Is It Safe To Go With Teeth Whitening?

 Nobody wants to be known for pearly yellows.

Our smile begins to fade and appear dingy as we age. Certain foods and beverages, as well as smoking, can cause discoloration of our once-gleaming smile.

At-home teeth whitening products such as strips and gels are now available. These options have grown in popularity, but are they truly a risk-free way to whiten your teeth? Should you go with in-office professional whitening treatments instead?

Professional dentists explain how teeth whitening works and whether it is worth the expense.

WHAT IS THE PROCESS OF TEETH WHITENING?

Products such as sticky strips and gel-filled trays are available for use at home. They're easily accessible over the counter and can do an excellent job of lightening teeth and removing stains.

Simply apply strips or a tray to your teeth and leave them on for the recommended time (these can vary per product, so make sure you follow the instructions).

Most at-home products use hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, a chemical that contains hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide, a natural bleaching agent, breaks down molecules that cause discoloration caused by coffee, tea, red wine, and smoking.

Carbamide peroxide works in the same way, but it releases about half of its whitening ability in the first few hours and can be active for hours afterwards. Overall, hydrogen peroxide and carbamide have the same effects.

To see results, you may need to use at-home products every day for a week.

Professional teeth whitening is another option. Choose a dental clinic that has professional teeth whitening machines. 

In-office treatments may provide you with longer-lasting results in a shorter period of time. To achieve the bright smile you desire, you may only require one treatment or a few visits. However, such treatments may be more expensive than at-home alternatives.

IS TEETH WHITENING VALUED?

Teeth whitening can be a safe option if you want a bright white smile. However, it is critical to consult with a dentist and conduct research first.

According to research, hydrogen peroxide products may damage proteins in the dentin layer of your teeth. Dentin is the hard tissue that lies beneath the surface enamel of your teeth.

Another study suggests that whitening products may also roughen or soften the surface of your teeth.

It is possible that the changes are only temporary and will disappear once the person stops using teeth bleaching products. Even if the changes stick, it's unclear whether they're bad news for your choppers.

It's also critical to consider the type of product you're using and how it fits in your mouth. To avoid sensitivity and irritation, keep hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide on your teeth and away from your gums.

HOW CAN YOU WHITEN YOUR TEETH SAFELY?

Now for some comfort. Bleaching products have been around for decades, and millions of people, including many dentists, use them.

Look for the ADA approval seal. It's found in whitening toothpastes and teeth bleaching products that have been proven safe and effective in independent studies.

Follow the directions. Some products are intended to be used once daily, while others can be used twice daily. Some you use for a week, others for two... you get the picture. Follow the product's instructions to protect your teeth.

Consult your dentist. Select a dentist who has received professional teeth whitening training. Consult your dentist to see if these products are appropriate for you. Bleaching products are most effective on teeth that have yellowed with age or teeth that have been stained by food and drink (looking at you, coffee and red wine). However, brown or grey discoloration may indicate underlying issues that a bleaching kit will not address. It's also critical to address issues like gum disease and cavities before beginning a bleaching treatment. Your dentist can also recommend the best product for you and ensure that you are using it correctly.

Pay attention to your teeth. When using whitening products, some people experience temporary sensitivity in their gums or teeth. That is not a sign of long-term damage, but it is unpleasant. If this happens to you, consider stopping bleaching or switching to a milder product. Again, consult your dentist for the best advice.