It is estimated that worldwide, millions of teeth-whitening pens are bought annually. Individuals whitening their smiles are choosing to do this at home, leading one to wonder what the pros and cons of teeth-whitening pens are.
For people with stained teeth, the days of embarrassment and hiding their teeth are over. You can pick up a whitening pen almost anywhere and whiten your teeth yourself.
Teeth-whitening pens are easy to use and can be used at your convenience. They can remove anything from wine and coffee stains to nicotine from your teeth. Their size makes it easy to slip into your pocket, purse, or backpack and go. But before you go out and purchase one, you should know the benefits and disadvantages of these pens.
How Teeth-whitening Pens Work
Teeth-whitening pens have several strengths, allowing you to choose how white you want your teeth. Most pens use carbamide or hydrogen peroxide as the whitening agent applied to your teeth with a gel applicator. The applicator helps get the whitener in all the hard-to-reach places and applies the proper whitener to the tooth’s surface. The pens work best after you have brushed your teeth, flossed, and your teeth are dry.
Once your teeth are clean, apply the whitening gel to the stains, then wait the designated amount of time. Most whiteners stay on the teeth for ten to thirty minutes. Once the time is up, you rinse your mouth until all the gel is gone.
Some whitening pens come with an LED, which helps to speed the process up. You should see results after several applications. Be sure to read the instructions on the package before using it because not all whitening pens are the same!
Benefits and Disadvantages of Teeth-Whitening Pens
While whitening pens are convenient, easy to use, and can be bought almost anywhere, there are benefits and disadvantages of teeth-whitening pens, that need to be considered.
Whitening Pen Pros
Whitening pens don’t require a dental appointment. This alone makes them cheaper than going to the dentist. Be sure to read the instructions carefully to maximum results.
The pens are slim and small, making them easily portable, and they can go with you anywhere.
Their cost allows you to get a whitening pen for about eight dollars. There are also multi-packs and pens with LED lights that cost up to eighty dollars.
The pen’s applicators let you place the whitening gel where you need it most, so you are not wasting the gel or whitening your teeth where there are no noticeable stains.
Some whitening pens whiten your teeth within the first week of use.
Unlike whitening strips and Tray whiteners, there is no mess or messy cleanup. You apply the gel on the teeth and let it dry while it whitens your teeth.
Whitening Pen Cons
Whitening pens are not for everyone; some disadvantages should be considered. Like anything else, there are side effects to teeth whitening pens.
Teeth whitening pens are less effective than dental clinic whiteners and don’t always remove deep-seated stains.
You may need to look at all pen options before choosing the one you need. You may also have to try several on your teeth before finding one that will give you the best results.
The whitening agents in the gel pens can cause sensitivity. The gel works by penetrating your enamel to loosen and lift teeth stains. For people prone to sensitive teeth, this is definitely a disadvantage. You should follow the manufacturer’s instructions to get optimum results and fewer side effects. Discuss whitening pens with your dentist if you’re prone to sensitive teeth.
Things You Should Know
Teeth whitening pens are safe for your teeth if you follow the instructions. If you want results like dental cleaning in the office, these pens are not for you. They work well over time but do not produce the same results you get at a dental office.
Whitening applicators are soft-tipped or brushed, so they are not abrasive. The whitening gel is abrasion-free.
How often you need to use the pen depends on the product you buy, so check the instructions before you purchase a pen! Most whitening pens can be used every forty-eight hours for up to two weeks, depending on how your teeth tolerate the gel.
Whitening gel should never be used if you are pregnant or nursing, have cavities or gum disease, have tooth sensitivity, or have roots that are exposed.
Helpful Tips for Best Results
- Read and follow the instructions for best results and less sensitivity
- Brush and dry your teeth before whitening to ensure the gel will stick to your teeth
- Be sure the gel is spread evenly to avoid spotty results
- Wait half an hour before you eat or drink anything to make sure the whitener has enough time to work
- Don’t expect perfect results after one application. It took time to stain your teeth, so removing the stains with a whitening gel will take time!
The Easiest, Safest Way to Whiten Teeth
Call your dentist if you want a safe and easy way to whiten your teeth. Professional whitening may be more expensive, but it removes all the work and worry. You will get the best whitening without the teeth-whitening pen side effects when done professionally.
If you are in Cancun for vacation or are planning a trip to Cancun, set up a whitening appointment or have a full cleaning done at the Shtern Dental Clinic. Our Dental professionals offer years of experience and quality dental services in a calming atmosphere. We provide pain-free procedures to enhance your smile and create healthier oral care. Whether you’re interested in veneers in Cancun, periodontal services, dental implants, or root canal treatment, we are here to meet your needs. Visit us today and experience top-notch care from a trusted dental clinic in Cancun. Contact us today for a smile you can be proud of! Contact us today for a smile you can be proud of!
