Can Teeth Whitening Damage Teeth?
A beautiful smile is one of the most adorable features of everyone; this is why people go to any length to ensure their teeth are presentable and complement their smiles. Teeth whitening is one of the processes people undergo to achieve a presentable set of teeth. It is the process of removing debris and dirt from the surface of the teeth, thereby restoring the teeth’s color.
According to the American Academy of Cosmetic service, teeth whitening is the most popular cosmetic service. Although teeth whitening can be risky, especially if it’s not done by trained personnel; however the following are some of the reasons most people consider it:
Aging is one of the factors of teeth discoloration. The teeth become colored due to natural changes, excess medications, and cumulative stains from certain foods are also causes of colored teeth. However, with teeth whitening, you look younger than your actual age.
• It improves the appearance
Teeth whitening has a way of enhancing your overall appearance, making you more attractive. With teeth whitening, you win more people with your smile and make more connections. Besides, most people believe people with a white set of teeth are more intelligent.
• It boosts self-confidence
People with white teeth are always confident to talk in public. They are not afraid of smiling or giving speeches in public. People often go for teeth whitening to boost their self-esteem or create a better and lasting first impression.
• It hides imperfections
A lot of people hide their flaws under a white set of teeth. When you have a perfectly white set of teeth, most people overlook every other flaw about you. With teeth whitening, there may be no need for any other cosmetic work.
Methods of Teeth Whitening
There are different available methods to achieve whiter teeth. However, it’s best to confirm with your dentist the suitable method for you. This is to ensure your gums are in good condition to tolerate the treatment option. Below are the different methods of teeth whitening:
• Over-the-counter (OTC) whitening strips and gels
Whitening strips and gels are common over-the-counter dental products that may help whiten discolored teeth and remove stains. Although they are relatively cheap and easy to use, they contain ingredients that may not be suitable for some people. This is why visiting a dentist before using an OTC dental product is essential.
OTC dental products are made of bleaching agents, which can damage the teeth if overused. They also have side effects like gum irritation and tooth sensitivity. The use of whitening strips may be complex for an amateur and require multiple sessions to see a noticeable change.
• Tray-based whiteners
Tray-based whiteners involve the use of whitening trays which are placed over the teeth like a mouth guard. They make the teeth fresher and brighter than they were and come at a cheaper cost than other alternative methods. However, Tray-based whiteners are not suitable for children as they tend to misuse them.
Despite their advantages, tray-based whiteners must be used carefully to avoid ingesting the ingredients, which can be dangerous to the body. You must also ensure that the tray fits perfectly to prevent the bleaching agent from touching the gums, thereby causing gum irritation. This method can take several hours to a day, depending on the level of discoloration.
• Teeth whitening toothpaste
Teeth whitening toothpaste is used to remove surface stains from the teeth. They make the teeth about one shade brighter and do not cause much damage to the teeth. They are made of polishing agents and special abrasives responsible for removing the stains.
Teeth whitening toothpaste is, however, limited in action. They can only remove stains from alcohol, certain medications, or foods since they stain the surface of the teeth. They are also capable of causing tissue damage if overused. Teeth whitening toothpaste takes about two months of consistent use to notice a change.
• Whitening rinses
Whitening rinses help to improve oral health and also freshens the breath. They are made from ingredients such as hydrogen peroxide and can be used to prevent gum diseases or irritation and also remove dental plaque. They are swished in the mouth for about a minute before brushing the teeth.
However, whitening rinses are not as effective as other methods since they don’t last in the mouth. They require several months of consistent use to notice a difference. You must be careful not to overuse them, especially if they contain alcohol. This is because they cause tooth sensitivity and irritate canker sores in the mouth.
• In-office whitening
In-office whitening is another alternative to get bright and perfectly white teeth. They can be relatively more expensive than other methods, but they provide the safest means to a white set of teeth. In-office whitening is done by experienced experts in the field and is done once and for all.
The method involves the application of whitening products to the teeth, after which they are exposed to a laser. With professional in-office whitening, you get a visible difference in less than an hour, and your teeth become many shades lighter. Other advantages of professional in-office whitening are stated below:
I. It is convenient to use.
With a few visits, you get a desirable result. It does not require any effort, unlike the at-home methods. When handled by a professional, it is painless and time-effective.
II. Results are immediate.
A professional in-office whitening allows you to whiten your teeth and show up at impromptu events with a white set of teeth.
III. It removes stubborn stains that go deeper than the tooth surface.
Most other alternatives only remove teeth surface stains, but an in-office whitening goes the extra length to remove stubborn stains that come with age and tobacco.
IV. It is the safest alternative.
Unlike most at-home methods that can be misused or over-used, in-office whitening is risk-free, especially when handled by an expert.
Conclusion
If you have an upcoming event and want to get the spotlight with your beautiful smile, or you care about your oral health and need a safe method to whiten your teeth, then a professional in-office whitening is your best bet. Feel free to contact an experienced dentist to handle your teeth whitening immediately.
