Everyone craves for that nice white smile that takes everyone’s breath away. Thanks to the growing teeth-whitening business, you can do just that. There are over-the-counter whitening strips and even treatments that are done in a dental office, so there is virtually no reason to put up with yellow or darkening teeth.
However, side effects are not common when using these types of products as they are prescribed on the box. Although, they can occur, so before you get all ready to use them, you should keep these teeth whitening safety tips in mind to keep your gums and mouth healthy.
Dentist First
If you haven’t been to the dentist in a while, it is best to get a professional mouth exam and cleaning. This should be your top priority before you start putting teeth whitening products in your mouth. Sometimes all you really need is a thorough teeth cleaning to restore the sparkle in your teeth.
The exam is there to find any cavities you may have. You may not know you have cavities in your mouth. It will be vital that you get your cavities filled and treated before you even think about putting any teeth whitening product in your mouth.
While your dentist is going through the exam, he or she will check to see if your gums are healthy or not. If your gums are inflamed, red, or swollen, it is best to wait on teeth whitening.
Now, the best piece of advice will always come straight from your dentist. If you are unsure about what teeth whitening product will work for you, talk to them. They will be able to recommend a great over-the-counter product.
Shop Wisely
Most all at-home teeth whitening products are mixed with peroxides, usually carbamide peroxide, to be exact. However, the only difference from whitening product to whitening product is their concentration level. They usually stay between a 10 to 20 percent level.
Choosing a product with a middle of the road bleaching agent will be the best solution for you. However, if you can put up with it, and you are not getting the results you want, you can opt into choosing a teeth whitening product that has a higher concentration.
You may even see the ADA Seal of Acceptance on some products. Now, those are the best ones to get. Your dentist will more than likely recommend those.
Follow Directions
Leaving the gel or strips on your teeth longer than recommended can and will irritate your gums. In this case, more is not better. More will lead to you having problems with your teeth and gums.
For example, many products will say you can use them up to 30 minutes a day for two weeks. If you decide to increase the amount of time you are increasing your chances of gum inflammation and some oral issues later in life.
After every whitening session, it is vital that you avoid acidic beverages for a couple of hours. If you do not, again, this can cause some problems for you.
Be Realistic
If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant in the near future, please do not use any teeth whitening products. This also goes for the mothers who are nursing their children too.
If you have composite and porcelain crowns, I am sorry to say, they will not whiten. If you have crowns that are visible when you smile, these products may result in an uneven color appearance.
Sensitive Teeth
Side effects from teeth whitening products are temporary and mild tooth sensitivity. If at any time an inflammation or even sensitivity starts to bother you, please stop treatment and go to your dentist.
If the trays and strips do not fit well, they will irritate your gums. If you notice that your gums are getting irritated, again, stop all treatment. On the other hand, if your gums are healthy and in good shape, sensitivity will be less to nothing as an issue for you.
Don’t Become an Addict
Again, do not overdo it. Yes, teeth whitening can be addicting because you want nice white teeth. However, the more you do it the worse you will ruin your teeth and gums. It is actually great if you teeth whiten here and there.
Now you know all the safety precautions you should take before you start your teeth whitening adventure. If at any time your mouth does not feel right, please see your dentist as soon as possible. Remember, more is not always better.