Understanding the Potential Side Effects of Teeth Whitening: What You Need to Know

Whitening (also known as bleaching) is a safe cosmetic dental treatment that lightens the color of natural tooth enamel. The whitening process does not affect crowns, fillings or dentures.

Many people want a brighter, whiter smile for cosmetic reasons or because they feel that it makes them look more attractive. However, it’s important to know the pros and cons of teeth whitening auburn al before undergoing the procedure.

Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is a common dental issue that causes pain or discomfort in your teeth when exposed to certain stimuli, such as hot or cold temperatures, sweet and acidic foods, brushing or chewing. The sensitivity is usually caused by the exposure of an underlying layer of your tooth, called dentin. Dentin is a soft and porous substance that contains nerve fibers.

The root cause of tooth sensitivity is erosion or the loss of the outer layers of your tooth. This can be due to regular consumption of foods with a high acid content, recent dental procedures, gum recession or other factors.

The good news is that you can minimize sensitivity issues with proper oral hygiene practices. This includes daily tooth brushing, flossing and regular dental appointments. You can also use a desensitizing toothpaste or gel to decrease your sensitivity. This toothpaste or gel will make your dentin less permeable, so it is harder for liquid to pass through and reach the nerves inside your tooth.

Gum Irritation

Gum irritation is a common side effect of teeth whitening auburn al. It results from the bleaching agent contacting sensitive gum tissue. This sensitivity can result in burning sensations & pain. Fortunately, it typically resolves quickly. Taking steps to prevent gum irritation is the best way to avoid this side effect during your whitening treatment.

To reduce the risk of irritated gums, brush your teeth twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Rinse with warm saltwater twice a day to remove excess bleaching product & soothe your gums. If you experience discomfort, take an over-the-counter pain reliever.

Other factors that can contribute to irritated gums include hormone changes, smoking, crooked or overlapped teeth & poor oral hygiene habits. To help reduce the likelihood of irritation, schedule a dental cleaning with your dentist to correct any underlying issues that could be contributing to your sensitive gums. They can also recommend a teeth-whitening procedure that is safer for your gums.

Gum Burns

The chemical burns that affect gum tissue after teeth whitening can be painful. They usually heal within a few days, but you should avoid using whitening products until the area has recovered. You should also use sensitive toothpaste to reduce irritation. Rinsing the mouth frequently, eating a soft diet, and using a cold compress can help speed up healing. If you’re experiencing persistent sensitivity, it may be time to consult with a dentist for a safer and more effective treatment.

One of the best ways to prevent gum burns during teeth whitening is to use custom fitted trays that will minimise contact with the whitening gel. It’s also important to wipe away excess gel with a cotton-tipped applicator and to use the lowest concentration of whitening agent possible. A desensitizing gel can help reduce pain and sensitivity in the gums after whitening. You can buy these at most dental clinics. Alternatively, you can make your own at home with clove oil and tea tree oil.

Teeth Whitening Side Effects

While teeth whitening procedures are highly effective at brightening teeth, they can also have negative side effects. These side effects are often related to the bleaching agents used in whitening treatments. The most common are sensitivity and irritation of the soft tissues of the mouth, including the gums. These side effects usually fade within a few days of stopping or completing the whitening treatment.

Teeth whitening works by dissolving the natural mineral deposits on your teeth that create stains. The bleaching agents then break up the stains and whiten your teeth. Some stains, such as those caused by traumatic injuries, medications and fluorosis, are embedded in the tooth enamel, while others appear on the surface of your teeth.

Teeth whitening is not permanent, and touch-ups may be needed every several years or more frequently, depending on your lifestyle and oral hygiene habits. It is also important to follow the instructions for your specific whitening product to avoid side effects.