Thanks to advances in modern dentistry, professional teeth whitening solutions that are administered by your dentist, can whiten your teeth and strengthen your tooth enamel at the same time. Because patients ask us about it all the time, we have decided to address the question of ‘is teeth whitening safe’ for those patients who may feel uncertain.
Why Teeth Become Discoloured?
Tooth discolouration is a natural consequence of the ageing process. As we get older the dentin inside our teeth turns from white into yellow. This is known as intrinsic staining and in order to address it, a teeth whitening product needs to penetrate your dental enamel. Our teeth also discolour as a result of exposure to different substances like red wine, coffee, caffeinated beverages and tobacco products. These are external stains that can often be managed with dental polishing, but which may enhance the look of yellow teeth.
In order to whiten teeth effectively, the product must penetrate your dental enamel without weakening it so it is essential that you use a product that is fortified to protect and remineralise your teeth while they are bleached. This is why over the counter products like whitening kits, whitening toothpaste and whitening strips are ineffective. Many whitening kinds of toothpaste actually contain abrasive substances that can cause damage to the surface of the teeth and should be avoided.
How Safe Is Teeth Whitening?
While many patients may think that they can whiten their teeth using natural home remedies such as lemon juice, baking soda and charcoal, the reality is that these substances can do more harm than good.
By law, only your dentist is permitted to administer whitening products that contain more than 6% hydrogen peroxide because safety precautions need to be adhered to. This legislation has come about as a result of patients self-administering teeth whitening treatments and leaving it on their teeth for too long, or using it more often than recommended. It is best to discuss your whitening options with your dentist rather than rely on Internet-based advice.
Not only is it your dentist’s role to ensure that whitening products are being used safely and effectively, but your dentist also needs to check that you are in fact eligible for a whitening treatment. You need a consultation and dental clean before doing any teeth bleaching, in order to remove all traces of plaque and tartar from your teeth and give your dentist a blank canvas to work on. Your dentist also needs to check that your teeth and gums are healthy enough for bleaching and will inspect your mouth for signs of dental decay, gum disease and cracks in the surface of your teeth.
So, Is Teeth Whitening Safe?
If you consult with a reputable and experienced dentist and make use of professional quality teeth whitening products, your teeth whitening experience should be safe. It is your dentist’s job to ensure that you are not at risk of complications and that your teeth are strong and healthy enough for bleaching.
Still want to know about is teeth whitening safe? It’s always best to get a professional opinion. Please contact us for an appointment: (02) 8806 0578.
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