Teeth Whitening

Pros and cons of whitening your teeth

Teeth whitening products have been on the market for years but are now enjoying a resurgence of popularity. Manufacturers have increased their advertising efforts to bring whitening products to the forefront again. The most common over-the-counter teeth whiteners are strips, gels and toothpastes.

Can anyone use these products?

Certain people should not use teeth whitening products, including those under the age of 16 and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Whitening agents may aggravate sensitive teeth, so consult your dentist before using these products. Most teeth whitening gels include peroxide, so proceed with caution if you have any allergies. Avoid whiteners if you have any active dental problems that increase the sensitivity of your teeth. Gum disease, open cavities, exposed roots and worn spots of enamel should all be remedied before you use any teeth whitening products.

Not a Cure-All

When choosing a teeth whitening gel, be sure to keep your expectations realistic. If you drink coffee or smoke cigarettes, your teeth will probably still have a yellow tint to them. Over-the-counter whitening products can improve this somewhat, but you may need to invest in professional teeth whitening to remove the stains completely. Veneers or dental bonding are other options for people with very heavily stained teeth. Also, if you have porcelain fillings, these will not whiten. This may leave an uneven color if the rest of the teeth are whitened. Ask your dentist about your options in this case. It may be possible to switch out the tooth-colored filling for a brighter shade.

Even for people with healthy gums and teeth, whitening products can cause temporary irritation and sensitivity. These side effects usually are only a problem in the first few days after application of the whitener. Visit your dentist immediately if these symptoms persist for a significant length of time.

Products

There are a number of over-the-counter teeth whitening products to choose from, so be sure to shop around before buying. Look for one that includes a mouthpiece that you can customize. Each person’s mouth is shaped differently, so you don’t want to cram your teeth into a one-size-fits-all mouthpiece. The best way to find out what works is to ask family and friends for recommendations. Your dentist should also be able to tell you which teeth whitening gel is best. Stop using any teeth whitener immediately if you experience an increase in gum or tooth sensitivity or a prolonged change in the color of your gums.