What is Teeth Whitening and Is It Healthy for Your Oral Health?
A bright and white smile is a characteristic that is mostly linked with confidence and good hygiene. In due time, food, drinks, aging, and lifestyle habits can result in the staining or discoloration of teeth. It is in this case that teeth whitening comes in. But what is teeth whitening, and is it even healthy for your teeth?
Let’s explore.
What Is Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental treatment that can be taken to lighten the natural color of your teeth by removing stains and discoloration. It does not alter the natural shape of teeth but improves their appearance.
Whitening treatments are typically divided into three types:
- In-Office Whitening of the teeth
This is carried out by a dentist and employs high-level whitening agents (typically hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide) to achieve immediate and conspicuous outcomes. Special lights or lasers can be used in some systems in order to increase the whitening effect.
- At-Home Professional Kits
Dentists can also offer tailor-made trays and pro-level whitening gel to be used safely at home for a few weeks.
- Over-the-Counter Products
There are a great many toothpastes, gels, and rinses available, as well as whitening strips. The popular whitening products in brands such as Crest and Colgate are characterized by slower results than professional treatments.
What is the mechanism of action of teeth whitening?
The majority of whitening products have bleaching agents that are composed of peroxide. These agents dissolve the stain molecules on the enamel to a smaller and less visible size, and your teeth become whiter.
Two major types of stains are:
- Extrinsic stains – Stains on the surface due to coffee, tea, red wine, tobacco and some food.
- Stains in the tooth- The deeper stains within the tooth due to aging, trauma or medication.
There is generally more effectiveness of professional whitening in both types.
Is oral health good with teeth whitening?
The process of teeth whitening is more cosmetic than a cure for the problem of oral health. Nevertheless, it can be of an indirect advantage.
Potential Benefits:
Better Confidence: The whiter the smile, the better the self-esteem.
Better Oral Hygiene Motivation: An individual usually takes more care of their teeth when they are whitened.
Stain Removal: Whitening should be performed on a clean mouth, and the plaque and tartar should be removed by professional cleaning.
Important Considerations:
Whitening does not:
- Treat cavities
- Remove plaque permanently
- Cure gum disease
- Strengthen enamel
In case of dental issues like tooth decay or gingivitis, it should be sorted out before whitening.
Is Teeth Whitening Safe?
Whitening of teeth is considered to be safe when done properly. According to the American Dental Association, dentist-monitored whitening is safe and effective in the vast majority of adults.
Nevertheless, temporary side effects can be experienced:
- Tooth sensitivity
- Gum irritation
- Mild discomfort
All these effects normally disappear after a few days.
Whitening should not be suggested in the case of:
- Breastfeeding women or pregnant women.
- Children under 16
- Individuals with profound erosion of the enamel.
- Patients with untreated cavities or gum disease.
- One should never attempt treatment without consulting a dentist.
How to keep Teeth White
Once it is whitened, it is imperative to sustain the outcomes:
- Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily
- Limit the coffee, tea, and red wine.
- Quit smoking
- Make regular dental appointments.
Conclusion
Teeth whitening is a safe and effective cosmetic procedure that improves the attractiveness of your smile. Although it has no direct effect on oral health, it may promote the use of dental care practices and confidence.
To achieve optimal outcomes and safety, it is advisable to consult your dentist to know the whitening product that suits you best. Nevertheless, a healthy smile does not merely mean that it is bright; it means that the teeth are healthy, and the gums are healthy as well.