Is It Safe to Whiten Teeth at Home?
Teeth whitening is the most popular cosmetic dentistry treatment in Australia, which can cover up stains and brighten teeth by several shades. These treatments can be provided at a dental clinic or in the comfort of your home.
If you prefer a home whitening treatment, it’s still important to see your dentist first, so they can provide a tailored treatment kit and instruct you on how to use it properly. Using over-the-counter products without guidance from your dentist can be less effective, as well as increasing the risks.
How does home teeth whitening work?
Teeth whitening uses gels with bleaching agents that are applied to the surfaces of teeth. These agents react with stains and discolouration in the dentine beneath the enamel, with the result of making teeth appear brighter.
In-chair whitening at a dental clinic may be completed in a single visit, as dentists are permitted to use stronger bleaching agents that are activated by a laser light for instant results. At-home teeth whitening takes longer, but you could see similar results in 2 to 4 weeks.
If you decide that home whitening is right for you, your dentist will take moulds of your teeth to create custom whitening trays. These fit over the teeth like a mouthguard and should be filled with bleaching gel as instructed by your dentist.
What are the risks?
You should follow your dentist’s instructions precisely when using a teeth whitening kit at home, otherwise you can risk damage to your teeth and gums, as well as a disappointing treatment outcome.
If bleaching gel overflows or spills out of the tray, it could come into contact with your gums or other soft tissues in your mouth. This could cause painful chemical burns or even discolouration.
Wearing the trays for longer than recommended or using a higher concentration of whitening gel could make your teeth feel more sensitive or damage the enamel, as well as producing uneven results.
How can I lower the risks?
Teeth whitening risks are minimised if the treatment is provided by a dentist or following their instructions. If you have sensitive teeth, your dentist could provide a tailored treatment kit, recommend products to reduce discomfort, or discuss alternative treatments.
It’s important to have an oral health assessment before any cosmetic dental treatment begins. Your dentist will check whether you’re suitable for whitening and examine your teeth and gums for signs of any problems that could affect your outcome.
What are my other options?
If you decide that home teeth whitening isn’t for you, your dentist could discuss alternative treatments to help you make the changes you want to your smile. These could include:
- Professional whitening at the dental clinic
- Oral hygiene treatments to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth
- Dental veneers fitted over the front of teeth to change their appearance
- Dental crowns to cover damaged, weakened or misshapen teeth
If you have old fillings or crowns that have become discoloured, these won’t be affected by teeth bleaching treatments. Your dentist could replace them with whiter options that match your new smile.
Find out more about teeth whitening in Mosman
Our dentists at Mosman 3D Dental offer a range of cosmetic treatments to help people achieve the smiles they want. To find out more or arrange a consultation, call us today on (02) 9969 8610 or book online.