When you look in the mirror, are you dissatisfied with the dark, discolored appearance of your teeth? If so, you have probably dreamed about getting a beautiful Hollywood smile. While it is often a center of envy, celebrities can go to extremes to achieve the results you see. Behind the bright, vivid smiles are often damaged teeth from overbleaching, commonly referred to as Bleachorexia. Although you may want to get the picture-perfect smile, there is a right way to go about getting it.
Don’t Be a Victim of Bleachorexia
Teeth whitening treatments are a great way to bring new life into your smile to help you feel beautiful and confident. While they are safe and effective solutions for removing tough stains, using them too often can lead to damage. When whitening your teeth becomes a compulsion, it is often referred to as Bleachorexia.
Now, dentists are seeing more and more patients walk into their offices with damaged teeth and gums from using whitening treatments too frequently. Although your intentions may be good, using the products too often can lead to the erosion of the enamel, causing extreme tooth sensitivity. In some cases, the gum line can even start to recede.
When teeth whitening is taken to an extreme level, your enamel will begin to erode. Once it is gone, it is gone for good. As it becomes thinner and weaker, your teeth not only become sensitive, but more prone to staining. As a result, your bright smile can actually become darker than it was originally.
Protect Your Smile
Over-the-counter whitening products and professional whitening treatments are safe and effective when used correctly. If you choose to use at-home products, it is important to visit your dentist first for an examination. This will help to find the cause of the discoloration while ensuring that your teeth and gums are healthy enough for the treatment. If you are cleared to use an over-the-counter product, it is best to only use it every six months.
If you want more noticeable and drastic results, a professional whitening treatment will help you achieve your dream smile. After an initial consultation, your dentist will create a customized treatment plan to brighten your teeth. However, it is recommended that you do not have a professional treatment more often than once a year.
Get a Bright Smile Today
If you are feeling insecure about tooth discoloration, do not go to extreme measures to get a Hollywood smile. Your dentist can help you get a movie star smile without damaging your teeth.
About Dr. Gary Henkel
Dr. Gary Henkel is a trusted dentist in the area who specializes in several dental aspects, including cosmetic dentistry. Due to his exceptional training and qualifications, he provides personalized solutions to help you achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. If you are ready to reverse the appearance of tooth discoloration, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Dr. Henkel will help you safely and effectively whiten your teeth.
