Californians love a bright and white smile, and one of the methods to get that is teeth whitening. But here is a big question: can teeth whitening hurt your enamel? Enamel is the protective outer layer of your teeth, which protects against cavities and keeps them strong. If teeth whitening damages your enamel, it could cause sensitivity issues, decay, and other problems.
There are lots of options for teeth whitening. For example, you can buy teeth whitening strips at the store, or you can get professional treatments from dentists. However, not all whitening treatments are safe. Some have strong chemicals that might wear down your enamel if used too much. This can lead to tooth pain and even more cavities.
If you are considering whitening your teeth, it is a good idea to talk to a dentist at a Van Nuys dental clinic first. They can help you pick a safe option that won’t harm your enamel. You want to make sure that your teeth remain protected while you improve their aesthetics.
Can teeth whitening damage your enamel?
When people want a bright smile, they often turn to teeth whitening procedures. However, they forget to consider that these treatments may affect their tooth enamel. The substance in teeth-whitening agents that help whiten your smile is called peroxides, like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These chemicals work by breaking down stains on your teeth.
However, the same chemicals can make your enamel weaker with time. The more products you use on your teeth, the weaker your enamel gets. The risk of damaging enamel increases when whitening products are overused or used incorrectly. It can lead to problems such as tooth sensitivity and tooth erosion.
Moreover, there is a certain technique to apply these whitening agents. If the whitening procedure is not carried out properly, it can cause uneven whitening or irritate your gums. That is why going to the dentist to get advice is the best thing you can do if you want a whiter smile.
Research shows that aggressive whitening treatments can damage enamel. For example, higher levels of bleaching agents can make the surface of your teeth rough and reduce their strength.
How to safely whiten your teeth
Tips for safety
Many people want whiter teeth. However, it is important to protect your oral health while you do so. First of all, it is absolutely crucial to pick products that are FDA-approved and safe. You should consult your dentist and determine if you are a good candidate for teeth whitening before you apply any product.
It is recommended to look for products with lesser amounts of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. Such products do the work without harming your enamel.
Some whitening products also help reduce tooth sensitivity, which can protect your enamel. Instead of whitening your teeth all the time, give your enamel breaks between treatments. This helps your enamel recover from any effects caused by whitening.
Following instructions
Once you have chosen the right product, remember that you still have to follow the instructions on the packaging. Every product tells you how long to use it, how often to use it, and the right method. If you do not follow these instructions, you might hurt your enamel, which can cause tooth sensitivity or even damage.
Consulting with a dentist
If you want an effective and completely safe whitening procedure that does not hurt your enamel, consider seeing a dentist. Dentists are trained to provide these treatments and handle stronger agents with care. They can help you pick out the right shade that does not look odd and provide a quality treatment.
Get a safe and effective whitening treatment!
When you try complicated dental treatments at home, you might hurt your oral health. This can lead to more expensive treatments later. Consult a dentist today!
