Everyone wants a bright, healthy smile and teeth whitening is a popular way to get one. If you’re thinking about whitening your teeth but still have some questions, then this blog is for you. These are the common questions asked at our Oakville dental clinic and our responses. If you still have some questions be sure to get in touch with our office.
How can I get whiter teeth?
Rinses, whitening strips, ZOOM teeth whitening, or custom fitted trays are some of the ways to get whiter teeth. Not all methods provide the same results.
Over the counter, options are tempting because they cost less and seem convenient. But there are risks If used the wrong way. The primary concern is how easy it is to swallow the bleaching agent when using a ‘one size fits all’ whitening strip. Without supervision by a professional, it’s also possible to intensify an existing dental problem or increase tooth sensitivity.
Professional treatment by a dentist is well researched and is shown to be both effective and safe.
Is teeth whitening good for you?
The result of whiter teeth is beneficial for reasons beyond how the teeth look. Our two favourite outcomes from treatment are improved self-confidence and oral hygiene.
After treatment, our patients report that they smile readily and more often. We notice that when people are happy with their smile, they take better care of it. For these reasons, we believe teeth whitening is good for you, as long as it is done professionally.
Is teeth whitening safe?
The active bleaching ingredient in most whitening products is carbamide peroxide, which yields hydrogen peroxide. Teeth whitening is considered safe when treated under the supervision of a dentist using products with low hydrogen peroxide concentration.
Research suggests that the protein-rich layer of dentin, found under the enamel of the tooth is gradually chipped away by hydrogen peroxide. When misused, store-bought whitening agents may cause damaging effects on teeth.
Why store-bought whitening strips are unsafe
Over the counter options contain concentrations of up to 13% hydrogen peroxide, which is enough to be concerned about improper use and ingestion. A ‘one size fits all’ whitening strip risks the bleaching agent leaking into the mouth and being swallowed. Leaving the whitening strips on for a prolonged period can cause tooth sensitivity, which may intensify if there is decay present on the tooth.
Over the counter whitening agents can etch enamel
Some over the counter whitening agents actually etch enamel and cause it to erode. Over time, you lose part of the tooth structure that protects the tooth from damage. This can lead to the need for more invasive dental treatment like crowns due to that damage.
Every person is different; before undergoing any type of teeth whitening treatment, self-administered or not, speak to your dentist.
If you are interested to learn more about ZOOM teeth whitening Oakville, at-home options or have a question about your specific situation, call 905-338-6684 or fill out the form to connect with Oakville Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Bis.
More information on whitening teeth:
Should l let my teen bleach their teeth? [Video]
Benefits of Tooth Whitening [Video]
Did you know Dr. Bis has helped patients in Oakville and the surrounding area with their smiles using restorative, cosmetic, or holistic techniques since 1996?