Teeth whitening has become a common process, especially with affordable tooth whitening products are widely available at drug and grocery stores. With an increasing number of people using these products, it is easy to wonder if the process is safe. Researchers believe that whitening the teeth is remarkably safe, although it can cause some short-term problems.
Some people believe that teeth whitening is harmful because they experience pain after using the products. It is true that the ingredients used to whiten teeth can cause sensitivity in some people, but this does not lead to long-term damage. People who want to whiten their teeth, but who are concerned about tooth pain, may want to take several precautions to make the process more comfortable.
The whitening process can be very aggressive, so users should start with the mildest form of tooth whitening available. If the stains on the teeth are not significant, toothpaste with a whitening ingredient can be used along with specialty mouth rinses. These products have only mild tooth whitening abilities, but may be effective if the teeth are not severely stained.
If a person decides to use a more aggressive whitener, she should begin using toothpaste made for sensitive teeth a week before she starts the whitening process. These toothpastes are very effective at reducing sensitivity in the teeth and can make the tooth whitening experience pain-free. It does take some time to get the best results from this toothpaste, so even if the user doesn't experience completely relief from discomfort immediately, she should continue to use it.
Teeth whitening products are available in both paint-on applications and in trays that the person places in the mouth. The trays typically provide more noticeable results, but may not be the best for some people. Individuals who have sensitive gums or a small mouth may find them uncomfortable. The trays are not custom made for each person's mouth, so they don't fit all people well. The whitening solution can also get onto the gums, which many people find uncomfortable.
Paint-on products often provide less visible results, but the reason for this is often in the application. Because the whitening solution is painted onto the teeth and not held on with a tray, it is easy for it to be diluted by saliva or inadvertently swallowed. While this is not harmful, it can reduce the effectiveness of the product.
Regardless of the type of teeth whitening products that a person chooses, she can rest assured in knowing that they are generally harmless. Any pain experienced from the procedure is temporary, and it will not result in lasting harm. Although the process is harmless, most dental professionals recommend that people only do it once or twice a year.