4 Things That Can Ruin Home Tooth Whitening

Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry treatments. However, if you are planning to use a home whitening product, you should be aware that if your dental health is not excellent, the procedure may have disappointing results. Below is a list of four dental health issues that can affect the success of your home teeth whitening product.

Plaque

Plaque is a sticky substance which builds up naturally on teeth, which can lead to gum disease and tooth decay. If you have a build up of plaque on your teeth, it can prevent the whitening product from making full contact with the surface of your teeth. This can lead to an uneven tooth colour, as the clean area of the tooth is bleached and while the plaque covered area will remain discoloured. You should have your teeth professionally cleaned by a dentist or hygienist before attempting to use a home tooth whitening kit.

Cavities or Broken Fillings

The bleach solution used to whiten teeth doesn't just irritate the gums. If it comes into contact with the inner structure or nerve of a tooth because of a cavity or broken filling, it can be extremely painful. If you have experienced a toothache or suspect you have a loose or broken filling, you should book an appointment with your dentist before commencing with your home tooth whitening treatment.

Coloured Fillings and Bonded Teeth 

If you have had your teeth restored or repaired using coloured fillings or bonding, you should be aware that these will not be whitened by the bleach. This can result in you having a multicoloured mouth and a strange smile. If you have received either of these treatments, you should consult with your dentist before starting any whitening treatment, as you may have to have them replaced after you have completed the bleaching treatment to ensure that they match.

Inflamed or Infected Gums

Home whitening kits use a bleach solution containing carbamide or hydrogen peroxide. It is inevitable that applying the bleach solution to your teeth will cause some irritation of the surrounding gum tissue. However, if you are already suffering from inflamed or infected gums, the bleach solution could cause severe discomfort and pain. You should ensure that your gums are healthy before attempting to whiten your teeth at home.

If you have any questions or concerns about tooth whitening, you should contact your dentist. They will be able to offer further help and assistance.

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