Is Teeth Whitening Bad for Your Teeth?
Teeth stains or discoloration can result from old age, dental trauma, certain medications, tooth decay, smoking, poor dental hygiene, and high consumption of pigmented items. Fortunately, there are safe ways to make your teeth brighter and whiter. If you’re considering whitening your teeth, you should begin by consulting with your dentist.
The dentist will examine the stains you have and recommend the most appropriate whitening treatments. If you’re wondering whether teeth whitening is safe and if you should try it, this article points out important details about teeth whitening and how you can do it safely.
Is Teeth Whitening Safe: Teeth Whitening Procedures
Teeth whitening is by all means safe. There are numerous products and techniques available to whiten teeth. There are four major types of whitening treatments, including:
- In-office teeth whitening
In-office whitening is offered in the dentist’s office and only takes about 1-2 hours. It’s very effective, safe, and quick, and the results tend to last longer than alternative methods. Before bleaching your teeth, the dentist begins by cleaning and smoothening your teeth to remove plaque and tartar. Next, they apply a bleaching solution to the stained teeth.
The bleaching agents used contain higher hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide concentrations than at-home whitening products. The treatment is effective and quick. The dentist might need to use a special light or laser to quicken the process. You may only need one whitening appointment. Since a professional offers the treatment, there is a low risk of complications.
- At-home treatment through the dentist
Still, you can whiten your teeth safely at home with your dentist’s help. The dentist can give you customized trays and whitening gel at home. You’ll have to put the gel in the trays and wear it for about 30 minutes to one hour daily, as directed by the dentist. The gel contains lower concentrations of bleaching agents than in-clinic whitening. The treatment takes a few weeks to show results.
- Over-the-counter whitening products
Another option to whiten your teeth is with over-the-counter whitening products. Unlike whitening products by your dentist, these products have low concentrations of bleaching agents. If you have severe teeth stains, the treatment might not work as effectively, may take longer, or might not work altogether.
Keep in mind that not all these products are safe. Check for the product’s approval from reputable institutions such as the American Dental Association. While some products without seals might be safe and effective, it’s not worth the risk. Also, to minimize the risk of complications, make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions exactly. Over-the-counter whitening products include whitening toothpaste, trays, strips, and mouthwashes.
- Home-based whitening products
If you’re curious about home remedies for teeth whitening, activated charcoal is a popular option. Other popular options include lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and pineapples. Please note that these methods aren’t scientifically proven, and you should consult your dentist before using them. If misused, they can erode the teeth’ enamel, making you vulnerable to cavities and tooth decay.
Side effects of teeth whitening
Teeth whitening is generally safe when done correctly. However, it is not without side effects. Wrong whitening products and techniques can lead to:
- Teeth sensitivity
- Gum irritation and sensitivity
- Etching of teeth
- Enamel erosion
- Increased risk of cavities and tooth decay
- Increased risk of tooth chips, fractures, and breaks
It’s best to opt for professional teeth whitening or at-home whitening kits from your dentist. Similarly, it’s better to prevent staining and re-staining. Remember that whitening your teeth too often will make you vulnerable to the side effects discussed above. To keep your teeth looking bright and whiter:
- Brush twice daily
- Avoid tobacco products
- Avoid or limit your intake of highly pigmented items such as coffee, berries, and tea or rinse your mouth afterward if you must take these items.
- Avoid colored dental products.
- Avoid whitening your teeth regularly.
- Avoid sugary and acidic foods. These foods erode the teeth’ enamel, making you susceptible to stains.
Final Verdict
It takes to whiten your teeth safely depending on the teeth whitening treatment. Whitening your teeth with your dentist is typically the safest option to whiten your teeth. For more information about teeth whitening treatments, contact Westwood Dental Group.