Tooth Whitening: How Safe Is It?
There are nowadays several different tooth whitening products and procedures being used, and in this article we’ll take a brief look at how these different processes work. We’ll also take a look at what your options are as far as treatments are concerned, and we’ll also touch on the safety aspect of each treatment. As is to be expected, there are a few possible risks and side effects, but this is something you encounter with practically any medical or cosmetic procedure. For example, pregnant women are advised against tooth whitening treatments, but of course this doesn’t mean everyone should avoid them.
It’s also worth remembering that whitening products essentially affect tooth enamel which is designed to protect the inner core of a person’s teeth. Things such as chewing, tooth grinding, and various foods, all cause the tooth enamel to begin eroding, and this in turn results in minute cracks appearing on the surface. These tiny cracks are an ideal environment for debris and stains to accumulate.
Stains can also occur on the interior of the tooth due to ageing or tooth trauma. These stains can also be removed with whitening treatments, though they are much more difficult to remove and require a longer treatment time.
The active ingredient in most whitening solutions is either carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide. When these ingredients are exposed to oxygen, they break down, breaking down the stains on the enamel in the process. When the solution is removed, the stains are then more readily removed.
If you intend going for tooth whitening, you’ll find that there are generally three options available to you. The first option is an “in office” procedure which takes approximately one hour, during which you will have a concentrated peroxide gel applied to your teeth. The gel is then activated by means of a special blue light in order to speed up the oxidation process.
The “at home” treatment utilizes a weaker gel which you then place into trays which have been specifically made to fit your teeth. These are then left in place for approximately one hour each day. Generally speaking, over-the-counter tooth whitening treatments are the cheapest option, and they’re also the most readily available.
These treatments can be found at most drug stores, and of course they contain a much less concentrated solution. Over-the-counter treatments work best when used after a professional whitening treatment.
Irrespective of which whitening procedure you choose, it’s important to remember that they’re all carry very similar risks and side effects. Tooth whitening in general is considered to be an extremely safe procedure, providing it’s done in the proper manner. Also, in order to achieve the best possible results, it’s essential that you follow the manufacturer’s directions to the letter.
The most common side effect reported by people who have undergone treatment is that of gum sensitivity. This type of reaction is usually short lived and it usually ends abruptly once treatment has been discontinued.
Those who experience tooth sensitivity can use sensitivity toothpaste if they wish. Those who experience gum irritation may also notice redness along the edges of their gums, and this can be accompanied by a certain amount of discomfort.
One should also try to avoid swallowing the peroxide gel, bearing in mind that it can be dangerous if you swallow more than the amount used in the average application. As with all medications, tooth whitening gel should be kept out of reach of children. If you do accidentally swallow a bit of gel, it won’t have any adverse affect on your body.
Damage to the enamel is extremely rare, and if it does happen, it can usually be reversed by using remineralizing toothpaste. This sort of damage can be avoided completely if you follow your dentist’s instructions.
The bottom line is; tooth whitening is known to be a safe procedure, and to date, there have been no cases of permanent damage reported.
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