with OTC (over the counter) products promising a whiter brighter smile, many people in San Francisco visit Dr. Leo Arellano and his talented dental team when they want to make their smiles sparkle. They know they can rely on the doctor to recommend the treatments that are best for them.
Ensuring that teeth whitening is the best option
Dr. Arellano first conducts a thorough examination to ensure patients are good candidates for teeth whitening. He will check for factors such as:
- Existing dental issues – Some oral conditions, including periodontal disease or decay, need to be treated before whitening. If the gel reaches a fracture or cavity, it could cause extreme pain.
- Restorations – If there are crowns, fillings, bonding, or veneers in the visible area of the smile, they could be darker than the natural teeth after treatment because they do not respond to the whitener.
- Hypersensitivity – Teeth whitening can cause some temporary sensitivity, but this could be intolerable for patients with extremely sensitive teeth.
- Healthy enamel – Whitening treatments are not recommended for patients with thin or eroding enamel on their teeth. The dentin will show through the thin enamel, leaving teeth with a yellowish cast.
Although most patients are good candidates for teeth whitening treatments, in some cases, dental bonding, veneers, or porcelain crowns would be a better choice. After the evaluation, Dr. Arellano discusses the recommended treatment, explains any potential side effects, and answers patients’ questions.
Potential consequences of commercial whitening
The doctor’s professional guidance in not available with commercial products, so patients are vulnerable to making mistakes, including:
- Leaving the whitener on too long, thinking if a little is good, more would be better. This can cause sensitivity and even make teeth translucent or bluish around the edges
- Using too much whitening product and letting the excess seep onto the gums can cause gum tissue irritation or even burns.
- Using non-FDA approved products can harm the teeth and the body.
- Attempting to drink something while wearing the whitener, even using a straw, can cause patients to ingest the whitener, causing stomach distress, or worse.
Professional teeth whitening ensures the people of San Francisco and the surrounding areas can enjoy the guidance of a highly trained professional, safety, predictability, and a brighter, more vibrant smile. Call 415-881-4343 and schedule an appointment today.
