White teeth are associated with friendlier appearance and give people whom you communicate with a place to focus on. White teeth help minimize the appearance of wrinkles, making people look younger and full of energy. White teeth are associated with health and many seek ways to whiten their teeth.
So, everybody wants the pearly whites they had when they were in their teens. Yet, not everyone should go with teeth bleaching. Some organizations have conducted research on teeth bleaching, comparing systems that use heat and light and such that do not, i.e. they work with hydrogen peroxide only. No difference in the results was discerned except that systems using light are more expensive. Steer clear of UV light tooth bleaching as it can be dangerous to your skin and eyes.
If you are firmly decided on bleaching of the teeth, you should realize that it is not only about getting whiter teeth. There are some possible side effects involved. They include chemical burns as a result of gel bleaching (if the bleaching agent comes into contact with unprotected tissue), adverse effects on sensitive teeth (excruciating pain), and higher sensitivity to hot and cold. If your teeth are sensitive or your gums are sore, this will subside when you discontinue bleaching your teeth. Other possible effects include higher risk of developing tongue cancer, and the risk of over-bleaching, which is prevalent especially with products that change your tooth shade markedly over a very short treatment period, such as one hour.
Another possible side effect is the rebound effect. Research has shown that close to half of the initial color change may be lost in just one week. This happens when a large part of the whitening comes from tooth dehydration (high risk of tooth sensitivity). As the tooth is replenished with water, it reacquires its darker shade.
If your gums are receding or your gums and teeth are sensitive, you should discuss this with your dentist. It you are sensitive or allergic to hydrogen peroxide, you may want to discuss other options with your dentist as well. The tooth's enamel may be damaged by serial bleaching, especially if you opt for a home-use whitening product with acidic content.
Teeth bleaching for children under the age of 16 should not be performed. This is because the nerves of teeth are still developing during this period. The nerves can become more sensitive. Women who are nursing or pregnant should also avoid bleaching.
If you have fillings, porcelain, some kind of ceramics, and/ or gold in your teeth, the bleach will not affect their color, so the uneven appearance will be retained. If you have cements and dental amalgams, they are likely to be affected.
Furthermore, if you have had a root canal done, a good solution is internal bleaching. This treatment involves teeth whitening from the inside of the tooth. The peroxide is sealed within the tooth for several days, working wonders.
Cosmetic Dentists are dental professionals, and this guide is here to help.
