Can Teeth Whitening Damage Teeth?

Tooth whitening is an effective way to brighten and improve the appearance of your smile. Many people want to whiten their teeth in order to have a whiter, brighter smile. Before obtaining teeth whitening dental services, it is important to understand how the procedure may affect your teeth.

If your dentist or orthodontist advises you to use a whitening product on your teeth, they are aware of the risks and will take precautions to reduce them. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), there is no evidence that teeth whitening is harmful in the long run. If you want a Hollywood smile, here’s what you need to know about Tarpon Springs cosmetic treatments.

What is the teeth whitening process?

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Teeth whitening is an acid-based treatment that lightens the surface of your teeth with a special gel or gel strip. Peroxide and other chemicals in the gel break down stains and discolorations on your teeth. It entails placing an abrasive material next to your teeth and carefully removing it with a period file. This action removes stains from the surface of your teeth, making them whiter, brighter, and less yellowed than they were before treatment began.

The bleaching procedure begins with a consultation and examination of your mouth. A dentist will examine your mouth and evaluate the condition of your teeth and gums before deciding which type of treatment is best for you based on your specific needs and preferences. A series of treatments over a few months or years may be recommended by the dentist to achieve results that last longer than other methods that can be more expensive in the long run.

Types of teeth whitening methods

Products that claim to whiten your teeth but do little to improve their appearance are known as whitening methods. The following are the various types of teeth whitening methods:

Cavity strip

Cavity strip kits are available in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and colors. They whiten the inside of your mouth by removing plaque and stains from between your teeth. Some products can be used as a mouthwash to help remove stains and excess oils. The strips are available in two varieties: one with an adhesive backing and one without. You apply them to your teeth and wait 30 minutes before rinsing them away with water. They should last up to two weeks once dry before needing to be replaced.

Cavity sealer

A cavity sealer is a plastic ring that fits over the two upper front teeth. It can be worn for up to 12 hours and can be worn overnight or during the day while eating or drinking. If you want more results on your next visit, it is removed and replaced with a new one.

Teeth whitening strips

Depending on the product, these small adhesive strips can be placed over the front two upper teeth for up to 12 hours. Each strip contains a unique combination of chemicals that react with stains or excess oils on your teeth, turning them white over time as they decompose within.

Invisible light technology (IVL)

IVL is a non-invasive procedure that targets and removes stains from the surface of your teeth using low-level laser light. In front of your teeth is a light-emitting diode (LED) with an invisible wavelength. The LED accelerates tooth bleaching by hastening the breakdown of peroxide, allowing you to whiten your teeth in under an hour.

Tooth whitening products

Another option for achieving white teeth is to use over-the-counter teeth whitening products. Gel and hydrogen peroxide has been used for a long time, as have more modern products like Zoom Teeth Whitening.

Gel Teeth Whitening

To achieve brighter smiles, some people use gel tooth whitening. These teeth whitening products are simple to use and are widely available in convenience stores and drugstores. Gel tooth whiteners are available in a variety of forms, including cleansers and rinses, gels, glazes, and pastes.

Hydrogen Peroxide Teeth Whitening

Another popular method for teeth whitening is hydrogen peroxide. The advantage of this solution is that it produces quick results while not irritating your gums or mouth. The majority of hydrogen peroxide formulas are dispensed in a syringe-like dispenser that directs the product onto your teeth. This product should not be consumed because it may cause stomach upset.

Zoom Teeth Whitening

The Zoom Teeth Whitening System, a good alternative to hydrogen peroxide, whitens the teeth through a mechanical exfoliation process rather than chemical bleaching agents.

When to take caution with teeth whitening procedures

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Teeth sensitivity

To ensure patient safety, you must not whiten your teeth if you have a history of sensitive teeth. This may include a history of:

  • White spots on the gums due to plaque
  • Bleeding gums
  • Swollen gums
  • Hairline fractures in the enamel of your teeth

Tooth sensitivity is a common side effect of teeth whitening treatments. Tooth sensitivity can be caused by teeth whitening gels or strips. Tooth sensitivity is usually transient and will go away in a few days. If it doesn’t, or if you have any other concerns, contact your dentist right away.

Existing medical conditions

If you are taking medication for a pre-existing condition, please notify your dentist before beginning any treatment. Diabetes and heart disease, for example, necessitate special consideration. Your dentist will advise you on the best course of action.

Are You Eager to Have Your Teeth Whitened? Contact Us Today!

The first thing people notice about you is your beautiful smile. Tarpon Dental offers a one-hour whitening treatment that will make your teeth look brighter, whiter, and healthier! We believe that everyone, regardless of age, deserves a bright and natural-looking smile. Call (727) 332-0930 to make an appointment with our teeth whitening professional dentist for a whiter, brighter smile.