It seems like everyone is trying tooth whitening products to brighten their smile. Are you one of them? There are many products you can try at home: white strips, paint-on gels, brightening toothpastes or mouthwashes.

Be careful! Your teeth may seem tough, but the bleaching craze can take its toll on the health of your teeth and gums. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that anyone considering a tooth whitening treatment, whether with a dentist or by using an over-the-counter product, should first have an exam and consult with a dentist about the best tooth whitening system for you.

Smile whitening treatments are the #1 service requested of dentists, and some patients are “bleach-aholics,” using tooth whitening strips or other products more frequently than advised. They have blazing white teeth, but like anorexics or plastic surgery enthusiasts, it’s never enough. A beautiful smile is a naturally appealing feature, and to achieve it, Americans spend more than $1 billion a year on over-the-counter tooth-whitening products.

Tooth whiteners are safe, but some of them are acidic, and this can wear away your tooth enamel. A study in the Journal of the American Dental Association found that half of the people who have whitening treatments experience some sensitivity afterwards, or pain. The chance of pain increases if you overdo whitening “touch-ups.”

Dr. Gregory Liss offers Opalescence in-office teeth whitening treatments in Little Falls, which not only whitens your teeth without heat or ultraviolet rays, but also strengthens the enamel. If you’d rather whiten your teeth at home, Dr. Liss can also give you Opalescence take-home trays, approved for consumers by the ADA.

Call our dental practice in Little Falls, NJ at 973-256-5001. If you live in communities near Little Falls such as Totowa, Wayne, Clifton, or Cedar Grove, you have the opportunity for a beautiful white smile, one that’s natural-looking. It’s your smile at it’s brightest best!