Having your teeth bleached and whitened is generally safe. Rarely, people with sensitive gums may have a reaction (similar to an allergic reaction) where their gums become highly irritated. The best way to avoid this is to ensure that the chemical does not come into contact with your gums. The other common side effect from teeth whitening is tooth sensitivity. This is usually only a side effect from initial treatment and should subside once your mouth becomes used to the process. Fortunately, both of these side effects are rare and their effects are temporary and disappear within a few days.
There are some steps you can use to eliminate the irritation or soreness that occurs during treatment. If you are using an over-the-counter bleaching solution, try wearing the tray or strips for a shorter amount of time. You can also discontinue use for a day or two to give your gums and teeth a resting period from the chemical.
If you are using a solution provided by a dentist, he can prescribe a high-fluoride product to use on your teeth prior to the whitening process. Finally, dont use harsh toothpaste products while using teeth whitening products. Use toothpaste that is made for sensitive teeth. These toothpaste products contain potassium nitrate, which helps sooth the nerve endings for your teeth.
Make sure the products you use are approved by the American Dental Society. Unfortunately for OTC products, that means you can only use professional products dispensed by a dentist. No OTC products have been certified by the ADA, so take precaution when using them. This does not mean OTC products are unsafe, but the society believes that these chemicals should only be used and dispensed by professionals. If you decide on using a teeth whitening product, you should always check with your dentist to keep your health safety at a maximum.
