Teeth Whitening Side Effects and Risks
Tooth whitening is the most common cosmetic service provided by dentists. But, although it’s popular, many of us wonder about the safety of teeth whitening.
Teeth whitening is safe and effective, when done as prescribed. But, it’s important to understand how to whiten teeth safely and how to manage side effects, should they occur.
Perhaps the most important step - and one that may come as a surprise - is making an appointment with your dentist, even if you plan on using over-the-counter products. It’s important that your teeth are in good condition before whitening and only a dentist can tell for sure.
This crucial step can help avoid complications. For example, a loose filling may allow the whitening agent to seep into the tooth’s root, causing extreme pain. Damage to the root could cause tooth sensitivity, or even a root canal infection.
If you are looking for a cosmetic dentist in the Bloomington area to discuss teeth whitening side effects, you should consider callingDrs. Jay W. Chrisman and David D. Wyse. They can examine your teeth to ensure they are safe to whiten and also advise you on how to avoid side effects, even if you plan on using over-the-counter products. They also offer professional whitening that can brighten your teeth up to eight shades in just an hour.
In addition to checking your teeth for issues that can cause problems, a dentist can also remove plaque to improve results. Plaque can cause mottled results by preventing the whitening agent from reaching the tooth enamel.
Side Effects and Risks
- Tooth Sensitivity. Whitening can cause temporary sensitivity in teeth, which usually disappears in a day or two. People whose teeth are normally sensitive should discuss teeth whitening with a dentist before proceeding.
- Gum Sensitivity. This happens when whitening gel comes in contact with the gums. Gum sensitivity is temporary. It can be avoided by keeping the whitening agent off the gums or by modifying treatment length. If you have gum disease, you may not be a good candidate for whitening or may be advised to use a professional treatment that allows your dentist to monitor and manage complications.
- Different Results. Due to a variety of factors, not everyone has the same results with teeth whitening. How white your teeth become may depend on:
- How naturally white your teeth are. Teeth cannot be whitened beyond their original color.
- Type of discoloration.Yellow-colored teeth usually respond well to whitening. Gray stains are the most difficult to whiten.
- Multi-Hued Teeth. If you have dental restorations, such as a crown or veneer, you should understand that whiteners will not change the color of restorations. If you whiten your teeth, the restorations will no longer match.
- Misuse Or Overuse. Some “bleachaholics” become addicted to teeth whitening, unaware that teeth whitening too long or too often can permanently damage teeth. At an extreme, it can destroy your tooth enamel, which cannot be restored.
Are You A Good Candidate?
If you would like to brighten your smile, but want to ensure your teeth are in good condition so you avoid complications associated with teeth whitening, please call us today.