Risks of Teeth Whitening: Get a Sparkling Smile,the Safe Way

Everyone wants a brilliant, white smile. These days, there are endless tricks and methods for teeth whitening, however the problem is that not all of these methods are safe. Before you try any smile enhancing tricks, do your research so you know what products, substances and methods to avoid.

 

Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth “whitening” is classified by any process or procedure performed with the goal of making tooth enamel appear whiter. The most commonly-utilized method to whiten teeth is known as bleaching, which uses carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide as active ingredients. While this method produces noticeable results, tooth sensitivity can occur during the initial stages of this bleaching treatment. The chemical reaction that occurs, which also aides in removing intrinsic stains, can also cause tooth sensitivity. In rare cases, it has even been known to generate irreversible tooth damage.

 

Soft Tissue Damage

In addition to tooth sensitivity, another commonly reported side effect of teeth whitening is soft tissue damage. According to a Phoenix AZ Invisalign Dentist, this can be caused by bleaching trays that are ill-fitting, allowing the peroxide to reach sensitive mouth tissue. Mild irritation is often experienced in the gums, and usually subsides within 1 to 3 days thereafter. Though tooth sensitivity and soft tissue damage are painful and common, they are usually temporary and short-lived.

 

Enamel Erosion

In order to effectively eliminate stains, many whitening products eliminate the outermost level of tooth enamel. Though this may not be of immediate concern after one or two sessions, it can cause excessive tooth erosion after several whitening sessions. Wearing trays for shorter periods of time or alternating teeth whitening methods may help slow the erosion process. However, it is a necessary condition to be aware of when routine whitening procedures. In addition, users should also keep in mind that existing restorations will not whiten. Only natural teeth with experience ultimate enamel whitening.

 

Lack of ADA Seal of Acceptance

Despite the common use of teeth whitening products and procedures, not product utilizing lasers and several bleaching methods and toothpastes have not achieved the ADA Seal of Acceptance. This Seal indicates whitening products have meet the ADA’s specified guidelines for safety and effectiveness. Though products that do not contain the ADA Seal of Acceptance are not necessarily dangerous, it is always a good idea to thoroughly research teeth whitening products and their side effects before use.

 

Although you might be proud of your home remedy or easy trick for teeth whitening, it is not worth the risk to your teeth. Like with any beauty treatment (especially when it comes to your mouth) it is always safer to enlist a professional. By using a pro, you are less likely to have a bad reaction, experience irritation, or destroy your teeth. A professional will use the proper products and methods that will whiten your teeth the safe way. When it comes to whitening your teeth, be aware of things to avoid, and  don’t take any shortcuts—it won’t be worth it in the end!

Categories: ada seal, Risks, soft tissue, teeth, teeth whitening, tooth, tooth enamel, tooth sensitivity, whitening, whitening products

Teeth whitening Treatment Explained

Teeth whitening is a dental treatment that has been improving the colour of people’s teeth for many years. Not only the celebrities who we see on the red carpets and in star magazines, though, as regular people like you and I can now obtain whitening treatment that is affordable and easily accessible. There are three main types of whitening available and they include Enlighten, laser and home whitening.

What are the causes of discoloured teeth?

Teeth can become discoloured due to consuming too much coffee, coke or red wine, among other strongly coloured foods and drinks, while smoking on a regular basis can also degrade the colour of teeth. The thinning of tooth enamel and natural yellowing of dentin over time also lead to teeth appearing discoloured. Certain medications, such as those for high blood pressure, are also known to cause staining, while poor dental hygiene can leave your teeth to the mercy of the strain they are put under on a daily basis.

Can I prevent discolouration?

There are ways to keep your teeth looking white, but it is ultimately down to how you live your life. For example, you could limit the amount of coffee, tea or red wine you drink; stop smoking; improve how often or the manner in which you clean your teeth; regularly visit your dentist for check-ups; or consider visiting a dental hygienist for regular cleanings. However, if discolouration persists, teeth whitening may be the best solution.

What teeth whitening treatments are available?

There are various techniques in which a dentist can help to whiten and improve the appearance of your teeth, including:

• Laser teeth whitening: This is a treatment that typically takes no longer than ninety minutes and which can lighten your teeth by up to ten shades. The bleaching product is applied to your teeth and then activated through the use of a laser.


• Enlighten: This treatment allows you to first whiten your teeth in the comfort of your home, as per the instructions from your dentist, and then attend a single whitening appointment at your dental practice for the finishing touches to be applied. The home application will involve the wearing of bespoke trays and their daily wear with whitening gel. This is a fifteen day treatment plan that promises a B1 shade.


• Home whitening: This is a different system to Enlighten, but similar in how you will be given a teeth whitening kit and mouth guards to be worn at home along with whitening gel. You will need to make sure that you follow your dentist’s instructions to achieve the best results and maintain a safe procedure.

What can I eat after whitening treatment?

When the treatment is complete it is important that you do not immediately return to your old ways of drinking red wine and eating foods with artificial dyes. Think of your teeth as a white t-shirt for the first 48 hours and longer still if you want to see the results last as long as possible. During this time you should avoid consuming coffee, juice and sauces, whereas you will be fine to consume chicken, vegetables and milk. The best course of action is to be cautionary during the initial time after treatment.

If you would like to get teeth whitening to improve the colour of your teeth, visit a dentist in your local area for more advice.

This article is written by the team from Ollie & Darsh where you can learn more about whitening treatments.

Categories: teeth whitening, treatment, whitening