Stay Safe When Whitening Your Teeth

Posted on 8/1/2024 by Madison Family Dental

Close up comparison of before and after teeth whitening treatment on a man's smile

Your smile is one of your most important assets. It can boost your confidence, make a good first impression, and even improve your mood. If you're unhappy with the color of your teeth, teeth whitening might be the answer you're looking for. This popular cosmetic dentistry procedure can brighten your smile and give you a more youthful appearance.

But before you jump into teeth whitening, it's important to understand the risks involved and how to do it safely.

What is Teeth Whitening?

Teeth whitening is a process that uses bleaching agents to remove stains and discoloration from your teeth. This can be done in-office at a dental clinic or at home using over-the-counter products.

There are two main types of teeth whitening:

•	Professional Teeth Whitening: This type of whitening is done by a dentist in a dental office. The dentist will use a stronger bleaching agent than what is available over-the-counter. This results in faster and more dramatic results.
•	Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening: This type of whitening uses products that are available without a prescription. These products typically contain lower concentrations of bleaching agents than professional whitening products. Over-the-counter whitening takes longer to see results and may not be as effective as professional whitening.

Is Teeth Whitening Safe?

Teeth whitening is generally considered safe when done correctly. However, there are some potential risks involved, including:

•	Tooth Sensitivity: The bleaching agents used in teeth whitening can make your teeth more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures. This sensitivity is usually temporary and goes away after a few days.
•	Gum Irritation: The bleaching agents can also irritate your gums. This irritation is also usually temporary and goes away after a few days.
•	Tooth Damage: If you overuse teeth whitening products or use them incorrectly, you can damage your teeth. This damage can include enamel erosion, tooth decay, and even tooth loss.

How to Whiten Your Teeth Safely

If you're considering teeth whitening, it's important to talk to your dentist first. They can help you determine if teeth whitening is right for you and recommend the best method for your individual needs.

Here are some tips for safe teeth whitening:

•	Only use products that are approved by the American Dental Association (ADA).
•	Follow the instructions on the product label carefully.
•	Do not overuse teeth whitening products.
•	See your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.

Conclusion

Teeth whitening can be a safe and effective way to improve your smile. However, it's important to be aware of the risks involved and to do it safely. By following the tips above, you can whiten your teeth safely and achieve a brighter, more confident smile.

Additional Information

If you have any questions about teeth whitening, please talk to your dentist. They can provide you with more information and help you make the best decision for your individual needs.

Madison:

5709 Odana Road,
Madison, WI 53719

608-274-5970

Hours

Mon - Thurs: 7 am - 6 pm
Friday: 7 am - 2 pm

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502 Nelson Court,
DeForest, WI 53532

608-846-3302

Hours

Monday: 8 am - 5 pm
Tuesday: 7 am - 4 pm
Wednesday: 8 am - 5 pm
Thursday: 8 am - 5 pm
Friday: Closed

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Madison Family Dental Associates, 5709 Odana Rd., Madison, WI 53719 • 608-274-5970 • madisonfamilydental.com • 12/13/2024 • Tags: dentist Madison WI •