Who doesn’t want a pearly white smile?
Demand for teeth whitening services has soared in the past decade. Everybody wants that Hollywood smile. But have you ever stopped to consider…
Is teeth whitening bad for your oral health?
The good news is teeth whitening is safe and effective when done properly. But there are some important facts you should know before you get your smile brightened.
Let’s take a closer look at how teeth whitening affects your oral health and teeth. We’ll cover:
- How Teeth Whitening Impacts Your Oral Health
- The Science Behind Teeth Whitening Treatments
- Professional Teeth Whitening Vs. At-Home Treatments
- Tips for Safe and Effective Teeth Whitening
How Teeth Whitening Impacts Your Oral Health
First things first.
Teeth whitening lightens teeth by using a peroxide-based bleaching agent. The chemicals in the whitening gel work to break down the large stain molecules into smaller particles. The effect? Visibly lighter teeth.
The American Academy of Orthodontists found that 90% of people had requested teeth whitening treatment. So that’s a lot of teeth getting brighter.
But does it damage your teeth? Research from the National Library of Medicine shows that whitening is a safe and effective way to brighten your teeth when done in accordance with manufacturers protocols. Notice we said in “accordance” with protocols.
Getting professional teeth whitening means you’re getting the procedure done under supervision. That matters because dental professionals are familiar with the science of teeth whitening and what it does. They can customize treatments for your needs and pre-existing conditions.
Here’s the thing…
Not everyone is a good candidate for teeth whitening. People with existing gum disease, tooth decay or cavities, or severely dark teeth will need a complete oral exam first. Dental restorations like crowns and fillings also don’t respond to whitening treatments.
The Science Behind Teeth Whitening Treatments
But how does teeth whitening really work?
A little knowledge goes a long way when it comes to making good decisions about your oral health.
The active ingredients are hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide. The bleaching agents penetrate the tooth enamel and target the discolored areas beneath the tooth surface. The treatments work to break down both extrinsic stains on the tooth surface and intrinsic stains below the surface.
Here’s a simple analogy…
Coffee, tea, and red wine stains build up on tooth enamel over time. The peroxide reacts to the chromophores, releasing free radicals that oxidize the large stain molecules. The result? Smaller particles that are less visible to the naked eye.
Simple, right?
Temporary tooth sensitivity and gingival inflammation are the most common side effects, according to the American Dental Association. Research estimates that tooth sensitivity occurs in 43% to 80% of patients following whitening procedures.
But here’s the thing most people don’t know…
That sensitivity is only temporary. The symptoms will pass within a few days. The whitening ingredients open up tiny channels in the tooth enamel that will reseal themselves naturally over time.
Some studies have shown that aggressive teeth bleaching can cause surface demineralization. But this occurs primarily in the case of misuse or overuse of high-concentration peroxide products. Sticking to recommended guidelines minimizes most risks.
Professional Teeth Whitening Vs. At-Home Treatments
Teeth whitening can be done in a number of ways. Each method has its own oral health benefits and things to consider.
In-Office Teeth Whitening
Professional in-office whitening uses higher concentrations of bleaching agents. A dentist will apply a protective gel to the gums prior to treatment to avoid irritation and ensure patient safety.
The benefits are obvious:
- Results in less time (sometimes a single treatment)
- Professional supervision during the entire process
- Customization to individual needs and pre-existing conditions
- Greater control over the whitening process
An in-office treatment can increase the whiteness of your teeth by five to eight shades in a single session. Just imagine the impact in only one hour.
Results from professional whitening usually last between six months and three years. Maintaining good oral hygiene and making smart lifestyle choices will increase the longevity of those brighter results.
At-Home Teeth Whitening
Whitening kits dispensed by your dentist offer another option. These at-home kits include custom-made trays and professionally-strength bleaching gel. You can expect to see results after two to four weeks of regular use.
Over-the-counter teeth whitening products like strips and whitening toothpastes are also available. These products have lower concentrations of peroxide. It takes longer and the results are more subtle.
A recent Delta Dental 2024 survey revealed that 52% of adults consider the brightness of their teeth one of their top oral health priorities. With so many people in the market for whitening, choosing the right method is important.
Here’s the bottom line…
Professional treatments offer more control over the process and faster results. At-home options are effective but require more patience and strict adherence to instructions.
Tips for Safe and Effective Teeth Whitening
Want to whiten your teeth but without sacrificing your oral health? Follow these guidelines.
Consult with a Dentist First
This is probably the most important step. Always visit your dentist before starting any kind of whitening treatment. A dentist will be able to spot issues that may make whitening a challenge or provide the best approach based on your individual needs.
Follow Product Instructions
Can’t stress this one enough. Don’t overuse whitening products. Doing so will cause sensitivity and potential enamel damage. More is not better when it comes to whitening your teeth.
Choose Quality Products
Look for over-the-counter products with the ADA Seal of Acceptance. This indicates that the product has been tested for safety and efficacy. Avoid generic products with unknown ingredients.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits are the best way to avoid future stains. Good oral hygiene will also increase the longevity of whitening results. It also just helps to keep your teeth and gums in tip-top shape.
Avoid Staining Foods and Drinks
Coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco are some of the worst offenders. Limit your exposure to these foods and drinks to increase the longevity of whitening results. Some people will re-stain within a month without lifestyle modifications.
Pay Attention to Warning Signs
If you experience sensitivity, gum irritation or discomfort that does not dissipate within a few days, be sure to let your dentist know. These symptoms are usually temporary. But they should go away within a few days.
Be Patient for Results
The problem with expecting miracles overnight is that you will overuse and irritate your teeth and gums. Whitening your teeth gradually is actually safer and often provides better long-term results. Be patient and your enamel and gum health will thank you.
Wrapping Things Up
Teeth whitening is a great way to dramatically increase the appearance of your smile without sacrificing your oral health. Millions of people safely whiten their teeth every year.
The key is doing it the right way. Professional supervision, using quality products, and following instructions will all make a difference. Cutting corners or disregarding guidelines will only increase your risk.
Let’s recap:
- Teeth whitening is safe when used as directed
- Professional teeth whitening offers faster, more controlled results
- Temporary tooth sensitivity is and should pass within a few days
- Consult with a dentist before starting whitening treatment
- Quality products and correct technique will minimize problems
The demand for teeth whitening services will continue to grow because people like to have white teeth. There’s nothing wrong with that.
But there is nothing wrong with your teeth either. A great smile starts with healthy teeth. Prioritize oral health and the rest will follow.
