Tag Archives: professional teeth whitening

Over-the-Counter Dental Products: How to Avoid Negative Results

July 12, 2022Cosmetic Dentistryinvisalign clear aligners, professional teeth whiteningDr. Charles R. Kimes

The Price of Success

With the rise of cosmetic dentistry in recent years, the dental field has seen many innovative new technologies that have taken the industry by storm! From Porcelain Veneers to Invisalign Aligners, to enhanced methods of teeth-whitening. Such new technologies have revolutionized professional dentistry and opened the door to a whole new realm of future smile possibilities. However, while the success of easily accessible and user-friendly cosmetic dental products are wonderful, they come at a price.

What price you may ask? Well, it’s the fact that some of these over-the-counter dental products have become bit too accessible.

If you were to visit your nearest convenience store or local pharmacy, you would inevitably discover a copious assortment of over-the-counter dental products (OTC) readily available for purchase. Indeed, OTC aligners and whitening-based products can sometimes yield the desired results; however, at Overland Park Dentistry we have had numerous cases of patients who have used OTC products in the past and have experienced a variety of complications from doing so. Therefore, in this article we will elaborate on some of the potential drawbacks associated with over-the-counter dental products, and how they could potentially trigger a host of unexpected and unwelcome problems!

Over-the-Counter Dental Products: Dangers of OTC & DIY Aligners

Although OTC aligners might initially appear to be a quick and inexpensive alternative to scheduling an appointment with a dentist, it’s important to realize that everyone’s smile is unique, thus having different requirements. While OTC aligners can be successful in making minor to moderate adjustments to a person’s teeth, realigning someone’s teeth is not as simple as it seems and can have far reaching implications should the treatment be administered incorrectly.

Because of this, a comprehensive oral exam is conducted by a dentist or orthodontist prior to a patient receiving aligners to ensure that the patient’s gums and teeth are healthy enough to undergo realignment treatment, and that the aligners will be custom fitted to meet the patient’s specific needs. However, by opting not to undergo the preliminary exam or to personally receive the necessary professional supervision, you could be setting yourself up for complications such as gum damage, tooth loss/displacement, root resorption, or severe bite problems (malocclusion). These complications can be extremely difficult or sometimes even impossible to correct, thereby causing even more oral health issues for the afflicted patient than they previously experienced.

While it’s true that the frequency in which such incidents occur has somewhat declined thanks to recent introduction of online ordered aligners, by no means is this a foolproof method. Indeed, custom DIY aligners ordered via online sources are statistically a safer option than OTC aligners, without the hands-on guidance of a professional you are STILL rolling the dice with your smile and ultimately running the risk of incurring complications.

Over-the-Counter Dental Products: OTC Whitening Trays & Strips

Before we delve into the matter, lets first briefly refresh everyone’s memory as to what exactly a tooth whitening is and why its done. As a strictly cosmetic procedure, whitening your teeth is the practice of removing any stains or discoloration your teeth may have. When you age, your teeth sustain a significant amount of wear and tear, thereby accumulating nicks and blemishes on the surface of your teeth. To remedy this, whitening products can be used to reverse the signs of aging, thus enhancing your smile’s appearance tenfold!

Unfortunately, we’ve seen the dangers our patients have incurred by grabbing the latest TicTok craze in a box at the convenience store, instead of seeking professional teeth whitening. We’d like to focus on four of the most common OTC whitening dangers.

Over-the-Counter Dental Products: Teeth Whitening Dangers

OTC Teeth Whitening Danger 1: Abuse and Overuse

One of the most common problems that can occur when you whiten your teeth without a professional overseeing your treatment is the potential for abuse or overuse of the bleaching agent. An over-the-counter kit does not include professional strength products, so it can only be so effective. Many adults want a whiter white and will leave the product on for a longer time than recommended, which leaves teeth at a higher risk of tooth sensitivity, worn tooth enamel, tooth decay, and other issues.

If you choose to use an OTC white strip product or any other bleaching kit, make sure to only use it as instructed on the directions. The results for most kits last approximately 7 to 14 days.

OTC Teeth Whitening Danger 2: Burns

An OTC bleaching kit that you purchase at the pharmacy does not contain customized products to fit your unique dental anatomy, unlike a professional whitening treatment. That means your gums are at risk of developing mild to severe burns, as the bleach can be held up to the soft oral tissues of the gums for as long as 30 minutes at a time.

In contrast, professional whitening is applied according to the specific dimensions of your teeth and gums. That makes it the safest possible choice for teeth whitening.

OTC Teeth Whitening Danger 3: Allergic Reactions

The risk of allergic reaction is always present with teeth whitening, even if it’s a minor risk. We’ve heard stories of lips that double in size from the swelling and of gums and lips that feel like they are burning for days. If you choose to whiten with an OTC product, you can avoid some of the risk of allergic reaction by consulting with your dentist first. We will discuss all allergies and your health history to ensure that you can safely move forward with a bleaching treatment.

OTC Teeth Whitening Danger 4: Sensitive Teeth

Sensitive teeth is something we see many people experience after they use OTC whitening products. It may be feeling a “zinger” while you are wearing the bleach during the treatment. Or it can linger as long-lasting sensitivity to cold and hot foods and beverages. We can help you avoid this sensitivity, as your dentist will be able to make special adjustments or recommendations to your treatment plan if you are at a high risk of developing teeth sensitivity.

Safe and Effective Aligners and Teeth Whitening

If you have questions about over-the-counter dental products, just ask us! Remember, the best way to ensure a healthy, straight, and bright smile, without damaging your gums, teeth, and bite during the process, is by scheduling your Smile Consultation appointment at Overland Park Dentistry. We can discuss your smile goals, oral health, and budget to decide which method of teeth straightening and whitening is the best for you and your smile.

Local dentist, Dr. Charles R. Kimes, DDS, and his team at Overland Park Dentistry look forward to having the opportunity to care for you and your family with preventative, restorative or cosmetic dentistry treatments. To schedule your dental appointment with your Overland Park Dentist, contact us at our south Overland Park office at (913) 647-8700 or our north Overland Park office at (913) 341-2380.

Cosmetic Dental Options to Enhance Your Smile

January 26, 2021Cosmetic Dentistrydental bonding, dental crown, dental implant, invisible braces, professional teeth whiteningDr. Charles R. Kimes

Goodbye 2020 … HELLO 2021!!

2020 Is finally over and it’s the dawn of a new day, and while 2020 wasn’t the year many of us hoped it would be, with 2021 comes the promise and encouragement of a fresh, new start! How do cosmetic dental options fit into New Year Resolutions? Let’s dive in…

For many of us, a fresh start can mean a multitude of things; maybe 2021 will be the year you receive that big job opportunity that you’ve worked so hard for, or maybe 2021 will be the year that you finally realize your fitness goals and attain that toned physique that you’ve been dreaming of.

Indeed, having a set list of new year’s resolutions is a fantastic way to start off a new year. However, in this article, we would like to discuss an equally as important, but very personal goal that you might want to consider accomplishing this year as well.

Don’t Hide Your Smile

While it might not come as a big surprise to hear that there are many people unhappy with their smile, what you may not know is that one third of Americans today, report being dissatisfied or even self-conscious about their teeth! Regardless, whether it’s the color, shape, or alignment of your teeth; if your smile is not up to par, it can certainly be a major source of embarrassment or anxiety.

If you or anyone you know of struggles with such a dilemma, then perhaps 2021 is the year to change that. In this article we will discuss the numerous cosmetic dental options and procedures that we offer at Overland Park Dentistry, and how these procedures can help you enjoy 2021 with a smile!

Cosmetic Dentistry Options: The Six to Fix!

Although “cosmetic dentistry” is sometimes written off as strictly appearance-based dentistry, in fact it is something of an umbrella term. Cosmetic Dentistry encompasses multiple procedures, which are performed for a wide variety of different purposes. These purposes, (while cosmetic in nature) can improve one’s oral heath, and overall quality of life, not to mention boost self-confidence.

In the section below, we list six different cosmetic dental options, and how they can help enhance and improve your smile.

1. Professional Teeth Whitening

As you may have read in our previous blogs, professional teeth whitening is a relatively simple procedure that is performed to diminish any staining or discoloration that your teeth may have. As we age, our teeth sustain a certain amount of wear tear over the years which will give them a worn-down, dull appearance. However, by having your teeth professionally whitened, you can reverse this process and restore your smile to its youthful glory!

2. Invisalign Invisible Braces

As one of the premier services provided by Overland Park Dentistry, Invisalign is an innovative new technology that has changed many of the tried-and-true methods in both dentistry and orthodontics. Invisalign are transparent custom fitted aligners that are designed to straighten and ultimately realign your teeth. The purpose of the Invisalign device is not only to improve the aesthetic appearance of your teeth, but also to correct any jaw alignment issues or irregularities, such as underbite, overbite, crossbite, and more.

3. Porcelain Veneers

Despite a seemingly simplistic appearance, dental veneers are designed for the complex task of not only creating a seemingly pristine smile, but to simultaneously shield your teeth from hazardous outside elements as well. Appearing as a clear, soft, porcelain covering, veneers can be fitted on your upper and lower teeth, thereby creating a sort of protective skin that surrounds the outer layer of your teeth.

4. Dental Implants

While not a treatment that is typically associated with cosmetic dentistry, it’s obvious that implants can provide significant cosmetic improvement to your smile if you are missing a tooth. Typically made from titanium, dental implants are screw-like devices which are attached to the crown via a connector and can be designed to support single or multiple crowns, ultimately resulting in a sturdy replacement that looks and functions like natural teeth.

Related Article: Tooth Replacement with Dental Implants

5. Dental Crowns

Dental crowns (or fillings) are not necessarily applied for strictly cosmetic purposes; however, you cannot deny the cosmetic benefits that a dental crown can provide. As you probably know, a crown is a composite cap that is fitted over a damaged or decayed tooth after it has been treated and sealed; this completes treatment of a large cavity, root canal or dental implant. Designed to resemble the tooth’s previous appearance, a crown is created to restore the tooth cosmetically, and protect it from incurring any future damage.

Related Article: Reasons You May Need a Dental Crown

6. Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is an easy and relatively inexpensive procedure in which a composite resin is applied to a damaged or decayed tooth, ultimately to repair and restore the tooth to its former self. While bonding is generally used to repair chips and cracks in teeth, it can also be done to fill in troublesome gaps, close spaces between teeth, and reshape teeth.

Related Article: Teeth Bonding: What You Need to Know!

A New Year, A New You!

With an entire new year in front of us, 2021 has the potential to be whatever you want it to be! So, if you find yourself feeling self-conscious about your smile, why not make this the year for a change?

Please contact our offices at Overland Park Dentistry, so we can help keep you smiling all year long!

Local dentist, Dr. Charles R. Kimes, DDS, and his team at Overland Park Dentistry look forward to having the opportunity to care for you and your family with preventative, restorative or cosmetic dentistry. To schedule your dental appointment with your Overland Park Dentist, contact us at our south Overland Park office at (913) 647-8700 or our north Overland Park office at (913) 341-2380.

Teeth Whitening FAQ: Is it the Fountain of Youth?

December 17, 2019Cosmetic Dentistryprofessional teeth whitening, teeth whiteningDr. Charles R. Kimes

In 1513, noted Spanish conquistador and explorer, Ponce de Leon, set out in search of a mystical spring known as the “Fountain of Youth” and while he was successful in discovering what we now know as the state of Florida, the quest in discovering a way to reverse one’s age, still continues to this day. Unlike Ponce de Leon however, the dental industry has discovered a way to reverse the appearance of aging in teeth, and for years has been restoring the smiles of patients of all ages with this method! Known as Teeth Whitening, the process is considered one of the primary components of modern cosmetic dentistry and remains a highly sought-after treatment amongst our patients at Overland Park Dentistry.

Teeth Whitening In A Nutshell

A tooth whitening is a strictly cosmetic-based procedure and, in a nutshell, could be summed up as more of a bleaching process rather than a recoloration. As a person ages, their teeth will inevitably accumulate a certain number of nicks and blemishes, due to the amount wear and tear that they sustain over the years. To remedy this, a professional whitening treatment is administered, in which your dentist applies a bleaching agent to the surface of your teeth. This process typically lasts approximately thirty minutes and for best results, may require a follow up appointment.

However, due to the growing demand for a pearly white picturesque smile, there are always many questions surrounding the whitening procedure that Dr. Kimes and his team address on a regular basis. In this article, we have compiled some of the most frequently asked questions and concerns surrounding this treatment as we address these questions and provide a little more insight into the process.

Teeth Whitening FAQ: Commonly Asked Questions

Q: Is whitening your teeth safe?

A: If preformed by or under the guidance of a professional dentist, then yes, a whitening is a safe and relatively painless procedure that will produce a whiter and more attractive smile. However, over the counter (OTC) whitening products are generally not recommended by dental practitioners and have been known to cause problems amongst users in the past.

Q: How long does a teeth whiting last?

A: The longevity of a whitening treatment may potentially last for a couple of years, however this varies depending on your lifestyle. If you are a daily smoker or do not practice proper oral hygiene habits, your newly whitened teeth can begin to fade in as little as a month. If you are a healthy nonsmoker who maintains their dental hygiene, you will probably not require another whitening treatment for a few years.

Q: Are there other ways to whiten my teeth besides a professional whitening?

A: Yes. However as mentioned earlier, the alternative to a professional tooth whitening comes in the form of name brand whitening or strips, that are not recommended by dental practitioners and have resulted in users suffering blistering or bleeding gums. Additionally, OTC whitening products are not nearly as effective as professional grade ingredients, which are required to have received the ADA Seal of Acceptance prior to being used in a professional capacity.

Check out what happens when technology and tooth whitening join forces with an at-home whitening kit that is “Dr. Kimes Approved”: No More Whitening Trays with Glo Pro Teeth Whitening

Q: Will insurance cover the cost of my teeth whitening?

A: Unfortunately, they do not. While certainly many insurance providers offer a number of great dental benefits, because a professional whitening is a cosmetic based procedure, they do not provide coverage for dental whitening treatments.

Q: Do professional whitening products damage tooth enamel?

A: Absolutely not! Professional whiting products have no harmful effects on tooth enamel, nor should they have any adverse effects on a tooth’s nerves or hinder any pre-existing dental restorations.

Q: Is there anything I can do to maintain my newly whitened smile?

A: Yes! To maintain or elongate the affects there are a number of things that you can do. Practicing proper oral hygiene habits, as well as brushing after every meal (especially after consuming sugary or acidic foods) can play a major role to help prolong the whitening affects. Additionally, avoiding acidic beverages or using a straw while consuming them will help keep the hazardous products from staining your teeth, and certainly it’s recommended to avoid tobacco use.

Restore Your Smile!

At Overland Park Dentistry, our team takes great pride in their ability to put smiles on the faces of our patients, and they can certainly do the same for you! If your beautiful smile has suffered from the affects of aging or stains, come see us at Overland Park Dentistry and let’s restore your smile together!

Local dentist, Dr. Charles R. Kimes, DDS, and his team at Overland Park Dentistry look forward to having the opportunity to care for you and your family with preventative, restorative or cosmetic dentistry. To schedule your dental appointment with your Overland Park Dentist, contact us at our south Overland Park office at (913) 647-8700 or our north Overland Park office at (913) 341-2380.

Professional Teeth Whitening: Get the Smile of Your Dreams

February 12, 2019Cosmetic Dentistryin office teeth whitening, professional teeth whitening, teeth whiteningDr. Charles R. Kimes

It’s the dawn of a new year, and what better way to greet the new year than with a smile? While certainly smiling can go a long way in starting 2019 on a positive note, if you are unhappy with your smile or consider it a source of embarrassment, this might be an issue for you.

While it varies from person to person, perhaps the most common issue amongst people pertains to the color of their teeth. Fortunately, much like 2018 such issues with your smile can soon be a thing of the past. In the consistently evolving world of modern cosmetic dentistry, much can be done to remedy this issue and minimize any stains, blemishes, or sighs of aging that your teeth may have incurred.

If you were to imagine your

ideal smile …

What would it look like?

We’re willing to guess that it would be a beautiful, pearly white masterpiece, or what’s sometimes referred to as the “classic Hollywood smile.” While this may seem far-fetched, thanks to our professional teeth whitening service offered here at Overland Park Dentistry, the smile of your dreams may only be an appointment away!

Professional Teeth Whitening: How It’s Done

Although DIY whitening strips and trays can be purchased at local convenience stores, for the safest and most effective results, utilizing a professional teeth whitening service is your best option. This is a very common dental procedure that can be performed by your dentist in approximately 60 minutes, depending on the severity of the staining and will almost certainly produce the desired result.

In preparation for your whitening, a dentist or hygienist will first need to give your teeth a basic cleaning, to remove any bacteria or plaque buildup that may have accumulated around them.

Once cleaned, a hard resin is administered to protect the gums, shortly followed by a hydrogen peroxide gel which is applied to each tooth. The gel remains coated on the teeth for around twenty minuets as the substance bleaches the teeth to a whiter shade while simultaneously diluting any stains or discoloration they have accumulated.

Once the first coat is removed, a second coat of bleaching gel is applied, and the process is repeated once more to maximize the solution’s effectiveness and achieve the best results.

After your professional teeth whitening treatment is fully complete, your teeth may feel tingly and strange; however, this sensation should subside shortly.

Additionally, your dentist may suggest that you temporarily avoid certain food products, as the artificial dyes in some products may hinder the progress. Although you smile will be noticeably whiter after the treatment, you may be required to return for a follow up exam as it will likely take a matter of days for the treatment to take full effect. Upon your next appointment, your dentist will examine the overall effectiveness of the procedure, to determine if any adjustments are to be made or if any future recommendations are necessary.

Professional Teeth Whitening… Start 2019 With A Smile!

It’s the dawn of a new year, and as we said before, what better way to greet the new year than with a smile? Smiling is one of the simplest joys in life and nothing should keep you from smiling in 2019.

So, if pesky stains and blemishes on your teeth have you frowning, our team of specialists at Overland Park Dentistry is here to help! For questions or more information on professional teeth whitening or any of our cosmetic services, please contact our offices and smile brightly in in this new year!

Dr. Charles R. Kimes, DDS and his expert team at Overland Park Dentistry look forward to having the opportunity to care for you and your family with any preventative, restorative or cosmetic dentistry options for you or your family may have. To schedule your dental appointment with your Overland Park Dentist, contact us at our south Overland Park office at (913) 647-8700 or our north Overland Park office at 913-341-2380.