Will Teeth Whitening Damage My Teeth?

Teeth whitening products contain bleaching agents like hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide. The products whiten the teeth, bring back their shine, and transform a person’s smile.

Not all teeth whitening products are alike, though. DIY home whitening kits contain lower amounts of hydrogen peroxide in comparison to products used by the dentist. Kiosks at the mall also offer laser teeth whitening procedures that use whitening trays containing lower concentrations of hydrogen peroxide. When the products are used incorrectly or too frequently they can cause tooth sensitivity and damage to the teeth.

Precautions to Use While Whitening Teeth

If you’re using teeth whitening toothpaste you might have to alternate with regular toothpaste that has no whitening chemical in it. This is because the chemicals present in the toothpaste often react with the gums, causing heightened sensitivity.

If you’re using DIY kits instead, look for products containing less than 6% of hydrogen peroxide. Bleaching trays containing more than this percentage have to be fitted by the dentist. Carbamide peroxide is an active ingredient that breaks down to release hydrogen peroxide. As a general guide, 10% of this active ingredient releases 3.5% of hydrogen peroxide. Make sure you read the labels before self-whitening.

It’s also helpful to discuss at-home teeth whitening kits with the dentist so that you buy a reputable brand with a trusted track record of safety and success. Take a look at Randwick Dental Clinic Whitening Kits that consist of custom-made bleaching trays that can be re-used. Visit our clinic if you need any help using the kit.

What Causes Tooth Discolouration?

Certain underlying medical conditions like pulp necrosis, root resorption and Bruxism are known to cause discolouration to the teeth. The real cause of the discolouration is not treated through teeth whitening procedures. To determine the true cause of stained teeth, the dentist will have to examine the oral cavity, take X-rays, find out your medical history, and determine whether you’re taking medicines that stain the teeth.

Other factors responsible for tooth discolouration include smoking and the consumption of alcohol, highly acidic foods and beverage like tea or coffee.

Damaged Teeth

Bleaching agents present in teeth whitening products are known to cause soft tissue or gum sensitivity. If you are suffering from tooth sensitivity even before undergoing any tooth whitening procedure, you might have to find out if it’s helpful to fix the cause of sensitivity before whitening your teeth.

If you whiten every few weeks, you may also end up damaging the enamel of the teeth. Certain tooth whitening products are quite abrasive, leaving microscopic holes in the surface of your teeth. Your safest bet is to get teeth whitening done professionally.

Experienced cosmetic dentists have performed teeth whitening treatments on hundreds of patients and they understand the importance of using well-fitting trays with the right percentage of the chemical. They also examine your mouth for oral problems like ulcers, inflammation and decay before allowing you to undergo the procedure.