Are There Side Effects of Tooth Whitening?

In-office cosmetic teeth whitening is gaining popularity for people who want a brighter, whiter smile. There are many options available for whitening your smile, from toothpaste and over-the-counter products to professional tooth whitening procedures. Many people have no side effects from teeth whitening procedures, but there are some who do suffer some side effects.

Common Side Effects

The most common side effect of teeth whitening is increase tooth sensitivity. This sensitivity can occur when teeth are exposed to hot or cold foods and beverages or even the air. Typically this sensitivity is minor and will not last longer than a few days.

Another side effect from tooth whitening is damage to the tooth enamel. People who use too much bleaching agent can permanently damage their tooth enamel. This can also happen to people who undergo teeth whitening procedures or use at-home kits more often than needed. It is important that you carefully follow the instructions and usage guidelines if you are going to use an at-home bleaching kit.

Some people who have used teeth whitening kits or had a procedure done may suffer from gum irritation or irritation of other soft tissue in the mouth. This irritation occurs due to prolonged exposure to the bleaching agents used in tooth whitening.

Another side effect of tooth whitening, though not as common as the others, is nausea or upset stomach. This happens to people who use the at-home whitening kits, which do not have as many safeguard to prevent ingestion of the bleaching gel.

Who will experience side effects?

Not everyone will experience side effects from teeth whitening products or procedures. There are some common characteristics of people who are more likely to develop tooth or mouth sensitivity after using a bleaching product. Some of these characteristics include:

· People who already experience sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages. Teeth whitening procedures may only exacerbate the sensitivity.

· People who partake in daily consumption of fruit juice or citrus fruits.

· People who drink carbonated beverages daily.

· People who suffer from tooth sensitivity after their standard dental cleanings.