Whitening | 4 min read
Is teeth whitening safe? What a dentist wants you to know
Whitening at a clinic is safe for most people. Here is who should wait, what it feels like and how long it lasts.
By Dr. Mahnoor Farooq, Smile Dental Clinic (demo)
Whitening done by a dentist is safe for most adults. The dentist checks your teeth and gums first, covers the gums and uses a gel at a strength that does not harm the enamel.
Who should wait
- Pregnant or breastfeeding mothers
- Children under 16
- People with cavities or gum disease, until these are treated
- Front teeth with crowns or veneers, since these do not change colour
What it feels like
Most people feel nothing during whitening. Some feel mild sensitivity to cold for a day or two after. A sensitivity toothpaste helps.
How long it lasts
Usually 1 to 2 years. Tea, coffee, paan and smoking bring the stains back sooner. Rinse with water after tea and keep up your 6-monthly scaling.
Avoid
Whitening powders and charcoal from the market can scratch enamel. If you want whiter teeth, ask a dentist first.
Sample article on a demo website, for general information only. It is not medical advice: always ask your own dentist.