Does Teeth Whitening Damage Your Teeth?

Teeth whitening is one of the most popular types of cosmetic dental procedures. If you’re dealing with staining and discoloration and want a pearly white smile, teeth whitening makes it possible.

But is the process worth it? Are teeth-whitening treatments actually safe?

Let’s break it down:

What Is Teeth Whitening?

Teeth whitening is a dental treatment that changes the color of your teeth. It usually uses products containing peroxide or another bleaching agent.

When you apply the material to your teeth, it kickstarts a chemical reaction that breaks down the molecules making up the stains on your teeth and lifts a few shades.

The stronger the whitening product and the more sessions you have, the whiter your smile can become.

Does It Damage Your Teeth?

Teeth whitening isn’t without risks, as are all other dental procedures. The biggest concern patients have has to do with sensitivity.

Teeth whitening can make your teeth slightly more sensitive, but the effects are temporary. It should go away after 2–3 days. However, this greatly depends on a few factors:

• Your oral health: Teeth whitening isn’t for everyone. If you have oral health issues like gum disease or cavities, exposing them to whitening agents could make these conditions worse.

• The type of whitening product you use: Whitening gels and products have different strengths. If you use one that’s too strong for a long time, it could slightly damage the enamel and irritate your gums.

• How you use the product: Most of these products come with specific instructions. But some people may choose to overlook them and expose their teeth to the bleaching agents longer than recommended to get better results.

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Teeth whitening is generally considered safe, but there is a risk of misusing these products, especially when it comes to over-the-counter solutions.

Why Is Enamel Important?

The enamel is the hard outer layer of the tooth. It makes the tooth strong, helps you chew your food properly, and protects the sensitive tissues inside from infection, cavities, and other bad news.

When you damage the enamel, you increase the risk of developing cavities and similar dental troubles.

Types of Teeth Whitening

Apart from OTC kits, professional teeth whitening treatments come in two forms:

• In-office treatments: These are sessions done by a dentist. They are perfectly safe, and the results are more controlled.

• At-home kits: A dentist can provide a whitening tray after a thorough consultation. You can whiten your teeth conveniently at home while still having your progress supervised.

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How to Whiten Your Teeth Safely at Home

You don’t have to worry about damaging your teeth with the professional at-home whitening kits provided by Dr. Daniel Krauss.

He will establish a clear treatment plan and give you plenty of instructions on how to brighten your smile safely, from the comfort of your own home.

Ready to get started? Then schedule a consultation at South Shore Dentistry now!