Is Teeth Whitening Safe?

Teeth whitening has become one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry operations in recent years, and it’s easy to see why. Teeth whitening is a quick and painless technique to improve your smile in just a few hours. 

There are innumerable reasons why teeth might get stained or discoloured. But you need not worry about it at all, as you can always get them whitened. Teeth whitening is a safe and effective process that can offer pleasing effects when done appropriately. 

With so many whitening products and services on the market, it’s important to be cautious when selecting the treatment that best meets your needs. But before you take this step, it is always important to first consult your dentist as there might be some side effects if you try to whiten teeth on your own. Also, several types of teeth whitening treatments are banned in Australia. 

 

How Safe Is Teeth Whitening?

 

When performed by a trained and experienced dental practitioner, teeth whitening is a safe process. This is because your dentist is trained to examine your teeth and gums and provide you with professional advice that is in your best interest.

He or she is also qualified to provide a bleaching agent concentration that will assist you in achieving your whitening goals in the timeframe you specify. In reality, your dentist can use bleach with a concentration of up to 35% hydrogen peroxide, which can penetrate the tooth enamel and lift severe stains.

Because the product remineralises as it whitens, using reputable whitening products like the Philips Zoom whitening gel adds another layer of safety. This keeps the enamel on your teeth from deteriorating.

 

Teeth whitening options

 

For whitening teeth, there are innumerable options available in a wide range of products and methods. There are three general categories of teeth whitening methods, those that are:

  • Administered by your dentist
  • Dispensed by your dentist to use at home
  • Obtained over the counter or made at home without the oversight of your dentist

Again based on various other factors, you can choose the appropriate method for whitening of teeth:

  • The type of discolouration you have
  • The cost involved in the treatment
  • The treatment method
  • Your age (this pertains to children)
  • Your dental history, including fillings and crowns

 

Consulting the Dentist:

 

Before you try on a teeth whitening method, consult with your dentist and go as per your dentist’s recommended method. This method would be suggested to you as per your teeth’s requirements. Also, remember that the time it takes to whiten your teeth safely depends on the type of discolouration you have and the method you use to whiten your teeth.

 

Types of Teeth Whitening Methods:

 

Professional Teeth Whitening

 

Professional teeth whitening consists of bleaching your teeth with carbamide peroxide, which will break the hydrogen peroxide and urea. This will help in targeting the tooth’s colour in a chemical reaction. This method is considered to be a safe way to whiten teeth.

 

In-office Treatment

 

This in-office treatment of whitening can be really beneficial as it works super fast with a long-lasting effect on the teeth. The hydrogen peroxide concentration that is applied in the products is more than in the products used at home. If you are facing issues with receding gums or abfraction lesions, then this in-office treatment is the best. When in the office, the dentist would also use the application of light to speed up the process.

 

In-Home Treatment Prescribed by the Dentist

 

The dentists can make custom-fit trays to fit into your mouth, which would whiten your teeth. You will add a gel to it and wear the tray 30 minutes to 1 hour a day for a few weeks to whiten your teeth.

 

Are there any teeth whitening side effects?  

 

Some people suffer a small and transitory side effect of increased tooth sensitivity right after treatment. This means that cold foods may feel even colder the day after your tooth whitening appointment with the dentist.

This symptom goes away within one to three days following therapy and isn’t something to be concerned about.

Some people may be more prone to sensitivity than others. While one individual may be able to enjoy a scoop of ice cream with just minor pain, another may find it difficult to consume anything at all, including ice cream. 

Your dental professional will be able to advise you on any side effects. A fluoride gel may be used to help you in reducing any transient sensitivity. If you’re concerned about sensitivity, speak with your dentist; they’ll be able to assist you. 

All in all, whitening of the teeth is absolutely safe if performed correctly. You can check for teeth whitening near me to get the best teeth whitening services near you.

At Rouse Hill Smiles Dental Care, we provide the best-in-class and affordable general and teeth whitening dental care services. So, if you are looking for a dentist consultation in Rouse Hill, visit us and meet our qualified team for all your dental needs.