The potential side effects of teeth whitening include teeth sensitivity, gum irritation, and ineffective results. However, most patients do not experience any notable side effects from professional teeth whitening, as the dentist can monitor the process and perform treatment in a way that minimizes risk.
Dentists take every precaution possible to minimize the risk of teeth sensitivity and gum irritation during treatment. However, side effects can occur in some instances, especially for those that use an over-the-counter whitening kit that is not prescribed by a dentist.
Teeth sensitivity is one of the most commonly reported side effects of teeth whitening. This can occur if the patient has weakened enamel or if the whitening is not properly administered. In-office whitening is the best way to minimize the risk of sensitivity during and after treatment as the dental professional can apply the bleaching agent in the safest way possible. Dentists often recommend certain treatments before whitening, if necessary, to reduce the risk of sensitivity. For example, dentists may recommend a patient with dental cavities receive dental fillings before the whitening procedure.
In-office whitening involves isolating the teeth from the gums using a dental dam. This significantly reduces the risk of gum irritation. However, gum irritation can occur if the gums are not properly isolated or if the take-home or store-bought kit is not properly applied. Most patients do not experience any issues with gum irritation, particularly when it is performed in the office and administered by a dental professional.
It is important to have realistic expectations as to what to expect from treatment. Teeth whitening can remove most minor stains, but it is not effective in treating more severe stains, known as “intrinsic stains.” The dentist can show you on a shade guide the type of results you can expect and go over your alternative options if the ideal results cannot be achieved through teeth whitening.
As mentioned, most patients do not experience any side effects from teeth whitening treatments, particularly when it is performed in-office. Before treatment begins, talk to the dentist about ways to reduce the risk of side effects during or after treatment.
Most people who experience complications from teeth whitening do so by trying store-bought whitening kits. While for some patients they may be useful, they are not nearly as safe or as effective as professional treatment. Instead, it is best to visit a professional for teeth whitening, and the results can last much longer with less of a risk of side effects.
Reach out to our team today to learn more about the potential side effects of teeth whitening and to arrange a visit for treatment. Here at our practice, it is our mission to ensure our patients achieve a smile that brings them joy and that they enjoy showing off, and many of our patients achieve this through professional teeth whitening.
Are you considering teeth whitening in the Mountain View area? Get more information at https://smilesdental.com.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Teeth Whitening in Mountain View, CA.
Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental procedure. The appearance of a bright smile is a sign of good dental health. In-office whitening treatments are quick and effective. Understanding the process better can help you prepare for your appointment. If you want to know what to ask your dentist about your teeth whitening procedure, here…
In-office teeth bleaching, also commonly known as chairside bleaching, is a popular cosmetic dental procedure. It often takes place under carefully monitored conditions. This allows for the controlled use of a relatively high concentration of bleaching gel. It often yields results that are visible immediately.When it comes to teeth-whitening procedures, many people opt for in-office…
As the demand for brighter, aesthetically pleasing teeth increases, many dentists are providing professional teeth bleaching to meet their patients' needs. However, many people, especially parents, are often concerned about the minimum age to have teeth whitening treatments done. This article addresses this concern and provides insight into the whitening process.Many dentists recommend children should…
Most of the time when people are looking for ways to whiten their teeth, searches will frequently bring up results about the benefits of baking soda. Both for teeth whitening and keeping bacteria at bay, baking soda is beneficial for the teeth and the overall oral health. It is very beneficial for removing surface stains…
Having a smile makeover is something that many people want from the dentist. Because a smile is often the first thing someone will notice about you, it should be high on your priority list to fix dental blemishes. There are multiple problems that affect a smile. Fortunately, your dentist can treat these concerns and restore…
One of the most common orthodontic treatments that a general dentist offers is Invisalign®. This popular way to straighten crooked or crowded teeth offers individuals flexibility and ease while undergoing a discreet method of treatment. With Invisalign®, there are a lot of things to know, as it is a newer orthodontic treatment with a totally different technology…