If you have always wanted a brighter smile, then you have probably considered using one of the many in-home whitening systems that are available at most drug stores. While effective in bleaching your teeth, these products do not come without potential risks. It is for this reason that you should make an appointment with a cosmetic dentist, who can offer you safe and effective in-office treatment options for whiter teeth. Here are some potential risks you may face as a result of in-home whitening systems.
Bleeding Irritated Gums
In-home whitening treatments can cause bleeding, irritated gums. The active ingredient in these whitening systems is typically hydrogen peroxide, and while using a small amount of peroxide diluted in warm water and used as an oral rinse is not usually harmful to gum tissue, the concentration of hydrogen peroxide in bleaching kits is often much higher. If your gums feel sore or bleed when you use whitening strips or other types of dental bleaching products, discontinue use right away.
If you notice sloughing of your gum tissue or if your gums turn gray or white, see your cosmetic dentist as soon as possible. These signs may be indicative of tissue damage and will need to be treated as soon as possible.
Dental Sensitivity
Another potential risk of using tooth whitening products without dental supervision is the risk for dental sensitivity. While sensitivity usually occurs when you have left the product on longer than recommended, it can happen even if you have carefully followed the packaging instructions.
Dental sensitivity may worsen when your teeth come into contact with very hot, cold, or sweet foods or beverages, and while it typically resolves after a few days, you may need to see your dentist for further evaluation and treatment.
Your dentist will examine your teeth to see if you have signs of dental erosion, which may develop after long-term use of in-home bleaching products. Toothpastes specially formulated for treating dental sensitivity may also be recommended by your dentist to help soothe overactive nerves.
If you are in the market for whiter teeth, make an appointment with your dentist, instead of relying on in-home strategies. Your dental professional will recommend safe and effective treatment options that will whiten your teeth by many shades.
It is important to note, however, that if you have dental stains known as intrinsic stains, bleaching or laser whitening may be ineffective. For these types of stains, which are often caused by maternal use of the antibiotic tetracycline, porcelain veneers or bonding may be more effective. Your cosmetic dentist will determine which treatment options is best suited for your situation.
For more information, reach out to dental clinics like Dental Implant & Cosmetic, PC.
Share30 January 2019
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