Teeth whitening is more popular than ever these days. But what about the side effects and potential dangers of tooth whitening?
Is Whitening Teeth Safe?
Kits containing bleaching agents, such as hydrogen peroxide, use such small amounts that the risks involved are rather low.
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Only dentists use solutions based on hydrogen peroxide, which can damage teeth and require certain safety measures.
These products cannot be sold to the general public, nor used in over-the-counter whitening kits.
Even so, imported unregulated laundry kits often contain concentrated solutions, so it's best to make sure that the kit you buy has been produced in the United States and meets standards.
If you are unsure whether your purchase is compliant with standards, do not use it.
If you have used it before and have symptoms ranging from pain to a burning sensation, see your dentist or GP immediately, and never use this whitening treatment again.
Is it safe to have your teeth whitened by a professional?
Since dentists use a highly concentrated form of hydrogen peroxide, the risks are higher; however, the product is used in a controlled environment.
Thus, the dentist inserts a jugal retractor into the mouth to ensure that the gums are completely covered, and that the whitening agents do not come into contact with the gums or the lips.
The higher the doses of this whitening agent, the greater the risk of side effects (see below), but the procedure itself is still safe.
However, it should be performed by a professional dentist and not in a beauty salon
Many beauty salons offer this service, but lack of dental experience and lack of proper equipment can expose you to unsafe practices.
In the UK, a similar story led to a series of lawsuits against a salon that offered a bleaching service under questionable conditions and with high doses of bleaching agents.
There is not yet a regulatory framework on this subject in many countries, which means that it is the consumer's responsibility to make the right choice.
Side effects of bleaching
However, some sensitivity in the teeth is quite common in these cases. Even several hours or several days after the treatment, your teeth may be significantly more sensitive to heat and cold.
Consuming frozen drinks or simply breathing a breath of fresh air can cause tingling or tingling sensations.
If your teeth are still so sensitive after several days or you are worried about this, talk to your dentist.
Your oral and dental health comes before the whiteness of your teeth, don't forget that.