Teeth Whitening: The Good, The Bad and The Verdict

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Let’s Start with the Facts

Teeth whitening has become a common procedure in dentistry. The procedure uses products that contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide as agents to transform the color of your teeth.

The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry reports that 74 percent of adults believe unattractive smiles hinder employment success. The confidence that accompanies a whiter smile is a key benefit of teeth whitening.
 

Bleaching sounds risky. Is it safe?

When it's done under professional supervision it is! It minimizes possible risk factors such as soft tissue irritation, blotchy appearance and unintentional ingestion, while maximizing the whitening results. In-office whitening products are not only fast-acting, but they also have a neutral pH to prevent dehydration and shade relapse.

The Good

  • Efficient: Teeth whitening could fix months of yellow teeth in as fast as 15 minutes. 

  • Low risk: The right bleaching formula will NOT harm your enamel or gums. 

  • And of course, WHITER TEETH!

The Bad (That’s not TOO BAD)

  • Tooth sensitivity: Short-lived and varies for each individual. At BrilliantSmile®, we use a product that contains potassium nitrate and fluoride, which helps relieve tooth sensitivity; 

  • Gum Irritation: Generally happens with ill-fitting at home trays or in the presence of gingivitis (puffy gums). At BrilliantSmile® we use a special dam to minimize gum sensitivity. Otherwise it can last 24-48 hours after treatment completion.

  • May require periodic re-application.

  • Cannot change the color of existing fillings or crowns.

The Verdict

The purpose of teeth whitening is to create a brighter smile and boost confidence. There are safety measures that should be considered but for us New Yorkers, risks out weight the benefits.  Book a complimentary consultation to see if teeth whitening is right for you.