Beauty trends may come and go, but there is always a reason to focus on the teeth. Even if you brush and floss your teeth daily, you may still feel unsatisfied with your teeth’s color. Because each person’s teeth are different, teeth whitening may not be the best option for you – especially if you have sensitive teeth.
The teeth whitening process can cause teeth to feel sensitive for a few days, but no lasting sensitivity or pain. The whitening process is not recommended for those already experiencing sensitivity. In fact, depending on the level of sensitivity you experience daily, you may be disqualified from receiving teeth whitening treatments so as not to worsen your teeth.
Why Teeth Whitening Is Not Safe for Sensitive Teeth
People seeking the perfect, white smile may be happy to learn that teeth whitening is one of the safest dental procedures. However, if you have sensitive teeth, think twice and discuss your options with a dentist before receiving any teeth whitening treatments.
Teeth whitening is unsafe for patients suffering from sensitive teeth. The whitening process causes tooth sensitivity for a few days before it wears off. Those who already have tooth sensitivity may experience painful sensations that require over-the-counter pain relievers.
The Two Categories of Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening falls into two distinct categories. First, there are in-office, professional whitening treatments provided by your dentist. Dentists use powerful whitening agents over multiple visits to ensure your teeth are whitened. This type of whitening is highly potent and can be harmful to those with sensitive teeth.
Secondly, teeth whitening can come in the form of over-the-counter treatments. These treatments are less potent than in-office whitening treatments. However, over-the-counter treatments require multiple applications to achieve results similar to those of in-office whitening.
For those with sensitive teeth, both options can be harmful, worsening sensitivity in the teeth or other areas of the mouth, such as the gums.
Types of Teeth Whitening
According to the National Library of Medicine, some product types are marketed to address specific types of tooth stains. These categories include bleaches that react with chromogens to lighten color, products that enhance both bleaching and cleansing, and cleansers, such as smokers’ toothpastes, that contain higher levels of detergents and abrasives to help remove chromogens from the tooth surface.
Additionally, there are specific whitening systems such as:
- Whitening toothpastes containing low concentrations of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide
- Tray-based tooth whitening, in which a fitted tray containing a bleaching gel is worn for a designated period of time
- Whitening strips that fit onto the buccal surfaces of the teeth
- Whitening gels provide peroxide-based options that require you to use a small brush directly on the teeth
- Whitening rinses contain oxygen sources, such as hydrogen peroxide, to react with chromogens
Tooth whitening can also be done in-office, where professionals may use higher concentrations of peroxide than over-the-counter options.
Risks Associated With Teeth Whitening
Although tooth whitening is safe and effective, there are still risks associated with this type of treatment. Some of the risks of tooth whitening include:
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- Tooth surface roughening and softening
- Gingival irritation
- Degradation of dental restorations
- Increased potential for demineralization
- Unacceptable color change of dental restorations
Despite the risks, teeth whitening procedures are relatively safe, and as long as you follow your dentist’s instructions for any upcoming appointments, you will continue receiving teeth whitening treatments.
Where to Receive Teeth Whitening Treatments
At My Dentist Anaheim, our dental team understands that each person has a unique smile. We offer a variety of services and treatments, including teeth whitening. Our dentist, Dr. Patel, stays up to date with the latest and greatest technology, ensuring patient satisfaction.
Contact us today to learn how we can whiten your teeth and help give you the smile you want!