DIY teeth whitening isn’t always the best choice because it is all too easy to make common mistakes.

When you want whiter teeth, you basically have two options: you could turn to our dentist in Texarkana for professional whitening or you could whiten your teeth yourself at home. DIY teeth whitening can be an incredibly tempting because it is fairly affordable and you can do it in the comfort of your own home, but did you know that DIY teeth whitening mistakes are common? Here are a few of the DIY whitening mistakes we encounter the most often:

Mistake #1. You don’t consult with your dentist.

Whether you are getting professional whitening or doing it at home by yourself, it’s important to talk to your dentist before whitening your teeth. Believe it or not, not everyone is a good candidate for teeth whitening, and if you don’t see your dentist first, you could end up doing more harm than good.

Mistake #2. You don’t look for the FDA seal.

Even DIY whitening products can get expensive at the store, which is why it is so tempting to purchase whitening kits and products online. However, not all products that you find online are approved by the FDA, and if the product you choose doesn’t have the FDA seal, it may contain chemicals that could damage your teeth.

Mistake #3. You try to whiten your teeth “naturally.”

Natural teeth whitening is a popular trend right now, but be careful about what you put on your teeth. For instance, charcoal is a popular DIY whitening choice, and while it may get rid of surface stains, there is also some evidence that it can harm the enamel in your teeth.

Learn more DIY whitening mistakes when you stay tuned for our next blog!