Tips for safe tooth whitening

The booming teeth-whitening business has made dazzling smiles within everyone's reach. From DIY strips to in-office treatments, you have a variety of options for polishing up darkened or stained teeth. Fortunately, side effects aren't that common when you use over the counter products, but they may happen. Hence, before beginning a do-it-yourself teeth whitening routine, make sure you know how to keep your teeth safe.

Talk to your dentist:

It is wise to get a mouth exam and professional cleaning before whitening your teeth at home. Your dentist will also check the over-all health of your gums and look for cavities during the examination. Treating any oral problem before the whitening procedure is good for your dental health.

You can also ask your dentist for advice on which over-the-counter treatment to use.

Be wise when shopping

At-home whitening agents contain peroxides in quantities ranging from 10 to 20%.Select a product that has a peroxide level anywhere in the middle of the aforementioned range. If the item doesn’t irritate your mouth but does not offer the shade you want, you can buy a higher level. However, it is best to show the product to your dentist to be on the safer side.

Do as instructed

Do not leave the gels or strips on longer than instructed -- you may end up with sore gums and other oral problems.  Also, few hours after whitening, avoid sports drinks, soda, or other acidic drinks to keep your teeth protected.

Protect sensitive teeth

Teeth have the tendency to become sensitive after undergoing whitening. However, sensitivity may be less if your teeth and gums are healthy. Remember, if whitening treatment aggravates gum irritability, stop the process right away and speak to your doctor.

Ill-fitted gel-filled trays that have to be worn like a mouth guard can also trouble your gums. Hence, be careful of the fitting. 

When to avoid teeth whitening?

Nursing and pregnant women should avoid teeth whitening. Also, patients with composite and porcelain bondings and dental crowns should avoid in-home teeth whitening. It is best to consult a professional to ensure there are no side effects or uneven smiles.

Avoid overdoing it:

How much is too much? If you get good results by following the instructions, a once-a-month session is normally enough. Once your teeth reach the whiteness you like, you will have to repeat the bleaching session twice a year.

There are a variety of teeth whitening products and systems including over-the-counter gels, whitening toothpastes, rinses, trays and strips, available in the market. Teeth whitening is perfect for those who have unrestored, healthy gums and teeth. People with yellow shades of teeth respond well, but this procedure is not advised for everyone. It is best to talk to your dentist before taking any step. It is also recommended to go for in-office treatment under the supervision of a professional rather than using DIY products. This ensures that your oral health remains intact and protected at all times. The best way to find out about professional teeth whitening procedures is to research online.