Is DIY Teeth Whitening Safe?
Whether caused by food and drink, smoking or other causes, discolouration is the most common cosmetic issue Australians have with their teeth. To remedy this, many turn to whitening solutions, but not all products are equally safe or effective.
If you’re considering home teeth whitening, it’s important to understand the possible risks and how to choose reputable treatments. It’s always recommended to talk to a dentist first to find out if your teeth are suitable for whitening or if you could benefit from a different method of covering up stains and discolouration.
Risk of chemical burns
Teeth whitening uses bleaching chemicals to temporarily remove pigments from teeth. If these chemicals are spilled or swallowed, there’s a risk of chemical burns to the soft tissues in the mouth and throat, especially with prolonged exposure or higher concentrations of chemicals.
Home teeth whitening products in Australia are required by law to contain a maximum 6% of hydrogen peroxide or 18% carbamide peroxide to help lower their risks. Higher concentrations may only be used by qualified dental practitioners. However, some products on sale may still contain dangerously high concentrations of chemicals – especially those bought online, which some studies have found to contain up to 300 times the recommended limit.
Risk of permanent damage
Strong bleaching chemicals, other abrasive ingredients or improper use of whitening kits may also cause lasting damage to teeth and gums, including irreversible gum recession, tooth wear and even tooth loss.
Worn teeth can feel more sensitive to temperature and are easier to damage. By showing more of the yellow dentin layer through the enamel, worn teeth can also appear more yellow. If chemicals penetrate deeper into the tooth, it may lose its function and need to be extracted.
Variable results
As well as their safety risks, results from DIY teeth whitening can also vary depending on the product and the individual. Some products may not contain effective whitening agents, or they may whiten teeth unevenly. Even with correct use, not all types of tooth discolouration can be treated with teeth whitening.
Why you should use a home whitening kit from your dentist
Even if you prefer to whiten your teeth at home than to have an in-chair whitening treatment at a dental clinic, dentists can also offer the option of a home whitening kit that’s tailored to your individual needs. This involves taking impressions of your teeth to create custom trays that can give improved results and safety compared to the generic trays in over-the-counter kits.
Your dentist will also give you instructions about how to use the kit safely and effectively, and can answer any questions you have. They will also examine your teeth to determine the type of tooth discolouration you have and whether this is suitable for whitening, or if it may need an alternative treatment such as dental veneers.
Safe teeth whitening in Mosman
If you’re ready to whiten your smile or you want to know more about your options, get in touch with Mosman 3D Dental to book a consultation with our cosmetic dentistry experts. Call us now on (02) 9969 8610 or book online.