Choosing a Teeth Whitening System – Safety and Side Effects

Smiles are supposed to help you make great first impressions, but yellow teeth can sabotage your efforts. Fortunately, you don’t have to live with tooth discoloration related to age or lifestyle habits. One way to brighten your smile is to invest in either over-the-counter or dentist teeth whitening treatments. A variety of peroxide-based formulas are available for your consideration such as whitening gels, strips or trays, or light-enhanced professional systems that produce fast and dramatic results. Before you decide on a dental whitening treatment, talk to your dentist in Indiana, and be sure you understand your risk of side effects associated with teeth bleaching/whitening.

At-Home and Dentist Teeth Whitening Systems: Side Effects

Home dental whitening products have a safe track record, and generally only two side effects are associated with them. The most common side effect is a temporary increase in tooth sensitivity. People who already have sensitive teeth are more likely to find treatments uncomfortable. Sensitivity usually occurs in the early stages of the bleaching process and disappears within one to three days of stopping treatment. The other side effect is mild irritation of the gums and soft tissues of the mouth; this may be related to a poorly fitting mouthpiece or tray. Like sensitivity, it goes away soon after discontinuing treatment. An advantage of choosing a dentist teeth-whitening treatment is the dentist’s ability to supervise the procedure and reduce the risk of side effects, or prevent them entirely by using protective pastes or rubber shields.

Dental Whitening Products: Safety



Teeth bleaching/whitening systems that have received the seal of acceptance by the American Dental Association (ADA) have met established safety and effectiveness guidelines. Only professional, dentist-applied whitening treatments have received the seal so far. The ADA does not endorse home dental whitening kits because they believe professional consultation should always be sought before performing whitening procedures. Not all manufacturers seek approval from the ADA, so not having the ADA seal of acceptance does not necessarily mean a product is unsafe.

To learn more, talk to your dentist in Indiana about your dental whitening options.

To get the dental care you deserve from an affordable dentist in Indiana, call Wadas Dental today or make an appointment.