Sure is! Provided it’s done under the supervision of a trusted dentist in Piedmont. However, we understand that for cost and convenience issues, there are OTC options that appeal to many people. If you decide to DIY for teeth whitening, it’s wise to only use products that are approved by the American Dental Association (ADA).
Teeth whitening falls under the category of cosmetic dentistry. This is a branch of dentistry that gives you more confidence in your smile through procedures such as teeth whitening, veneers, and dentures.
The teeth whitening market is a huge one, and it’s not looking like it will slow down anytime soon. In fact, the teeth whitening market is expected to reach well past 10.6 billion by 2030, due to a surge in popularity of at-home teeth whitening kits and products, advancements in LED and laser teeth whitening technologies, and an increase in demand for teeth whitening treatments among young adults.
While custom-fitted trays and in-office treatments remain the most effective and safest methods of whitening teeth, there are other convenient and affordable options such as ADA-approved over-the-counter toothpastes, strips, and gels.
Let’s go over the top four ways to whiten your teeth as well as the safety of teeth whitening, particularly when performed under the supervision of a Piedmont dentist.
4 Ways to Whiten Your Teeth
There are several ways to whiten your teeth, from at-home treatments to in-office dental treatments, and as such, there are pros and cons to each option.
1. OTC Whitening Toothpastes & Gels
Simple ways to brighten your smile, whitening toothpastes typically contain abrasives, such as baking soda and silica. These are designed to remove surface stains. But these toothpastes alone can’t make your teeth that many shades whiter; plus, the abrasiveness of the ingredients could lead to tooth sensitivity. Whitening gels contain hydrogen peroxide to break down stains; however, these products can be messy.
2. Whitening Strips
Whitening strips, a convenient and affordable option, contain a coating of a whitening gel that contains peroxide. The strip keeps the gel on the teeth for a certain period of time, such as 15 minutes per treatment time. However, the strips are not customized to your teeth and may fit poorly as a result. They can also irritate your gums, and using them too frequently can lead to increased sensitivity.
3. Custom-Fitted Whitening Trays
A custom-fit at-home whitening tray is only provided by your dentist, and is created from a mold of your teeth. Just fill the trays with whitening gel and wear them for a recommended amount of time daily. You can repeat the process until you achieve the desired shade of white, with results typically noticed in a matter of weeks.
These trays will contain a higher-strength whitening agent compared to what you would get over the counter, as it’s your dentist who is recommending this at-home treatment.
4. In-Office Blue Whitening Treatment
Performed right in the office under the supervision of a dentist, these professional treatments typically utilize a blue LED light, representing the safest and most effective way to whiten your teeth. During your whitening session, the dentist will place gel on your teeth containing a high amount of peroxide. The gel will then be activated by a blue LED light that is directed on your teeth for up to 20 minutes.
More light is directed at the teeth and another layer of gel is added after that, for an additional 20 minutes. You can repeat this process until you have reached your desired level of whiteness.
Who Shouldn’t Have Their Teeth Whitened?
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not get their teeth whitened because they are more likely to experience inflamed gums and sensitivity after teeth whitening due to hormonal changes as part of pregnancy. There’s simply not a lot of data out there on the safety of teeth whitening for this demographic, so it’s best to refrain from this process until you have your baby or your baby is done breast feeding.
Children under the age of 16 should also not use teeth whiteners unless under the supervision of their dentist. This ensures safe and effective whitening.
Others who should refrain from the use of teeth-whitening products include people with:
- Gum disease
- Sensitive teeth or gums
- Cavities or other dental problems
These people often have increased sensitivity or experience adverse effects when utilizing a teeth-whitening product. If you are in this group, it’s always best to ask your dentist for further guidance.
A Look at the Safety of Teeth Whitening
When choosing an OTC teeth whitening product, look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance, which specifies that it’s safe and effective. Teeth whitening is considered safe if done by a dental professional or through the use of at-home products approved by the American Dental Association (ADA).
Teeth whitening can come with potential side effects, as does any cosmetic procedure. Sure, OTC treatments are convenient and affordable, but they do come with a risk. Teeth-whitening products break down stains to make your teeth appear brighter and whiter, but if you misuse or overuse them, you can experience gum irritation, sensitivity, and other side effects.
Book Your Teeth Whitening Appointment With Piedmont Oaks Dental
To book an appointment for teeth whitening in Piedmont, call us at (510) 654-6523. We are located at 1345 Grand Ave. Suite 103 in Piedmont, CA, with convenient hours to fit your busy lifestyle. We would be happy to review the teeth whitening procedure that is the best option for you.