Traditionally, white teeth could only be obtained by visiting your dentist's office. As technology has improved, multiple products are now available, including various gels, pastes, trays and toothpastes, each of which allows you to bleach your teeth from home. Although bleaching your teeth from home is convenient, bleaching too much, or too often, can cause unwanted side effects.
Sensitivity
One of the most common side effects of bleaching your teeth is the development of tooth sensitivity. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), tooth sensitivity typically occurs after the first few applications of the product. Tooth sensitivity is due to the active ingredients hydrogen or carbamide peroxide, which temporarily dissolve mineral plugs in the dentinal tubules of the teeth, causing temporary sensitivity.
Translucence
Over-bleaching of the teeth may also cause the edges of your teeth to take on a blue translucent look. Translucence occurs when too much of the natural white opaque pigment of the tooth is removed during bleaching. According to New York City cosmetic dentist Dr. Nancy Rosen, this translucent look is permanent.
Gum Tissue Damage
Bleaching ingredients in teeth whitening products are specifically made for the resilient hard surfaces of your teeth. Gum tissue is more sensitive and is not built to withstand the chemical strength of bleaching solutions. Because of the tissue sensitivity, regular exposure to bleaching ingredients may cause gum tissue inflammation and irritation. To avoid gum tissue damage, the ADA recommends using a 10 percent carbamide peroxide solution home bleaching kit with a custom-fit tray to keep the bleaching solution on the teeth and away from the gums.
Uneven Whiteness
Bleaching teeth may also result in uneven whiteness. Uneven whiteness occurs due to different levels of buildup on the surface of the teeth and uneven application of the product. Uneven coloring is more common in paint on gel products that use a manual applicator instead of strips or trays, but can occur with any bleaching method.
Tooth Pain
If bleaching solution is able to seep into a cracked tooth or unfilled cavity, severe tooth irritation and pain may occur. Stopping the use of the product may relieve the symptoms, but continual use of the product may progress the irritation to the point where a root canal may need to be performed.
