Teeth Whitening Risks

The two main side effects of teeth whitening are a mild irritation to the gums and soft tissues of the mouth, and an increase in tooth sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity is often apparent during the early stages of a bleaching treatment. Tissue irritation usually happens when a mouthpiece or tray doesn’t fit properly, and isn’t usually down to the bleach itself. The good news is that both of these side effects are temporary and will go away within 1 to 3 days of finishing the treatment.

If you experience sensitivity, here are some thing you can do to minimize it:

Stop whitening your teeth for a few days to help give them time to adjust.

Wear your whitening tray for a shorter period of time, such as splitting a 60 minute session into two 30 minute sessions.

Brush your teeth with toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth. The potassium nitrate in these toothpastes help to soothe the nerve endings.

Ask your dentist for a product containing high levels of fluoride, which can help to remineralize your teeth. Apply this product into your whitening tray and wear it for around four minutes before you use the whitening gel.

Product Safety

Some tooth whitening products, and products used within the dental office, have been given the ADA Seal of Acceptance. This means that the product has met the ADA guidelines and is both safe and effective. Only home use products from the dentist containing 10% carbamide peroxide are currently given the ADA Seal of Acceptance, as well as in-office products containing 35% hydrogen peroxide.

No over-the-counter options have currently received this Seal of Acceptance. These products are not approved by the ADA due to the fact that they believe consultation with a professional is the best way to achieve the desired results. Other products not receiving the ADA seal include laser products. A number of toothpastes have received the ADA Seal of Acceptance, and a list can be seen at www.ada.org

It is important to note that not all manufacturers aim for the ADA Seal of Acceptance. The program is voluntary and requires expense on behalf of the manufacturer. Therefore, if a product doesn’t come with the ADA Seal of Acceptance, it doesn’t mean that the product is not effective and safe to use.

However, those that do carry the seal have met the standards for effectiveness as long as the instructions are followed carefully.