Whether you have always wanted to have your teeth whitened or not, you may have wondered whether teeth whitening is safe or whether it is bad for you.
In this blog, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about teeth whitening so that you can make an informed decision and enjoy a whiter, brighter smile!
Is teeth whitening bad?
The short answer is no. Teeth whitening is safe if carried out by a professional dental practitioner.
Here at Keys Dental, we primarily use the Zoom teeth whitening method. We would never provide this cosmetic dentistry to our patients if we weren’t sure that it was clinically proven to be not just effective but safe.
How does teeth whitening work?
Most dentist-applied teeth whitening, like our Zoom method, uses either carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide as the whitening agent.
Carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide whiten teeth through a process called oxidation. It essentially breaks down stains on the enamel of your teeth.
When applied, these peroxide compounds release oxygen molecules that penetrate the enamel and dentin, reacting with the coloured molecules (chromogens) within the tooth. This reaction alters the chromogens making them less visible and leaving the teeth visually whitened.
When applied by a trained and accredited dental professional, use of these whitening agents is both safe and effective. For more information about this, read this article or this study.
The team here at Keys Dental are fully accredited, registered and trained in teeth whitening. So you can enjoy peace of mind that you are in safe hands.
In-clinic vs At-home Teeth Whitening
Clinically proven home trays, whitening toothpaste and teeth whitening strips are not bad for you but seeing results can take longer. Some can even take as long as a month before a noticeable difference occurs. Without careful and meticulous application, there is also the possibility of inconsistent or superficial results.
That’s why we recommend in-clinic whitening.
Apart from being quick, easy and highly effective, it means that we can take care of you the entire time.
Side Effects of Teeth Whitening
While teeth whitening is safe, there are some potential and temporary side effects.
The most common of these are teeth sensitivity and gum irritation. Following the treatment, especially initial treatments, your teeth may seem more sensitive to sensations. Similarly, your gums might feel a bit irritated.
It is important to note that this is completely normal and not cause for concern. The sensation and sensitivity will resolve itself over time.
Unfortunately, home-whitening can incur other side effects. Unproven remedies like activated charcoal can actually damage your teeth or leave uneven colouration. Overusing whitening products or using the wrong products can also damage your tooth enamel.
Once again, when you come into Keys Dental, you don’t have to worry about this.
And if you do experience teeth sensitivity or gum irritation, there are a few tips you can follow to minimise discomfort.
Desensitising Toothpaste
Before and after whitening, use toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth to help reduce discomfort. Our team can recommend some clinically proven toothpastes for this very purpose.
Apply Fluoride Gel
Using dentist-approved fluoride gel or rinse to help remineralise the teeth and reduce sensitivity.
Avoid Hot and Cold Foods
For a few days after whitening, you should avoid consuming very hot or cold foods and beverages, which can trigger sensitivity.
Speak to Our Team
We’re here to help! If you experience sensitivity or discomfort, let us know so that we can recommend some additional solutions. We may also use a lower whitening agent next time you come in.
Who Should Avoid Teeth Whitening?
While teeth whitening is not bad or damaging to your teeth, it is best to avoid it if you fall into one of the following categories:
- Pregnant women
- Breastfeeding women
- People with pre-existing sensitive teeth
- People with gum disease
- People with cracks, holes or untreated dental problems
It is important to note that teeth whitening is intended for natural teeth. If you have crowns, veneers or other extensive dental work, make sure to speak to us about the options available to you.
Let’s Get You Smiling with Safe, Effective Teeth Whitening
Keys Dental’s teeth whitening is completely safe and highly effective.
If you’ve always wanted to whiten, brighten and lighten your smile but have been worried whether whitening teeth is bad for you, make sure to give our clinic a call.
We’ll ensure you have all the information you need to make the confident choice for a more confident smile! Contact Keys Dental today.
