Disadvantages of Tooth Whitening

When a person smiles, teeth are the first things that are noticed. Everyone wishes to have perfect white teeth. A beautiful smile gives a hike to your confidence. Cosmetic dentistry is quite advanced and teeth whitening is very much in demand. It can make brown, stained teeth, whiter and beautiful. It is carried out in many ways. Do-it-yourself kits or over-the-counter equipment to do it at home are easily available. Preferably, you should go to a dentist for whitening your teeth. That is a safe and advisable option. Along with the advantages of having white teeth, there are a few dangers too in teeth whitening.

Side Effects of Tooth Whitening

• The most prominent side effect is that your teeth become sensitive to temperatures. You will feel it when you have hot or cold drinks.
• Sometimes, the whitening becomes uneven. This can occur naturally as the effect of bleach is not even for every tooth. This may even result into patchy appearance on your teeth. The irregular whitening looks as if you have undergone a failed procedure.
• Frequent use of bleach or other chemicals may result in erosion of teeth enamel. Teeth enamel helps in preventing decay of your teeth. Hence, there can be increased chances of tooth decay.
• You may also suffer from sore gums immediately after you have completed the procedure. Irritation of gums may also be observed.
• The chemicals used for whitening teeth may also cause allergic reactions.
• There are also chances of swallowing the chemicals mistakenly. If these chemicals are consumed, you may feel nauseous and even vomit.
• It is not advisable for young people (under 16 years of age) to undergo teeth whitening. Similarly, pregnant as well lactating women must stay away from it.

So, what precautions do you need to take in order to prevent these dangers? The first thing that is recommended is that you must have the procedure done with the help of a dentist. He will use the right technique, chemicals and products. Sometimes, teeth are extremely stained or discolored. In that case, it does not produce any noticeable effect. A dentist will help you decide whether you should go for teeth whitening or not. There are products available for use after completing a teeth whitening procedure.

Hydrogen peroxide is the main constituent of teeth whitening products. More the content of hydrogen peroxide, whiter your teeth will get. But, excess of hydrogen peroxide is not good for teeth. Some people tend to continue whitening teeth for a long time, which is not recommended. Excessive use of bleach can result into severe irritation of gums or other dental problems. Teeth whitening trays that are commonly used should not be used for a long period. There must be a suitable gap between two consecutive procedures. When trying it at home, you must read the instructions carefully before use. Avoid making excessive use of these products as they may result into damaged teeth. If you notice any side effects, you must immediately see you dentist.

Most of the side effects of whitening teeth are temporary. But, you need to be very careful before using any products. You must take professional advice before going for any teeth whitening methods. If done properly, you will definitely succeed in having that million dollar smile!