If you have decided to start whitening your teeth at home, you may be ready to run to the store and grab the first kit you see. However, doing so could be a mistake and should be avoided. Read on to help avoid other mistakes you should avoid when using over-the-counter teeth whitening methods.

Neglecting to See Your Dentist First

Since you are planning on whitening your teeth at home, you may believe that it is unnecessary to go see your dentist first. After all, the whole point of doing it yourself is to keep from having to go to the dentist, right?

There are a couple of reasons that you definitely need to go see your dentist before you start whitening your teeth at home. First, the dentist can examine your teeth to make sure that they are healthy enough to whiten. If your enamel is starting to thin, or if you have cavities or tooth decay, this needs to be taken care of first to avoid further damage to your teeth.

Second, if your teeth are deemed healthy by the dentist, you should have a professional cleaning done before you start whitening. Having a slick, clean surface free from tartar buildup and plaque ensures you that you will have more even results.

Choosing a Product Not Approved by the ADA

After seeing your dentist and finding out that your teeth are healthy enough to be whitened, you may decide to stop by the store and pick up a kit. Since there are so many options, you may just pick up the cheapest or the easiest-looking kit you can find. After all, one kit is as good as another, right?

Not all home teeth whitening kits are created equal. Some brands do not have enough teeth whitening solution, such as carbamide peroxide, to whiten your teeth effectively. Others, however, may have uneven solutions, causing a higher concentration in certain areas that could damage your enamel or even burn your gums.

When searching for an at-home whitening product, try to find one that has the American Dental Association's (ADA) Seal of Acceptance. Searching for an acceptable kit before buying one can also ensure that you find a safe and effective over-the-counter whitening option.

Avoiding the above mistakes can help increase your chances of safely using an over-the-counter whitening kit at home. However, if you are uncertain about which kit to use or about performing the treatment yourself, speak with your cosmetic dentist for their recommendations.