The potential side effects of teeth whitening include teeth sensitivity, gum irritation, and ineffective results. However, most patients do not experience any notable side effects from professional teeth whitening, as the dentist can monitor the process and perform treatment in a way that minimizes risk.
Possible side effects of teeth whitening
Dentists take every precaution possible to minimize the risk of teeth sensitivity and gum irritation during treatment. However, side effects can occur in some instances, especially for those that use an over-the-counter whitening kit that is not prescribed by a dentist.
Teeth sensitivity
Teeth sensitivity is one of the most commonly reported side effects of teeth whitening. This can occur if the patient has weakened enamel or if the whitening is not properly administered. In-office whitening is the best way to minimize the risk of sensitivity during and after treatment as the dental professional can apply the bleaching agent in the safest way possible. Dentists often recommend certain treatments before whitening, if necessary, to reduce the risk of sensitivity. For example, dentists may recommend a patient with dental cavities receive dental fillings before the whitening procedure.
Gum irritation
In-office whitening involves isolating the teeth from the gums using a dental dam. This significantly reduces the risk of gum irritation. However, gum irritation can occur if the gums are not properly isolated or if the take-home or store-bought kit is not properly applied. Most patients do not experience any issues with gum irritation, particularly when it is performed in the office and administered by a dental professional.
Ineffective results
It is important to have realistic expectations as to what to expect from treatment. Teeth whitening can remove most minor stains, but it is not effective in treating more severe stains, known as “intrinsic stains.” The dentist can show you on a shade guide the type of results you can expect and go over your alternative options if the ideal results cannot be achieved through teeth whitening.
There are often no side effects
As mentioned, most patients do not experience any side effects from teeth whitening treatments, particularly when it is performed in-office. Before treatment begins, talk to the dentist about ways to reduce the risk of side effects during or after treatment.
The importance of professional treatment
Most people who experience complications from teeth whitening do so by trying store-bought whitening kits. While for some patients they may be useful, they are not nearly as safe or as effective as professional treatment. Instead, it is best to visit a professional for teeth whitening, and the results can last much longer with less of a risk of side effects.
Learn more about teeth whitening treatment today
Reach out to our team today to learn more about the potential side effects of teeth whitening and to arrange a visit for treatment. Here at our practice, it is our mission to ensure our patients achieve a smile that brings them joy and that they enjoy showing off, and many of our patients achieve this through professional teeth whitening.
Are you considering teeth whitening in the Mountain View area? Get more information at https://smilesdental.com.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Teeth Whitening in Mountain View, CA.
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FAQs
One of the most common side effects is tooth sensitivity, which can occur during or after treatment. Overuse or misuse of teeth whitening products can also lead to enamel damage, gum irritation, and discoloration. Additionally, some types of tooth discoloration may not respond well to teeth whitening treatments.
What adverse effects may a patient experience during tooth whitening? ›
The potential side effects of teeth whitening include teeth sensitivity, gum irritation, and ineffective results.
Are teeth whitening treatments causing long term side effects? ›
Although teeth whitening rarely causes long term damage, temporary sensitivity is not uncommon. If you experience any discomfort following your treatment, your dentist can help you minimize irritation in the future.
What are the side effects of his smile? ›
These effects are most commonly tooth hypersensitivity (often referred to as 'zingers'), and soft tissue (gum) irritation.
Who should not do teeth whitening? ›
Children under 16 years of age. Patients with periodontal disease, tooth decay, cavities and exposed roots. People who are allergic to teeth bleaching whitening agents like peroxide. Individuals with sensitive teeth.
How to whiten teeth over 60? ›
Bleaching Trays
Compared to commercial products, whitening trays from your dentist are stronger and much safer for seniors in particular. As you age, your gums and teeth can become more sensitive. Your dentist can first evaluate your oral health to determine if you are eligible to receive teeth whitening.
Can teeth whitening make you feel ill? ›
For example, if the mouthguard containing the bleaching gel does not fit properly some of it may leak and cause painful chemical burns. In extreme cases, people have been sick after swallowing the bleaching product.
Can teeth whitening damage nerves? ›
There has been no evidence found that teeth whitening can lead to nerve damage. A study followed patients for seven years. During this time they were using teeth whitening systems. No patient needed any additional work on their teeth performed such as a root canal due to the whitening.
Is smile Pro safe? ›
Conclusion: The SMILE Pro® is a safe, efficient, and predictable procedure for the treatment of myopia and myopic astigmatism, with comparable results of conventional SMILE surgery. High myopic eyes achieve better results than low and moderate myopia. No complications were recorded in our patients.
How long does teeth whitening stay in your system? ›
The effects of teeth whitening can last up to 2-3 years or as little as six months, and it varies from person to person. It won't last as long if you indulge in things that stain your teeth, such as: Smoking. Dark liquids like red wine, coffee, and tea.
But tooth whitening comes with a few risks, and it's not right for some ages. If you're younger than 18, you can't have some forms of tooth whitening. And if you still have your baby teeth, you might need to skip any type of whitening product altogether. No upper age limit applies to tooth whitening products.
How many times a year is it safe to whiten teeth? ›
We advise whitening your teeth just once a year, whether professionally or at home. This should keep sensitivity from becoming a problem while helping you maintain a white, natural-looking smile. Typically, the professional-grade whitening kits available from our dental office last about a year.
What is the disadvantage of smile correction? ›
The main con of getting a smile makeover is that there is potential for discomfort. A lot of the procedures involved in the process can induce sensitivity or slight feelings of pain. Two procedures that are known to cause discomfort are dental implant placement and gum reshaping, both of which require oral surgery.
Does his smile make your teeth sensitive? ›
They also guarantee no pain or sensitivity at any point during or after the whitening process, and results of up to 8 shades whiter teeth.
Can your teeth affect your smile? ›
Losing a tooth may not seem like a big deal to some people, but missing teeth can affect your smile in several ways. They can even change the shape of your face and result in loss of bone in the jawline.
Is it safe to get your teeth Whitened? ›
In-office whitening is highly effective, safe, and long-lasting. But it's more expensive than over-the-counter options, and often isn't covered by dental insurance. Ask your dentist for a cost estimate before committing to teeth whitening.
What are the pros and cons of teeth whitening? ›
Teeth whitening can offer numerous benefits, such as enhanced aesthetics and improved self-confidence. However, it is important to consider the potential drawbacks, including tooth sensitivity, gum irritation, temporary results, and potential enamel damage.
Can yellow teeth become white again? ›
What Can Be Done to Whiten Yellow Teeth? If you're looking for a radical change in the coloring of your teeth, you need professional-grade whitening to get the job done. Your cosmetic dentist can provide treatment that penetrates deep into the enamel and removes years of stains with a powerful bleaching agent.
How often should you whiten your teeth? ›
We advise whitening your teeth just once a year, whether professionally or at home. This should keep sensitivity from becoming a problem while helping you maintain a white, natural-looking smile. Typically, the professional-grade whitening kits available from our dental office last about a year.
