Is it harmful to my teeth to get them whitened?

Worried about harming your teeth when whitening them? A white smile is often a confidence booster if you’re looking to stand out and make a positive impression. When done by a dental professional, whitening procedures do not harm your teeth. The whitening agent in professional products remove stains on the teeth!

Professionally Applied

  • The results of professionally applied teeth whitening by a dentist are usually instant, visible and long-lasting.
  • Professionally applied whitening is safe, effective, and only requires one trip to the dentist. Teeth whitening visits typically last an hour.
  • In-office whitening offered by dentists takes place under controlled conditions. When done by a dental professional whitening procedures are not harmful your teeth.

Dentist Dispensed

  • Your dentist can also provide customized whitening trays you can take home with you. The trays are molded to fit your teeth exactly, and can be ready in just 1 or 2 days after your dental visit.
  • With only a few hours of wear per day, the special bleaching agent bubbles stains right out of your enamel in a very short time without altering tooth structure or existing dental work in any way.

When your teeth reach the desired brightness, only occasional treatment is needed to maintain your new smile.

Over The Counter

Although over-the-counter treatments are less expensive, they may require a longer treatment period, and the risks of gum irritation or damage to previous dental work are increased.

  • The American Dental Association recommends that if you choose to use a bleaching product at home, you should only do so after consultation with a dentist. This is especially important for patients with many fillings, crowns, and extremely dark stains.
  • It can be harmful to get your teeth whitened if not done under a medical guidance. If you want quicker, safer, and more reliable results, you should ask your dentist about in-office whitening or laser whitening.

Risks associated with tooth whitening include tooth sensitivity and damage to the roots of teeth. Dentists may be able to predict if you will have problems with or sensitivities to the procedure.

Is bleaching a good option for you?

You should discuss whitening with your dentist prior to doing any procedures.  Dr. Elbrecht frequently discusses this topic with patients and he would be happy to let you know if he thinks you are a good candidate for whitening.

Request an appointment online, or call (765) 622-7000 to speak to a member of the dental team!

Photo by Autumn Goodman on Unsplash