If you are looking to alter your smile then you may be considering brightening it up with teeth whitening treatments. In this post, our Surrey dentists list the potential side effects of professional teeth whitening and other things to keep in mind.
What is the purpose of teeth whitening?
Because teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure, it has no oral health benefits. However, many people find that having white teeth makes them feel more confident in revealing their smile, and having a bright, white smile can encourage you to maintain a good at-home oral hygiene routine.
As we age, our teeth can become discoloured for numerous reasons, whether as a result of our drinking or eating habits, smoking cigarettes or taking certain medications. Some patients also have tooth decay or damage.
Professional teeth whitening is a great way to quickly and non-invasively alter the appearance of your teeth.
What are the different teeth whitening options?
The dentists at our clinic are often asked if there is more than one option for teeth whitening. Patients at our dental clinic in Surrey have two choices for teeth whitening:
- Professional at-home bleaching kits offered by your dentist
- Teeth whitening products are available over the counter, without supervision from your dentist
Are there any potential effects of teeth whitening?
Potential side effects with teeth whitening are minimal but some of the most common side effects include:
Sensitive teeth
You may notice an increase in temperature sensitivity after completing the teeth whitening treatment. The sensitivity will most likely last only a week or two. In the meantime, consult your dentist about products that may be of assistance. To treat sensitivity, they recommend products containing potassium nitrate and sodium fluoride.
Irritated Gums
If the whitening solution comes into contact with your gums, you may experience temporary irritation. Fortunately, this side effect is likely to fade quickly after treatment.
Things to Remember With Professional Teeth Whitening
One of the main things to keep in mind is that teeth whitening is not permanent and you will need to continue with touch-ups in order to keep new stains from forming. Also remember that teeth whitening will not work on restorations such as crowns, bridges, implants and dentures.
Ask your dentist whether teeth whitening is right for you. If you have certain dental work in progress or active cavities are an issue, your dentist may recommend against this procedure.
Your dentist-approved teeth whitening methods are considered safe. Always consult with your dentist before beginning any treatment and choose the one that best suits your needs. Remember to always follow the product's instructions and to contact your dentist if you experience any side effects.
