Categories: Teeth Whitening

Safety of Teeth Whitening

Many people undergo teeth whitening procedures to make their smile look healthier and to increase their self-esteem. Although this procedure is largely painless unless you have very sensitive teeth, it is common to question the safety of products used to whiten your teeth. 

Safety of teeth whitening

The safety of whitening procedures depends on many factors. Here are some common questions and concerns related to teeth whitening to help you determine whether or not you are comfortable with this optional procedure. 

What products and ingredients are used?

Products used for whitening may include toothpaste, gels, strips, or trays that are used to whiten teeth at home or professional whitening treatments that you undergo at a dental office. 

Many of the ingredients that you see in products such as whitening toothpaste only polish the teeth to remove stains on the surface. They may include ingredients such as silica or pyrophosphate. These ingredients are not meant to change the color of the teeth but can help make your teeth appear whiter over time. 

Some whitening toothpaste use hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which are bleaching agents that do change the color of the enamel of the teeth. These ingredients work more quickly than surface stain removers. These are the same ingredients that are used in at-home whitening kits and at the dental office for professional whitening treatments. 

Could I see any adverse side effects from these ingredients?

A common side effect of whitening treatments is tooth sensitivity. This is at least partially due to the exposure of tooth pulp to the ingredient peroxide, and all methods of teeth whitening have the potential to cause sensitivity. While uncomfortable, this side effect is generally mild and only lasts for a short period of time. Using lower concentrations of whitening ingredients can help mitigate feelings of sensitivity in teeth and gums. 

Another side effect of whitening treatments is gingival irritation or redness and swelling of your gums near the base of your teeth. This side effect can be lessened with the proper application of gels and other whitening products, as would be done at a dental office. Like tooth sensitivity, many people with this side effect report that it was mild and short-lasting. 

Can teeth whitening damage tooth enamel?

Tooth enamel is the hardest tissue in your body. However, it also contains very small hollow rods or tubes that extend to the dentin layer beneath the enamel. These microscopic openings allow stain-causing substances to penetrate the enamel and be absorbed by the dentin. Teeth whitening products penetrate the enamel in the same way, allowing them to act on the dentin layer. The American Dental Association considers these products to be safe and non-damaging to the enamel of the teeth.

Can lost enamel be restored?

Tooth enamel is translucent; however, when it is lost, teeth may appear more yellow, because the dentin layer underneath becomes more visible. Some products promise to whiten teeth by restoring lost enamel. However, the enamel is not living tissue, and the lost enamel will not grow back. Fluoride toothpaste can push phosphates and calcium into the teeth to harden enamel which may help prevent additional enamel loss. Additionally, your dentist can apply a plastic sealant that provides additional enamel protection. Lifestyle changes, such as reducing your consumption of sugar and carbonated sodas, may also help preserve your existing enamel.

Are teeth whitening products safe long term?

Research suggests that whitening products are safe. However, the whitening effects do not last indefinitely. Most home whitening treatments last for a few months. Professional whitening treatments may last two to three years. Patients who wish to achieve long-term results must address the underlying cause of the discoloration or repeat their treatments.

Are at-home kits or professional treatments better?

While at-home whitening kits may be more convenient and less expensive than professional whitening treatments, professional treatments generally contain stronger ingredients, work more quickly, and last for a longer time than do at-home treatments. When you undergo treatment at a dental office, they can help alleviate any side effects that you may have, including tooth sensitivity or gingival irritation. Partly for those reasons, undergoing teeth whitening at a dental office is considered to be safer.

Conclusion

If directions are followed and the ingredients are applied properly, teeth whitening treatments are considered to be safe and effective. Professional treatments are the safer option compared to at-home treatments. Watch for side effects and contact your dentist if you have any concerns, either after an at-home treatment or after a professional treatment. 

Request an appointment here: https://www.alluredentistry.com or call Allure Dentistry at (310) 683-5321 for an appointment in our Los Angeles office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Teeth Whitening in Los Angeles, CA.

Recent Posts

Teeth Whitening Treatment From Your Dentist

Teeth whitening can change your smile and your life. Over-the-counter products promise whiter teeth after weeks of continuous use. This may be fine for some people, but others want quick results. If you want to know more about teeth whitening from your dentist, here are the details.Many people are fond of taking different dental whitening…

Understanding Professional Teeth Whitening

If you have been dissatisfied with the shade of your smile for some time, it may be time to consider professional teeth whitening. Though there are many tooth whiteners available over the counter, procedures performed or supplied by a dentist typically work faster and have longer-lasting results.There is a lot of demand for professional teeth…

How Long Do Teeth Whitening Results Last?

Teeth whitening is the practice of using certain substances, such as hydrogen peroxide, to brighten the color of a patient's teeth. Professional teeth whitening treatments can help people enjoy better results than at-home kits for a whiter and brighter smile, and with fewer side effects as well. How long the treatment lasts depends on a…

Life After Teeth Whitening Treatments

Teeth whitening treatments can have life-changing benefits that affect your personal and professional life. The condition of your teeth is one of the most noticeable things about your physical appearance, and having a smile you can be proud of gives you a confidence boost.You will no longer find yourself smiling with your mouth closed or…

Allure Dentistry

Share
Published by
Allure Dentistry

Recent Posts

Importance of Teeth Cleanings for Routine Dental Care

Professional teeth cleaning is an important aspect of routine dental care. In addition to practicing…

4 days ago

Dentist Near Me: Comprehensive Care for Oral Health

Looking for a dentist who practices comprehensive oral care can be daunting. But finding the…

7 days ago

How To Fit Routine Dental Care Into Your Schedule

Many people may believe that they do not have time for routine dental care, which…

2 weeks ago

How Often Do I Need Routine Dental Care

Routine dental care is one of the most important factors contributing to good dental health.…

3 weeks ago

Tips for Daily Oral Hygiene Before Your Next Routine Dental Care Visit

Regular visits to the dentist for routine dental care are an important part of maintaining…

4 weeks ago

Tips for Making the Most of Your Routine Dental Care Appointments

Routine dental care is vital for anyone striving to achieve optimum health. Dentists recommend two…

1 month ago