Pros and Cons of Teeth Whitening

Click Here to Book an Appointment with Dr. Jindia

If you are reading this article, chances are that you are somewhat aware of the kinds of teeth whitening products there are in the market. You must have used teeth whitening kits, or teeth whitening pens, or even tried teeth whitening at home - how have they worked for you so far?

We all know that white teeth have way more appeal than the ones that aren’t white. Everyone wants whiter, brighter teeth for themselves, but is it safe to do teeth whitening? What are the pros and cons of teeth whitening that some people might be ignorant of? Here are some facts about teeth whitening to let you decide if or not you want your teeth whitened.

What is Teeth Whitening?

Teeth whitening is a common procedure in cosmetic dentistry that uses whitening products (generally containing hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide as bleaching agents) to make your teeth appear whiter and brighter. Dr. Jindia can whiten your teeth in the office, or you can choose at-home whitening products such as gels and strips.

Pros of Teeth Whitening

The pros or benefits of whitening your teeth are purely cosmetic. According to the facts laid down by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry,  approximately 92 percent of adults believe attractive smiles make members of the opposite sex more appealing, and 74 percent of adults think unattractive smiles hinder employment success. Another key benefit of whitening your teeth.is the self-confidence you gain as you don’t feel self-conscious any more.

Potential Risks and Side Effects

Teeth whitening can cause several side effects. Tooth sensitivity and gum irritation can occur. However, Elite Care Dental notes that gum irritation is usually caused by ill-fitting whitening trays (rather than the bleaching agent itself), and sensitivity and tissue irritation often disappear within one to three days of completing the treatment.

It is to be kept in mind that some strong bleaching agents can cause soft tissue (gum) burns, a burning sensation in the throat, and an upset stomach. Worldwide, there is still a controversy over whether or not teeth bleaching affects the physical structure of teeth, including the enamel- that most dentists think it does.

How Safe is Teeth Whitening?

If you are whitening your teeth, you need to take a good look at the manufacturer’s instructions are to make sure they are followed properly. Peroxide-based teeth whitening agents are safe, and such whitening products include whitening rinses, toothpaste, strips, gels, tray-based whiteners, and in-office whitening treatments. However, it is strongly recommended that teeth whitening should be supervised by an oral health care provider to reduce possible risks and maximize whitening results. The American Dental Association (ADA) also recommends whitening your teeth only after consulting with a dentist to make sure it’s a good fit for you.

Is it Right For Me?

While whitening your teeth do have a lot of cosmetic and confidence-building benefits, it isn’t for everybody. Teeth whitening can often be expensive, and it doesn’t work on all types of tooth discoloration. The ADA notes that whitening agents aren’t effective on veneers, fillings, crowns, and caps and likely won’t work for discoloration that is brown, gray, or caused by injury or medication. That’s why it’s important to check with Dr. Jindia before spending money on teeth whitening products.

How Often Should I Whiten?

Whitening your teeth too often increases the risk of negative side effects, such as tooth sensitivity and damage to tooth enamel and gums. But there’s no official guideline for how often whitening can be done safely. That’s why it’s important to get Dr. Jindia’s recommendation and always follow product instructions. Some people notice that the whiteness fades after just one month, while others can go a year before needing another whitening treatment.

To Sum Up

Knowing the pros and cons of teeth whitening will help you determine if it’s a good fit for you. When used properly, teeth whitening products are considered to be safe, but they are not effective for all types of stains. Always check with Dr. Jindia before whitening.