Teeth whitening results have swayed more patients into trying the treatment than doubt it. It’s probably hard to resist an offer of a celebrity smile that’s instant and affordable. Fortunately, most patients are quite satisfied with the methods and their outcome. There are few harmless side effects like sensitivity but generally, everyone goes home with a happy grin.
If you’re feeling like getting in with the trend, you need to understand some precautions on this procedure. Although over-the-counter dental whitening products are available, it’s best to consult your dentist first. Laser teeth whitening is not the safest option too if you’re really considering this treatment. What you really need to know is that teeth bleaching might not be suitable for you.
Don’t try teeth whitening for these reasons
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Teeth with cavities
Don’t risk yourself and force to have the teeth whitening process if you have cavities. If you don’t know it yet, this is the reason why your dentist needs to assess your teeth first. He should check if you have healthy teeth and gums before going for teeth whitening.
The threat lies in the bleaching product itself — hydrogen peroxide. This whitening agent can easily penetrate a decayed tooth and harm the inner tissues leading to sensitivity or dental pain. So, avoid the treatment first if you still have untreated cavities.
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Crowns and other restorations
Dental crowns, veneers, bonding, and fillings are just a few of the restoration methods in dentistry that uses special materials. These materials such as porcelain and ceramic are less porous so typically teeth whitening won’t work on them. If you have a restoration in your front teeth, that would stand out if the existing teeth become brighter. Instead of giving you an even and white set of teeth to be proud of, it would be the opposite.
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Sensitive teeth
Patients with dental hypersensitivity and allergy certainly shouldn’t opt for laser teeth whitening. It could be dangerous to your oral health if you continue on this procedure. Although peroxide is a weak form of acid, it could already be harmful to patients with sensitive teeth and gums. You have to ask your dentist about safer alternatives to brighten your teeth.
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Gum disease
Gum disease is an oral infection with symptoms of inflammation and receding gums. This kind of condition should not be worse with treatments such as teeth whitening. In the same way as with sensitive teeth, bleaching will make your gums and teeth more sensitive and quite painful.
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Pregnant
There hasn’t been much scientific proof that teeth bleaching have a direct effect on the fetus or the carrying mother. However, what experts are taking into consideration is the fact that pregnant women are more sensitive at this stage. Sensitive teeth and gums will react badly to this kind of treatments.
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Teens
Kids below 16 years of age aren’t good candidates for dental whitening as their teeth are still developing. Actually, their tooth pulp, which is found inside a tooth, is still enlarged and bleaching agents could disrupt its growth. It could also cause sensitivity and possible infection.
Although there are limits, however, you have plenty of better options. Have your consultation on teeth whitening in Mississauga to finally achieve those perfect white teeth.
