Does Teeth Whitening Damage Your Teeth?

For quite some time, the search for a whiter smile has evolved into a multi-billion dollar industry. If you are thinking about getting your teeth whitened, it’s natural that you may have some questions about the procedure as well as pros and cons related to obtaining a brighter smile. Two of the most common questions dentists receive are: Is teeth whitening safe and is teeth whitening bad for your teeth?

Overall, whitening your teeth is a secure and efficient approach to getting rid of stains. If done properly, it won’t damage tooth enamel. As with any procedure, there may be some negative consequences. Additionally, it may not always be effective.

=> So, Is Teeth Whitening Permanent? Check out this blog post.

Patients must be aware of potential side effects and determine whether teeth whitening, specifically professional dental whitening, is appropriate for them.

How Does Teeth Whitening Work?

There are different methods for teeth whitening which include home remedies and the clinical approach. In-home teeth cleaning holds more risks and side effects since a professional dentist is not doing it. That is why it is strongly advised for individuals to consult a dentist before attempting to whiten their teeth at home.

For in-office teeth whitening, the dentist will create a mouthguard using a pattern of your teeth and guide you on how to use it throughout the teeth whitening treatment. Then the gel is regularly used for a specific period of time over a couple of weeks while wearing your mouthguard at home. The treatment period can be trimmed by utilizing whitening gels which can be used for up to eight hours at one time.

Another kind of teeth-whitening approach that a dentist may provide is laser whitening, also known as power whitening. Your teeth would be covered with a bleaching product, which is then activated by a laser or light. It usually takes about an hour or so to do laser whitening.

=> If you’re wondering How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last? Check out this blog post.

Does Teeth Whitening Damage Your Teeth?

One of the most common questions asked by patients considering teeth whitening is if it can damage your teeth. The answer is no. Teeth whitening does not damage your teeth. But, there are specific situations in which patients should exercise caution. Remember these potential negative effects:

Irritation of Soft Tissue

The mouth’s gums and other soft tissues could become irritated by the chemicals used to whiten teeth. When doing teeth whitening, a dentist first coats the gums with a barrier-forming material to prevent contact with the whitening solution.

Chemical burns can occur when bleaching chemicals are applied to sensitive tissues for an extended period of time or if the liquid is overly strong. After therapy, this could manifest as white spots on the gum tissue. Inflammation, a burning feeling, and in the most severe instances, pain and bleeding, might also occur.

Similar to tooth sensitivity, gum inflammation often subsides quickly. If a patient has a record of gum disease or gingivitis, it is something to watch out for.

Exacerbating Current Issues

While teeth whitening doesn’t harm tooth enamel on its own, it can have negative effects if the plaque is already fragile. It’s not a good idea to have whitening treatments if your enamel has eroded or if you have cavities.

Whitening products penetrate teeth, thus they will enter any holes left by cavities because of how they act. This may result in excruciating pain depending on how large the hollow is. The root may also be harmed, and in rare circumstances, even killed.

This is why getting a thorough dental exam before beginning any whitening procedures is crucial. In order to prevent discomfort and additional harm, any cavities should be repaired and filled first.

Are Your Teeth Ready for Teeth Whitening Treatment?

Now that you know the advantages and possible disadvantages of teeth whitening you can decide whether you are ready for it or not. Consulting a professional dentist should be the first step to safe teeth whitening.

Here at NYC Dental Smile, we are transforming the face of modern dentistry. Through a thorough, patient-centered philosophy, we consider dental care as a portal to general wellness. Simple as it is, our mission is at the center of all we do. To maintain our patients’ smiles while empowering, perfecting, and protecting their dental health.