Teeth-whitening procedures involve the application of bleaching agents to remove stains and discoloration from the enamel. If done professionally, a dentist applies the bleaching agent, such as hydrogen peroxide, to the teeth using a mouth guard. At home kits are available with a reduced concentration of the bleaching agent. However, before you whiten your teeth, review the possible health risks and dangers with your dentist.
Tooth Enamel Damage
Some tooth-whitening kits used at home contain acids in their active ingredients. Using these kits too often may damage the enamel of the teeth over time. If tooth whitening is performed at home, all instructions should be followed to reduce the risk of damaging the enamel.
Gum Irritation
The mouth guards used as part of tooth-whitening procedures may irritate the gums. In home kits, this is more likely to occur since these mouth guards are not customized like the types used during professional whitening. If the bleaching agent comes into contact with the gums, this may also irritate the area.
Hot and Cold Sensitivity
According to the American Dental Hygienists' Association, the bleaching agent found in tooth-whitening kits may affect your sensitivity to hot and cold food and beverages. In most cases, the sensitivity may only last a few days after treatment. However, in some cases, the effects may be long term. Some pain and discomfort may occur during and after bleaching treatments.
Oral Cancer
According to a study conducted in 2004 at the Georgetown University Hospital and published in the journal "Oncology Times", a possible correlation was found between the early onset of oral cancer and the use of teeth whiteners. The study showed that two patients developed oral cancer at an early age and were frequent users of tooth-whitening products. Though the study could not fully confirm that teeth-whitening products directly cause oral cancer, the data gathered from these two cases still suggest a possible link between cancer and teeth whiteners.
