If you are looking to alter your smile then you may be considering brightening it up with teeth whitening treatments. In this post, our Summerland 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 operation, it has no oral health benefits. However, many people believe that having white teeth makes them feel more confident in exposing their grin, and having a bright, white smile might inspire you to maintain a good at-home dental hygiene regimen.
Our teeth might get discoloured as we age for a variety of reasons, including our drinking or eating habits, smoking or taking certain drugs. Some people experience dental decay or injury as well.
Professional teeth whitening is an excellent way to swiftly and painlessly improve 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 Summerland 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?
Although the potential adverse effects of teeth whitening are small, the following are some of the most common:
Sensitive teeth
You may notice an increase in temperature sensitivity after completing the teeth-whitening treatment. The sensitivity will most likely last about a week or two. In the interim, consult your dentist about products that may be of use. To treat sensitivity, they propose products containing potassium nitrate and sodium fluoride.
Irritated Gums
If the whitening solution comes into contact with your gums, you may experience mild irritation. Fortunately, this adverse effect is expected to fade rapidly following therapy.
Things to Remember With Professional Teeth Whitening
One of the most important things to remember is that teeth whitening is not permanent, and you will need to continue with touch-ups to prevent new stains from emerging. Also, keep in mind that tooth whitening will not work on restorations like crowns, bridges, implants, or dentures.
Consult your dentist to see if tooth whitening is good for you. If you have ongoing dental work or current cavities, your dentist may advise you against this surgery.
Your dentist-approved teeth-whitening treatments are deemed 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 directions and to inform your dentist if you notice any side effects.