A clean, white smile speaks volumes. We all want to have whiter teeth, and new advances offer safe whitening options at home, and at the dentist’s office.
Since about 1989, professional and home teeth whitening methods have increased in popularity. Medical and consumer health awareness groups have paid much attention to the safety and effectiveness of whitening products. These processes have received generally positive reports in both areas of effectiveness and consumer safety.
It’s important to consider several elements when considering teeth whitening processes. Remember the following points:
Concerns about the risks of bleaching agents have been raised in both medical and consumer communities. Some believe that these bleaching processes may cause certain cancers.
On the other hand, studies have demonstrated that the concentration of carbamide peroxide in teeth whitening is no believed to cause cancers of the gums or mouth tissue. There is a natural agent present in human saliva that seems to offset the amount of peroxide given off by the teeth whitening agents.
Consideration and attention has also been given to the fear of bleaching agents causing a tooth’s enamel to wear off or be damaged. After careful study, the medical experts now say that more damage is done to a tooth’s enamel by soft drinks or fruit juices than tooth whitening bleach.
The issue of nerve endings being affected by teeth whitening is still in its early stages since this can be studied only in longer intervals such as five to eight years after the teeth whitening procedure. Despite this concern there is still little damage being shown to teeth that have undergone whitening and been in for a five to eight year checkup after the process.
If you have existing caps or crowns, you are not able to undergo teeth whitening processes. You may have the procedure done if you have had a root canal and if you have simple fillings. Dental histories have not indicated any problems from this procedure but, again, these studies are still in their infancy.
Even though the studies mentioned are valid and accurate, it is always best to consult with your dental health professional to decide your best course of action.
Every person’s dental history is unique, meaning that just because studies have supported teeth whitening in certain situations it may still be risky for you! Don’t take too much risk merely for appearance’s sake.
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