Dental Whitening - Enhance Your Smile with Few Side Effects
Your teeth are meant to be bright and beautiful, but lifestyle habits and even normal aging can result in yellow teeth that take the sparkle out of your smile. Fortunately, many over-the-counter and professional treatments are available to lighten stains and restore your self-confidence. Some rely on polishing agents or mild abrasives, but most use peroxide-based bleaching agents. At-home dental whitening kits can produce results after continued use for a month. Some in-office professional treatments work in only one visit. Before you buy a product or schedule an appointment with your dentist, make sure you are aware of potential side effects.
Side Effects Associated with Home and Dentist Teeth Whitening Systems
At-home tooth bleaching products have a safe track record, and only two side effects are generally 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 Product 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 whitening kits because the organization believes 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 Pennsylvania about your dental whitening options.
To get the dental care you deserve from an affordable dentist in Pennsylvania, make an appointment.
Gentle Dental of Pennsylvania offers affordable family dentistry and gentle, compassionate dental care in Pennsylvania. With 6 affiliated practices throughout Pennsylvania, our offices are conveniently located with extended hours to meet your needs. At Gentle Dental of Pennsylvania, we provide most dental services, from basic preventative care and general dentistry to specialized procedures and complete dental reconstruction. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Patient satisfaction is our top priority and we strive to provide the exceptional, affordable dental care and personal touch that lead to lasting relationships. A smiling patient is our greatest reward and we look forward to keeping those smiles healthy, beautiful, and bright. Discover an affordable dentist who truly cares at Gentle Dental of Pennsylvania.
