Teeth whitening is most likely the most popular cosmetic dental procedure in the world. The procedure creates a brighter smile and increases self-confidence at the same time. However, like any dental procedure, there are inherent risks to teeth whitening.

Below are some of the dental risks that should be addressed and discussed with the cosmetic dentist before undertaking the procedure.

1. Irritation of the Gums

Some individuals that undergo teeth whitening will experience gum irritation. The whitening agent can cause the gums to become red and sore. Mouth trays created as a part of the process may be blaming the tissue in the mouth causing inflammation.

Individuals suffering from gum irritation after whitening should use oral antiseptics and contact their dentist for further information or treatment.

2. Increased Teeth Sensitivity

Bleaching agents commonly used for teeth whitening can cause increased sensitivity to teeth. Individuals can encounter discomfort and the teeth may become more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures.

Individuals with previous issues, including gum recession and cracked teeth, may experience greater sensitivity. The dentist could recommend desensitizing toothpaste and other products which can reduce the sensitivity of teeth, eventually resolving the problem.

3. Damage to Enamel

Excessive use of teeth whitening chemical agents can cause damage to tooth enamel, especially when adhering to improper application. Enamel can become weak, vulnerable to decay, and can cause permanent damage to teeth.

Using chemical agents too frequently or in amounts that exceed the dentist’s recommendations can also lead to this issue. Dental fluorosis is a dental condition that can result from an oversupply of fluorine, resulting in complications with the teeth enamel.

Patients should pay extra attention to the dose of teeth whitening agents to minimize the likelihood of enamel harm.

4. Uneven Results

Teeth whitening will not deliver uniform results. There may be areas where some teeth will appear lighter than others.

As teeth whitening focuses on natural teeth, and the level of whiteness depends on a number of factors, like how much it is discolored and how it absorbs the attack of the bleach. In-office teeth whitening therapies may provide slightly more reliable outcome than home bleaching treatments, but even expert dental practitioners can’t guarantee even outcomes.

5. The Teeth Whitening Process is Not Suitable for Everyone

Preliminary consultations or professional assessments are needed to ensure this process is suitable for someone’s individual oral condition. It should be taken note that – Teeth whitening may not work for everyone.

This may not affect the persons who have heavily yellow stains. Also, anyone with existing sensitive teeth or gums, gingivitis, severe tooth decay or chipped teeth would not be a suitable candidate for teeth whitening. This technique is also not recommended for pregnant or nursing women.

6. Increased Risk of Gum Disease

If opting for a home-based, over-the-counter teeth whitening approach, since the trays need to be boiled and shaped in the mouth, the more prolonged the contact with the gums, the greater the impact.

Misaligned trays or poorly-fitted trays can contribute to an excess of the chemical solution causing gum sensitivity or other dental tissue irritation, leading to gum disease. To mitigate this risk, the most important step would be visiting a dental professional to provide effective guidance avoiding this scenario.

7. Teeth Whitening Can’t Last Forever

The whitening effects of teeth whitening do not last permanently. Every individual is different, and how long the whitening procedure lasts will vary on diet, oral habit, medication, and other lifestyle factors.

For those who smoke or drink alcoholic beverages, it won’t last as long as those who don’t. The coloring product used to apply the treatment will off after about three to six months, personally depended. After that, modifications or touch-ups to maintain the result are recommended.

8. Overuse of Teeth Whitening Could Damage the Restorations

Teeth restorations, such as veneers, bonding or crowns, are not typically whitened. This means that after teeth whitening, the color of the teeth restoration can differ from the natural teeth, leading to an unbalanced look.

Overuse of whitening, when attempting to equalize the color, can lead to unintentional harm to the restoration and require timely attention and care to restore the restoration.

9. Unlicensed Whitening Services

In the pursuit of on-demand teeth whitening, some people opt to go to the less expensive, less professional, low quality or unlicensed dental services.

The quality of teeth whitening products is often questionable in these situations, and also the level of care in such environments. This can put a person at risk for many complications such as sensitivity and irritation. Approaching a licensed/certified practitioner for teeth whitening services provides a level of professionalism that can help avoid these risks.

10. Improper Oral Care Might Reduce the Longevity of the Results of Teeth Whitening

Good oral hygiene is the key to keeping teeth whiter longer. To ensure long-lasting results of teeth whitening, accurate oral care must be maintained.

Proper brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist regularly are the most important aspects of maintaining long-lasting results. It’s also beneficial to stop habits such as smoking, consuming sugary foods and drinks, and engaging in other unhealthy oral practices.

Conclusion

Teeth whitening has its perks and its pitfalls, including inflammation, increased sensitivity to the teeth, damage to the tooth enamel, patchy results, and the risk of gum disease.

These risks should be considered when opting for teeth whitening to make sure the risks are minimized while the benefits are maximized.