Many people undergo teeth whitening procedures to make their smile look healthier and to increase their self-esteem. Although this procedure is largely painless unless you have very sensitive teeth, it is common to question the safety of products used to whiten your teeth.
The safety of whitening procedures depends on many factors. Here are some common questions and concerns related to teeth whitening to help you determine whether or not you are comfortable with this optional procedure.
Products used for whitening may include toothpaste, gels, strips, or trays that are used to whiten teeth at home or professional whitening treatments that you undergo at a dental office.
Many of the ingredients that you see in products such as whitening toothpaste only polish the teeth to remove stains on the surface. They may include ingredients such as silica or pyrophosphate. These ingredients are not meant to change the color of the teeth but can help make your teeth appear whiter over time.
Some whitening toothpaste use hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which are bleaching agents that do change the color of the enamel of the teeth. These ingredients work more quickly than surface stain removers. These are the same ingredients that are used in at-home whitening kits and at the dental office for professional whitening treatments.
A common side effect of whitening treatments is tooth sensitivity. This is at least partially due to the exposure of tooth pulp to the ingredient peroxide, and all methods of teeth whitening have the potential to cause sensitivity. While uncomfortable, this side effect is generally mild and only lasts for a short period of time. Using lower concentrations of whitening ingredients can help mitigate feelings of sensitivity in teeth and gums.
Another side effect of whitening treatments is gingival irritation or redness and swelling of your gums near the base of your teeth. This side effect can be lessened with the proper application of gels and other whitening products, as would be done at a dental office. Like tooth sensitivity, many people with this side effect report that it was mild and short-lasting.
Tooth enamel is the hardest tissue in your body. However, it also contains very small hollow rods or tubes that extend to the dentin layer beneath the enamel. These microscopic openings allow stain-causing substances to penetrate the enamel and be absorbed by the dentin. Teeth whitening products penetrate the enamel in the same way, allowing them to act on the dentin layer. The American Dental Association considers these products to be safe and non-damaging to the enamel of the teeth.
Tooth enamel is translucent; however, when it is lost, teeth may appear more yellow, because the dentin layer underneath becomes more visible. Some products promise to whiten teeth by restoring lost enamel. However, the enamel is not living tissue, and the lost enamel will not grow back. Fluoride toothpaste can push phosphates and calcium into the teeth to harden enamel which may help prevent additional enamel loss. Additionally, your dentist can apply a plastic sealant that provides additional enamel protection. Lifestyle changes, such as reducing your consumption of sugar and carbonated sodas, may also help preserve your existing enamel.
Research suggests that whitening products are safe. However, the whitening effects do not last indefinitely. Most home whitening treatments last for a few months. Professional whitening treatments may last two to three years. Patients who wish to achieve long-term results must address the underlying cause of the discoloration or repeat their treatments.
While at-home whitening kits may be more convenient and less expensive than professional whitening treatments, professional treatments generally contain stronger ingredients, work more quickly, and last for a longer time than do at-home treatments. When you undergo treatment at a dental office, they can help alleviate any side effects that you may have, including tooth sensitivity or gingival irritation. Partly for those reasons, undergoing teeth whitening at a dental office is considered to be safer.
If directions are followed and the ingredients are applied properly, teeth whitening treatments are considered to be safe and effective. Professional treatments are the safer option compared to at-home treatments. Watch for side effects and contact your dentist if you have any concerns, either after an at-home treatment or after a professional treatment.
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