Teeth whitening is the process of lightening the teeth. It involves careful removal of stains and discoloration to make the pearly whites look clean and healthier again. It works by breaking down the organic molecules responsible for staining teeth.
There are two ways to perform teeth whitening – through an in-office treatment or at home with over-the-counter products. In-office treatments typically use a bleaching agent (such as hydrogen peroxide) that is activated with a light or laser, while over-the-counter products typically use toothpaste or gel that contains a peroxide bleaching agent. Learn more about these options on this page: https://dentaldesigns.com.sg/dentists-guide-teeth-whitening-singapore-2022/.
Is Teeth Whitening Safe? And are there any Risks Involved?
For persons who are considering teeth whitening treatments, it isn’t unnatural to bump into this question; “Does teeth whitening damage your teeth?” If this is an issue that has been troubling you as well, the answer is: No; teeth whitening is safe. The bleaching agents used in both in-office and over-the-counter treatments are effective and have been used for many years.
However, it is important to consult with your dentist before undergoing any type of teeth whitening treatment to ensure that it is right for you. This is important because just like any other known treatments, teeth whitening isn’t for everybody.
Besides, it isn’t entirely safe as there are a few risks that come with it. For example, if the bleaching agent comes into contact with your gums, it can cause irritation or burning.
In rare cases, teeth may become more sensitive after teeth whitening treatment. If you experience any discomfort or increased sensitivity after whitening your teeth, consult your dentist immediately.
Do note also that, while teeth whitening is safe and really shouldn’t damage the teeth, not every clinic follows safety protocols. So, if you’re thinking of getting teeth whitening done, be sure to do your research at the clinic and dentist first. Here are five helpful questions to ask before choosing a clinic:
- Can I see before and after photos of your service? You do not want to choose a clinic that provides subpar results. Just to be sure that the clinic is doing a good job, ask to see their before and after photos. The before and after photos should be of the same person, so you can see the results of the whitening treatment.
- For how long have you been performing teeth whitening treatments? A clinic with a long history of providing teeth whitening treatments is likely to be reputable and have a lot of experience. However, just because a clinic has been around for a while doesn’t mean they’re good. So be sure to ask this question and do your research about the facility. During the research, it would really help if you spare a bit of your time to check reviews of the clinic online. These reviews will give you an idea of what to expect from the clinic and whether or not it is worth your money.
- Do you use a bleaching agent that is safe for my teeth? Not all bleaching agents are the same. Some are harsher on the teeth and can cause damage. So, it is important to ask the clinic what bleaching agent they will be using on your teeth.
- What are the side effects of the bleaching agent? Every bleaching agent has different side effects. Some may cause teeth to become more sensitive, while others may cause gums to become irritated. It is important to be aware of the side effects of the bleaching agent before undergoing treatment. For issues such as sensitivity which are pretty common, your cosmetic dentist should discuss with you the best ways of managing them.
- What safety protocols are in place? Every clinic should have safety protocols in place to ensure the safety of their patients. Make sure to ask the clinic what safety protocols they have in place. If they can’t answer this question or don’t have any safety protocols, it is best to avoid that clinic.
Can you safely whiten your Teeth at Home without damaging them in the Process?
Another question we get frequently—especially among patients concerned about teeth whitening safety and considering home teeth whitening is; “can you actually whiten your teeth at home safely?” The answer is; yes, you can safely whiten your teeth at home without damaging them in the process.
In fact, we do sometimes recommend home teeth whitening for our patients. There are, however a few things you should keep in mind when whitening your teeth at home:
- Always use toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth, to prevent any discomfort or sensitivity.
- If you’re using a bleaching agent other than hydrogen peroxide, make sure to follow the directions on the package carefully and avoid over-applying the agent.
- Be sure to avoid eating or drinking anything acidic, such as oranges or grapefruit juice, for at least an hour after whitening your teeth.
- If you experience any discomfort or sensitivity, stop using the bleaching agent and consult your dentist.
- If you’re using teeth whitening kits from the drugstore, be sure to read the instructions carefully and only use the whitening agent as directed.
- Use a mouth guard if you’re whitening your teeth with strips or a bleaching agent to protect your gums from becoming irritated.
The most important thing to remember when whitening your teeth at home is to take your time and be patient. Depending on your teeth and the type of bleaching agent you’re using, it may take a few treatments to achieve the desired results. So be sure to stick with it and don’t give up. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to consult with your dentist.
In Closing
It is important to remember that everyone’s teeth are different, and some people may experience more discomfort or sensitivity than others. So, if you’re considering home teeth whitening, be sure to consult with your dentist first to see if it is the right option for you.
And, if you’re not happy with the results of your teeth whitening treatment, be sure to speak to your dentist about it. They may be able to recommend a different treatment or procedure that will give you the results you’re looking for.
At Dental Designs Clinic, we want you to have the whitest, brightest smile possible. We offer both in-office and at-home teeth whitening treatments, so we can cater to your needs and preferences. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and find out which teeth whitening treatment is right for you. Call: +6562218284.
Dental Designs Clinic (Telok Ayer) – Invisalign, Whitening, Dental Crowns
120 Telok Ayer St, Singapore 068589
+65 6221 8284
