Several types of inexpensive home whitening products promise to transform any dingy grin into a gleaming smile. But there are some potential problems that could turn that smile upside down. Despite good hygiene, over time, aging, nicotine, coffee and food stains can dim anyone's smile. Instead, a tray or strip containing bleaching solution is applied directly to your teeth. With or without your dentist's help, there are side effects.
Unsupervised treatments can be dangerous.
Bleaching can aggravate periodontal disease. And home kits using impression materials could damage fillings, crowns, and bridges. That's why it's important to get a dental check-up first. If you'd like more information about teeth bleaching, it's available at the website of the Academy of General Dentistry . Copyright 2001 by Channel 6000 .