Drinking coffee, smoking, and the simple wear of time can darken and stain teeth over time. While this process is natural and often free of harm, it can become a source of worry and uncertainty about the appearance of your smile, which is why many patients seek Tremont dental care in IL for whitening solutions.
Many whitening options are available today: in-office treatments, OTC products, and whitening toothpaste. However, constant use of whitening products can harm your smile over time.
How Does Whitening Toothpaste Work?
Whitening toothpaste is one of the most popular methods for brightening up your smile.
The best whitening toothpaste contains ingredients like hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide. This solution penetrates enamel (the outermost layer of teeth) and slowly dissolves the tannins that cause stains.
However, due to its abrasive nature, overusing whitening toothpaste can lead to issues such as:
Irritation of Gums and Teeth
Overusing whiteners can irritate the gums, a condition known as gingival irritation. In the long run, this can cause the gums to recede, fostering dental sensitivity.
In some cases, patients have developed mucosal irritation (irritation of the mucous membranes in the mouth) and circumoral dermatitis (inflammation of the skin surrounding the mouth) after using whitening toothpaste.
Furthermore, the peroxide content in bleaching gels for whitening trays can cause burns and ulcers on the gum tissues.
Tooth Enamel Damage
Too much use of whitening toothpaste can eventually erode tooth enamel. According to research, whitening toothpaste can reduce the enamel's mineral content, leading to low tooth hardness and rough tooth surfaces. In just one week, whitening toothpaste containing abrasives may also cause teeth roughness and hardness issues.
Using a toothbrush with extremely hard bristles or brushing too vigorously can worsen possible enamel damage. Make sure you choose a toothbrush with the right bristle hardness and apply the right amount of pressure when brushing.
How Can I Safely Whiten My Teeth?
Whitening toothpaste is generally safe to use, but its abrasive nature can cause enamel wear over time. It’s important to use whitening products as the label indicates—for example, once or twice daily for six weeks.
In-office treatments are a better choice if you’re looking for an alternative whitening solution. Besides offering more noticeable results, a certified dentist will ensure your smile is protected every step of the way.
The best part? The results of professional whitening last longer, so it's less necessary to get constant touch ups!
Brighten Your Smile with Professional Tremont Dental Care in IL
Whitening toothpaste helps remove stains from food and beverage consumption, tobacco use, and more. However, overuse can lead to serious issues, like teeth sensitivity, gum irritation, and enamel wear.
Worn-down enamel is more susceptible to cavities, which is why this seemingly innocent practice can lead to serious dental issues. If you’d like to explore safer options at Smalltown Dental, contact us today for an appointment!
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