The beauty industry is constantly growing, with billions of dollars in consumer spending each year. While home beauty treatments are continuously evolving, the events of 2020 and the global pandemic have pushed many consumers to take their beauty treatments into their own hands.
Teeth whitening kits, in particular, have become more popular in the past two years. However, many people are hesitant to try tooth whitening at home.
If you're wondering if this treatment is right for you, here are some pros and cons of teeth whitening kits to guide the decision-making process.
Pro: Cosmetically Pleasing
The primary benefit of using a teeth whitening kit is that it's perceived as cosmetically pleasing. Many people associate whiter teeth with beauty, thus boosting their self-confidence when using a whitener. While some treatments may help mitigate bacteria, the health benefits are nominal.
Using a teeth whitening kit is a great option for those who feel self-conscious about their smile or consume staining beverages like coffee and wine.
Con: Unnecessary
The overarching pitfall of using teeth whitening kits is that they're unnecessary cosmetic treatments, as they offer no health benefits. This causes some to believe that they're a waste of money. There are also concerns about trying certain teeth whitening kits at home without consulting a dental expert. Those who have underlying issues with their teeth or purchase something that hasn't been regulated or approved of could put themselves at risk for damage.
Those who are self-conscious about their smiles in photos can always learn how to whiten teeth in a selfie using a basic photo editing app. Additionally, cutting back on staining beverages and using a dentist-approved whitening toothpaste can help.
Pro: Affordable
Teeth whitening kits are considerably more affordable than a proper dental treatment. As cosmetic treatments are rarely covered by insurance, seeing a dental expert for tooth whitening can be costly.
When choosing a teeth whitening kit for at-home use, cheaper isn't always better. Take some time to research the options, read customer reviews, and find a reliable product that falls within your budget.
Con: Could Exacerbate Tooth Sensitivity
While most teeth whitening kits are believed to be entirely harmless to the general population, those with existing tooth sensitivity should be cautious. There have been reports of people with tooth sensitivity using home whitening kits and experiencing an increase in pain and responsiveness to triggers.
If you have sensitive teeth, talk to your dentist before purchasing a tooth whitening kit. They'll be able to provide guidance on what ingredients to look out for.
Pro: Fast-Acting
Depending on the type of product used, teeth whitening kits are relatively fast-acting. Some products start to show improvements within the first few days, offering a brighter, whiter smile within a week or two. Of course, cutting beverages that contribute to staining and discoloration can help speed up the process.
Con: Temporary Results
Finally, it's important to understand that using a tooth whitening kit won't yield permanent results. The effects are temporary, and the lifespan depends on whether you opt for continued use and what beverages you consume.
Many of the at-home whitening kits depend on this temporary fix to encourage you to spend more. As a result, the kits may not be as affordable as you originally thought.
Should You Get a Teeth Whitening Kit?
There's no shame in spending money on yourself to feel better when it's financially sustainable to do so. Getting a teeth whitening kit for special events or to remove some stains can boost your self-confidence and leave you feeling great. However, before you purchase a kit, be sure to talk to your dentist and read customer reviews. Purchase something high-quality to avoid damage.
