This morning I read a report about a man who unwittingly caused some severe dental damage through tooth whitening. So bad, in fact, that he will lose some teeth. Horrifying isn't it?
Before you throw away your trays and gel you need to know the full story. The person in question bought a product over the counter. It had no instructions and he used it every day for about three years. It had such a low pH that it eroded his teeth severely. It also contained levels of whitening agents higher than that permissible.
Many of my patients whiten their teeth at the end of orthodontic treatment. It's easy to do and very effective. Is it safe? YES! But...only if recommended by your dentist who can explain the advantages and disadvantages and instruct you in how to use the product. Over the counter or online products are available but in general they are much less effective than ones prescribed by your dentist or as in the case above may be dangerous.
Your options are "laser" whitening in the dental surgery or night time whitening using a mouthguard tray and gel system. I recently heard about Smilestrips as an alternative to trays/gel which should be available near here soon. Whitening is an excellent way to invest in your smile but please take time to talk to your dentist about whitening and never buy products online or in the chemist.
