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.
Possible side effects of teeth whitening
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
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.
Gum irritation
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.
Ineffective results
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.
There are often no side effects
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.
The importance of professional 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.
Learn more about teeth whitening treatment today
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.
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FAQs
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.
What are the downsides of teeth whitening? ›
One of the most common side effects is tooth sensitivity, which can occur during or after treatment. Overuse or misuse of teeth whitening products can also lead to enamel damage, gum irritation, and discoloration. Additionally, some types of tooth discoloration may not respond well to teeth whitening treatments.
Is Smile Sciences teeth whitening safe? ›
The Smile Science Harley Street Teeth Whitening Pen only contains ingredients that are proven safe for your enamel. We do not use any harsh abrasive ingredients in our Whitening Pens.
What are the side effects of his smile? ›
These effects are most commonly tooth hypersensitivity (often referred to as 'zingers'), and soft tissue (gum) irritation.
Is there anything bad about teeth whitening? ›
What are the risks of teeth whitening? No matter what treatment you use, there's a chance your gums will be sensitive to the chemicals used in teeth whitening, particularly if you already have sensitive teeth. There's also a chance of burns to gums and some of the whitening kits used at home can harm tooth enamel.
Why do dentists not recommend teeth whitening? ›
Tooth and gum sensitivity and pain
Store-bought products may contain abrasive substances like hydrogen peroxide, which can be effective if used minimally, but in large doses can cause erosion of teeth's enamel and shrinkage of the gums.
What is the safest teeth whitening method? ›
At-Home Custom Tray Whitening
For the safest and most effective at-home teeth whitening method, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) recommends you use custom-fitted trays supplied by your dentist. Ill-fitting teeth whitening trays can cause the gel to ooze out and irritate your gums.
How often should you use smile teeth whitening? ›
Dentists typically recommend getting one or two professional whitening treatments per year. At-home whitening kits can be used for up to 14 consecutive days. People who have gotten professional whitening can maintain their results by using these kits a few times a year.
How long does smile science last? ›
You will see rapid visible results in the first few days with teeth up to 8 shades whiter after the full 10-day whitening treatment. Then maintain your dazzling smile with high-performance vitamin enriched aftercare products designed to prevent future stains.
How long does smile direct whitening last? ›
Each treatment takes about one week to complete, giving customers a smile that is up to 9 shades whiter and results that can last up to six months.
The more you smile, the less negative thoughts will come into your head. When you smile, it sends a message to your brain that 'Life is good. ' That also helps to improve your mood and relieve stress (see above). Boost Your Immune System.
Can your teeth affect your smile? ›
Losing a tooth may not seem like a big deal to some people, but missing teeth can affect your smile in several ways. They can even change the shape of your face and result in loss of bone in the jawline.
What is the rarest smile? ›
The Charismatic Complex Smile
A complex smile lives up to its name. It's the most complex smile style, and it's also the most rare, found in only about 2% of people naturally.
Can yellow teeth become white again? ›
Fortunately, there are ways of making your yellow teeth white, from improving your oral hygiene and diet to visiting the dentist and having them professionally whitened. There's no need to feel ashamed of your smile anymore.
Does teeth whitening damage your enamel? ›
We all want a white brighter smile. But this begs the question “does teeth whitening damage the enamel?” The answer is no. While there may sometimes be side effects, whitening treatment is safe on tooth enamel. The process of tooth whitening is essentially the tooth will become dehydrated, meaning dried out.
What are the pros and cons of getting your teeth whitened? ›
Pros and Cons of Professional Teeth Whitening
- Appearance. About 96% of adults think people with attractive smiles are more physically appealing, according to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. ...
- Confidence. ...
- Professional success. ...
- Tooth sensitivity. ...
- Gum irritation. ...
- Enamel damage.
Teeth whitening can offer numerous benefits, such as enhanced aesthetics and improved self-confidence. However, it is important to consider the potential drawbacks, including tooth sensitivity, gum irritation, temporary results, and potential enamel damage.
How long does teeth whitening last? ›
The effects of teeth whitening can last up to 2-3 years or as little as 6 months. It varies from person to person. Things that will stain your teeth quickly and make your whitening short-lived include: – Smoking.
How often should you whiten your teeth? ›
We advise whitening your teeth just once a year, whether professionally or at home. This should keep sensitivity from becoming a problem while helping you maintain a white, natural-looking smile. Typically, the professional-grade whitening kits available from our dental office last about a year.
