Is Teeth Whitening Safe?

There are several doubts about the safety and effectiveness of teeth whitening. However, different studies have proved that the process is safe and effective.

The enamel of the teeth is not affected if the whitening agent contains only ten percent carbamide peroxide.

Though a higher percentage of carbamide and hydrogen peroxide may prove harmful for the teeth enamel, but the fluoride content of the formula removes the side effects to a considerable extent.

Dentists also prescribe fluoride gels to those using a higher concentration of these whitening materials which help as a protective cover.

In case of acute sensitivity or gum irritation, one may discontinue the usage of the teeth whitening agents on a regular basis and use it on alternate days.

The agent may also be applied for lesser time. The in-office, at-home or over-the-counter teeth whitening agents may result in tooth sensitivity and irritation of the gums.

Whereas prescription fluoride is a good remedy for sensitivity, over-the-counter products like Orajel treat gum irritation well.

Some dentists complain of the loss of patients as well as revenues as they hold the large companies with a vast array of over-the-counter teeth whitening products responsible as being the root cause for this loss.

On the contrary, these products help create awareness and enthusiasm among the masses about tooth whitening and cosmetic dentistry and in turn this helps the dentists.

In fact one of the ads suggests consulting with the dentist and taking their opinion about the cosmetic dental options and it gives a brief description about these teeth whitening procedures.

There are a few risks involved in the process of teeth whitening. The treatment may make your teeth sensitive for a brief period of time.

This is a feature seen in the early stages of the teeth whitening process. Again it may gently irritate the soft tissues of the mouth like the gums.

Mostly, a mouthpiece tray which does not fit properly is responsible for the irritation of the soft tissues. But both these conditions and discomfort do not persist for long and last only for a temporary period of one to three days of the completion of the treatment.

In case of acute sensitivity one can follow a few simple measures to reduce or get rid of the teeth whitening risks.

Firstly, the mouth tray can be used for a shorter period of time for example, instead of two 60 minute sessions it can be worn for two 30 minutes sessions.

Again, the process can be stopped for a few days to allow the teeth to get adjusted to the teeth whitening treatment.

Moreover, the dentist or the pharmacist can be asked to prescribe a product containing high fluoride to restore the mineral content of the teeth.

This product should be applied to the tray and to be worn for four minutes before starting the whitening process.

Lastly, brushing the teeth with toothpaste meant for sensitive teeth containing potassium nitrate helps soothe the nerve ends of the teeth. Such steps might alleviate the teeth whitening risks and irritations to some degree.