Whitening is a popular treatment that promises to lighten your teeth and improve the overall appearance of your smile. However, you should be aware that whiteners can damage teeth if they are used incorrectly.
Here we take a look at what you need to know about tooth whitening and the potential risks involved:
Your Guide to Teeth Whitening & Potential Risks
When Not to Use Whitening
It’s important not to use whiteners on broken or sensitive teeth as it can exacerbate any existing problems. If your gums bleed when you brush or floss, you shouldn’t undergo any whitening treatments until this bleeding has stopped. Teeth marked with fillings, crowns, or other dental work may become temporarily more noticeable after using a whitener, but the effects aren’t permanent and will fade over time. You should speak to your dentist before undergoing any whitening treatments if you have receding gums, as this will make it difficult for the whitener to reach the affected areas.
Foods May Stain Teeth
The teeth whitening process involves placing the bleaching agent directly onto your teeth, so it’s important to avoid eating or drinking anything for 30 minutes before and after treatment. Once the treatment is complete, you should again refrain from eating or drinking for at least one hour. You also need to be careful about what you eat afterward as staining foods such as blueberries and black currants can cause long-term discoloration.
Twice a Year is Enough
You can prevent further damage by avoiding using whiteners more than twice a year, and never share your whitening trays with other people as this may transfer bacteria to your teeth. It’s important to remember that tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body and doesn’t heal itself easily, so it’s essential to protect it from damage which can have a lasting impact on your oral health. Your dentist is here to help you decide if whitening treatments are right for you, and can advise on the best way to protect your teeth before and after treatment.
Be Aware of All Risks Prior to Treatment
Make sure you’re aware of the risks involved with any kind of bleaching treatment as they do carry certain risks. Only undergo such therapies as part of a regular examination at a recognized medical center. Your dentist will ensure your teeth are healthy enough for whitening, providing thorough advice about how to prepare before applying trays or strips. You can also discuss your wide range of general and cosmetic dentistry procedures that might provide a better solution for enhancing the appearance of your smile.
Prepare for Your Treatment Correctly
Before applying any whiteners, dentists recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush with fluoride toothpaste to keep your teeth clean and plaque-free; avoid overly abrasive toothpaste that can damage enamel. You should then brush with cool water the dentist applies the whitener in thin layers during a series of regular visits. The entire process usually lasts between two and six weeks.
Only Go to a Leading Dentist
You should be aware that tooth enamel contains no living cells, so it doesn’t heal itself. This means that any mistakes or unprofessional whitening procedures may lead to damage that is irreparable. Your dentist will provide you with quality care and use methods that are safe for all of you, making your wellbeing our priority.
While whitening is a common process for many patients, there are a few caveats with it. Your best course of action is to speak to your dentist about it and how it might affect your teeth. The more information you have, the better a decision you will make.