A bright, white smile is something many people strive for, and teeth whitening treatments are one of the most popular ways to achieve that goal.
However, while the promise of a whiter smile is enticing, it’s important to understand that teeth whitening comes with potential risks.
Whether you’re considering an over-the-counter kit or professional treatment, being aware of these risks will help you make an informed decision and protect your oral health.
Tooth sensitivity
One of the most common side effects of teeth whitening treatments is tooth sensitivity. After a whitening session, you might notice a sharp or tingling sensation when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods.
This occurs because the bleaching agents used in whitening products can temporarily make your enamel more porous, exposing the dentin beneath, which houses sensitive nerves.
How to manage it:
If you experience sensitivity after a whitening treatment, using toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth can help alleviate discomfort. It’s also worth discussing with your dentist whether a lower concentration of bleaching agent can be used in future treatments to reduce the risk of sensitivity.
Gum irritation
Gum irritation is another potential risk, particularly if the whitening agent comes into contact with your gums during the treatment.
This is more likely to occur with over-the-counter whitening kits, where the fit of trays or strips might not be precise. Poorly fitting trays can allow the bleaching gel to spread onto your gums, causing redness, irritation, or even a burning sensation.
How to manage it:
If you’re using an at-home kit, be careful when applying the whitening gel and make sure it stays on your teeth, not your gums. If you do experience irritation, rinsing your mouth with water or using a soothing mouthwash can help.
Enamel damage
While teeth whitening treatment is generally safe when used correctly, excessive or improper use can damage your enamel.
Overusing whitening products or applying stronger-than-recommended bleaching agents can wear down the enamel, which weakens the structure of your teeth and makes them more susceptible to decay and sensitivity.
How to manage it:
To protect your enamel, always follow the instructions provided with whitening products, and avoid using them more frequently than recommended. If you’re unsure, consult your dentist before beginning any treatment.
Uneven results
Another potential risk with at-home whitening kits is uneven results. This can happen when the whitening agent doesn’t cover all areas of your teeth equally, especially if trays or strips don’t fit well.
Stains may remain in certain areas, leading to an uneven appearance. Similarly, teeth with different shades due to previous dental work may not respond to whitening agents in the same way, creating a patchy look.
How to manage it:
For more consistent results, professional teeth whitening treatments are recommended. Dentists can customise the treatment to ensure an even application, and they can also advise you on whether certain dental work, such as crowns or veneers, will need to be treated differently.
Concluding remarks
Teeth whitening treatments can be an effective way to brighten your smile, but it’s important to be aware of the risks involved. These potential side effects can be managed with the right precautions.
Always follow product instructions carefully, and for a safer experience, consider consulting a dental professional for a customised whitening treatment.