The answer is yes; if done incorrectly, teeth whitening can damage your teeth. Let’s look at three ways that teeth whitening can potentially damage your teeth.
The most common type of whitening treatment is bleaching, which uses hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide as its active ingredient. Too much bleach can damage the enamel on your teeth, which is the outermost layer that protects them from bacteria and other elements.
When this layer gets damaged, it exposes the dentin underneath, which is much more sensitive than enamel. This means that you may be more prone to tooth sensitivity when exposed to hot or cold temperatures after a bleaching session.
Gingival irritation is another possible side effect of using whitening products, especially if they are used too often or in too high concentrations. It typically manifests as redness, swelling, and tenderness around the gums.
If left unchecked, this condition can worsen over time and lead to more serious problems like gum disease or even tooth loss.
Another way that teeth whitening can damage your teeth is if the active ingredients in the product can cause inflammation around your teeth. This can lead to soreness and discomfort when eating or drinking hot or cold items and even pain when brushing and flossing.
In some cases, this inflammation can also make your gums recede—which will expose even more of the sensitive dentin layer on your tooth enamel.
1. Only Use ADA-Approved Products: When looking for a whitening product, look for the ADA seal of approval on the box or container. If a product has the ADA seal of approval, it means that its ingredient levels are safe and won’t damage your teeth or gums.
2. Follow Instructions: Once you find an ADA-approved product, make sure that you follow all of the instructions carefully. Don’t use more than the recommended amount of product or leave it on your teeth longer than directed; this can cause irritation and sensitivity in your teeth and gums.
Additionally, make sure that you rinse your mouth thoroughly after each application to avoid any residue left behind from the product.
3. Consult With Your Dentist: Before attempting any whitening product, speak with your Flagstaff cosmetic dentist about which products are safest for your individual needs and preferences. They can assess your current oral health status and let you know if a particular product is safe for you. This way, you can be sure that you’re taking all necessary precautions before starting any kind of new regimen.
4. Listen To Your Teeth: Finally, pay attention to what your teeth are telling you while using any type of whitening product! Overuse can cause irritation in both teeth and gums so if any discomfort arises during usage, stop right away and talk with your dentist about alternative treatments if necessary.
By following these safety precautions you will be able to enjoy a whiter brighter smile without having to worry about damaging your pearly whites!
If you're in Flagstaff, AZ and considering teeth whitening, contact Cedar Avenue Family Dentistry – we offer top-notch teeth whitening services at an affordable price! Contact us today to learn more!
