Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure that uses chemicals to remove stains and make teeth whiter. There are three main types of teeth whitening: professional whitening at the dentist, over-the-counter whitening kits, and whitening treatments at beauty salons.
Professional teeth whitening at the dentist is the safest option. This is because it is performed by a trained dental professional who can assess your teeth and gums for any underlying conditions that could make whitening unsafe. The dentist will also use a professional-strength whitening solution that is more effective than over-the-counter products.
Over-the-counter whitening kits are less safe than professional whitening. This is because they contain lower concentrations of whitening agents, which means that they take longer to work and may not be as effective. Over-the-counter kits also do not come with the same level of supervision as professional whitening, so there is a greater risk of side effects, such as tooth sensitivity.
Whitening treatments at beauty salons are the least safe option. This is because they are often performed by untrained staff who may not be aware of the risks associated with teeth whitening. Beauty salon treatments also tend to use higher concentrations of whitening agents than over-the-counter kits, which can increase the risk of side effects.
Here are some of the specific safety risks associated with each type of teeth whitening:
- Professional teeth whitening: The main risk associated with professional teeth whitening is tooth sensitivity. This is usually temporary and goes away on its own after a few days. In rare cases, professional teeth whitening can cause gum irritation or damage to the tooth enamel.
- Over-the-counter whitening kits: The main risk associated with over-the-counter whitening kits is tooth sensitivity. This is more common than with professional teeth whitening, and it can last for several weeks. Over-the-counter kits can also cause gum irritation, and in rare cases, they can damage the tooth enamel.
- Whitening treatments at beauty salons: The main risk associated with whitening treatments at beauty salons is gum irritation and damage to the tooth enamel. This is because these treatments often use higher concentrations of whitening agents than over-the-counter kits. In rare cases, whitening treatments at beauty salons can cause permanent tooth damage.
If you are considering teeth whitening, it is important to talk to us about the best option for you. Your dentist can assess your teeth and gums for any underlying conditions that could make whitening unsafe, and they can recommend a whitening method that is right for you.
With proper care, teeth whitening can be a safe and effective way to improve the appearance of your smile. If you’re interested in professional teeth whitening in the Melbourne CBD, JD Dental Care will discuss the best options for you.
