Whitening your teeth is one of the quickest and easiest ways to improve your smile. It is also one of the most common cosmetic dentistry procedures. There are many teeth whitening products available in stores, online, and from your dentist’s office.
With so many different and easily accessible ways to whiten your teeth, one question often arises: can you whiten your teeth too much? Learn the risks associated with teeth whitening treatments and how to use them safely and effectively.
Types of Teeth Whitening Treatment
There are many different types of teeth whitening treatments:
Over the counter teeth whitening:
- Toothpaste. There are many whitening toothpastes that you can purchase in the store. In fact, it's hard to find a tube of toothpaste that doesn’t include whitening ingredients. These provide minimal results, but you may find your teeth slightly whiter than before.
- Mouthwash. Some mouthwashes contain a whitening ingredient. When combined with whitening toothpaste, you may find that you get better results.
- Wands. Whitening wands include a whitening gel that you apply to your teeth with a wand or brush. These may be slightly more effective than toothpaste and mouthwash.
- Strips. Whitening strips are clear plastic strips you apply to your teeth that contain a whitening agent. They are the most effective over the counter product, but still don’t provide results that compare to professional treatments.
Professional teeth whitening:
- In-office. Professional whitening treatment is applied in the dentist’s office. In just one treatment you will have dramatically whiter teeth.
- At-home. Professional whitening treatments also come in a version you can take home and use daily for a few weeks. You’ll achieve similar results to in-office treatment, the process just takes a little longer.
Benefits of Professional Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening treatments have many benefits over store products, such as:
- Safe. The ingredients in professional whitening treatments are strong but safe. They won’t damage your tooth enamel in any way.
- Natural look. Your dentist can control the amount of whitening treatment applied so that your teeth look brighter but still natural. At-home whitening works gradually, allowing you to stop whitening when you have achieved your desired results.
- Fast results. Professional whitening treatments contain active ingredients that work quickly to give you a whiter smile in a single in-office treatment or as little as 2 weeks at home.
Risks of Too Much Teeth Whitening
There are some risks associated with whitening your teeth too much:
- Unnatural look. If your teeth are too white they may look fake. Too much whitening can also make your teeth look translucent rather than white, which also gives them an unnatural appearance.
- Damage to your enamel. Most whitening products contain either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, both of which are highly acidic and will eventually erode your tooth enamel when used too frequently. This leaves your teeth weak and prone to decay or breakage.
- Soft tissue irritation. The acidity of the whitening agents can also cause irritation to your gums and the other soft tissues of your mouth.
- Sensitive teeth. Over-whitening can cause your teeth to become sensitive to cold, heat, and sugar which can limit your eating and drinking capabilities.
How Can I Be Sure I Am Whitening Safely?
The best way to safely whiten your teeth is to do it under the supervision of your dentist using professional products. Follow your dentist’s instructions for at-home treatment and avoid overuse of the products.
Golia Dental Provides Safe and Effective Teeth Whitening
If you’re looking for a safe way to whiten your smile, Golia Dental provides professional whitening treatment that is gentle and effective. We provide both in-office and at-home treatment for your convenience.
To learn more call 203-248-7400 or contact us today to schedule an appointment.