As more teeth whitening products are introduced to the market, people are becoming more familiar with the various side effects that come along with them. This has left many people wondering about the safety of teeth whitening, but even though these side effects can cause some discomfort, they are all temporary and non-injurious. Read more below.  

To be effective, whitening products have to penetrate the protective enamel to attack discolorations in the teeth. This “bleaching” process is highly effective against yellow stains.

Contrary to counterarguments, the teeth whitening process has very few side-effects, and none of them are permanent. Following a professional procedure, you may experience sensitivity to hot or cold foods for a few hours, and there may be slight gum inflammation depending on how effectively the dental dam is applied. There are no long-term consequences from these side effects and they can’t instill further harm.

At-home whitening treatments are considered safe as well. Although it’s best to have whitening services done in a dentist office, over-the-counter products can still be somewhat effective. Because the products aren’t custom-fitted to your teeth, there is a larger chance of the bleaching agent irritating the gums; though, as with a professional cleaning, it’s only a short-term side-effect. It’s best to speak with your dentist before trying any at-home products, as they can advise on proper application. In many cases, the agents used in a professional setting also offer more safety and minimize the possibility of side-effects.

If you’re interested in teeth whitening or general dentistry services, turn to the staff at Temiko G. Braswell, DDS, PC in Perry, GA. They offer a variety of treatments and are dedicated to helping patients maintain a healthy smile. Call (478) 988-3200 today to schedule an appointment and visit their website and Facebook to learn more about their services.