While it can be an appealing idea to whiten your teeth to improve your self-confidence, there are some risks that you should be aware of. For one, teeth whitening can take several office visits, requiring more time off from work. For another, whitening agents may not be safe for pregnant women and nursing mothers. In either case, it’s important to consult a dentist for further information. Despite these risks, whitening your teeth is considered a safe procedure by most dentists.
One of the most common side effects of tooth whitening is increased tooth sensitivity. The amount of peroxide and the duration of the process will determine the severity of the side effects. Other side effects may include painful gums or sore teeth after whitening. Those with sensitive teeth may benefit from other methods of lightening their teeth. A dentist can help alleviate any discomfort. However, people who are sensitive to bleaching agents should only undergo the procedure if they have a severe case of tooth sensitivity.
The British Dental Association states that teeth whitening is safe for people who visit a registered dental practitioner. Anyone else may perform the procedure, but they won’t have the proper training and could cause damage. Bleaching products can also leak from mouthguards and result in chemical burns. In addition, beauticians are not trained to take a patient’s medical history and cannot recommend a safe treatment for a particular situation.
Tooth whitening may be beneficial if you have a serious stain problem or are undergoing cosmetic surgery. However, it is important to remember that a teeth whitening procedure will not be permanent. You may experience a temporary whitening effect that fades after a month or two. A few months of regular use may be needed to achieve a permanent change. The effects of teeth whitening will depend on the individual and their lifestyle.
Some people are sensitive to certain foods and beverages. Tobacco can cause teeth to become yellow, so it’s important to cut down on tobacco use. Additionally, cleaning your teeth by a professional is important to remove plaque and stains that build up on the teeth. In addition to regular dental checkups, it’s also important to keep in mind that teeth whitening treatments may require touch-up treatments. But they may be worth it if you want a brighter smile without risking your health.
Aside from the health risks of whitening, a sensitivity problem might arise from the whitening process. Fortunately, this issue is usually temporary. If your teeth and gums are in good shape, sensitivity will be less of a problem. However, gum irritation is another risk associated with teeth whitening procedures, particularly with the use of gel-filled trays. The gel in the trays may also cause irritation to your gums if they’re not fitted correctly.
Besides sensitivity, some studies have also found that hydrogen peroxide-based whitening agents can damage the proteins of the dentin layer. The dentin layer is the hard tissue underneath the tooth’s surface, so hydrogen peroxide can have an impact on the texture of your teeth. Researchers have yet to find conclusive evidence to support these claims. However, the risks involved are high, and it’s still important to consult a dentist before you begin any treatment.
