WhiterSmile.com.au
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WHAT MIGHT GO WRONG WITH TEETH WHITENING?
It is not sensible to embark on whitening your teeth without an understanding of the potential risks or harm from the process. Here at Whiter Smile, we want our customers to enjoy the benefits of whiter teeth without any harmful side effects.
We strongly advise against using an unlicensed practitioner to whiten your teeth. If you prefer to have your teeth whitened by someone else then the only sensible solution is to use your dental surgery for the procedure. It is safe to whiten your teeth at home if you follow the instructions carefully, but even then you must be aware of potential risks and side effects.
Potential risks of teeth whitening
Teeth whitening products use various concentrations of hydrogen peroxide and other oxidising and bleaching agents to remove stains from the tooth’s surface. The process is permanent and any effects are irreversible. If you repeatedly whiten your teeth it may cause long term damage to them. The concentrations of bleach/hydrogen peroxide are strictly limited by dental associations and no product containing more than 6% of these whitening agents should be found in any home whitening products. Similarly any products using more than 6% concentration should only ever be used by licensed practitioners.
Does having my teeth whitened hurt?
While having your teeth whitened you may feel a sharp pain inside the tooth that is being whitened. Often you can feel a bubbling sensation on the surface of the teeth as the agent reacts with the stains. Occasionally you may experience a dull ache in the teeth after whitening. If pain persists you should contact your dentist immediately.
What actual damage is possible from teeth whitening?
Some effects of teeth whitening are temporary and others can be permanent. The bleaching agent can react with the enamel of your teeth and this is the most significant potential risk as if the enamel is weakened this cannot be reversed.
Potential side effects are listed below
- Chemical burns to the mouth and gums – more likely if the treatment is carried out in an unlicensed location, such as a beauty salon or kiosk.
- Lessening of the strength of resin based fillings – potential for these to be loosened and to need replacing
- Unevenly whitened teeth if agent applied incorrectly
- No change in colour of crowns and veneers – these should be replaced or the result will be unevenly coloured teeth
- Damage to the enamel surface of the teeth
- Increased tooth sensitivity – this can be temporary or permanent
- Irritation to the throat and mouth if the bleaching agent is swallowed
- Blistering of gums and mouth
- It is crucial that you do not have your teeth whitened by an unlicensed practitioner and that you only buy teeth whitening products for home use from a professional company. Home products must be approved for use at home and contain less than 6% bleaching agent.
For more information visit us a http://www.whitersmile.com.au
