Teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure that, although now it's very popular and desired, is not a necessity. For those with certain health
issues including teeth and gum issues, getting your teeth whitened is not always
the best idea. You should avoid getting your teeth whitened if:
- If
you have sensitive teeth: the hydrogen peroxide gel used in teeth
whitening gels is a bleaching agent that causes sensitivity during
whitening procedures. If you already have sensitive teeth or overly
sensitive teeth, teeth whitening procedures may cause extreme discomfort
for you. - You
have GERD or acid erosion on your teeth: GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux
Disease) is a digestive disorder that causes acid indigestion and/or
reflux. This causes tooth erosion and damage to tooth enamel. Weak enamel
is not ideal for teeth whitening procedures as the bleaching agents may
cause further damage and sensitivity. Whitening over a weak enamel can
also cause teeth to become even more discoloured. - You
have gum recession: Whitening gels can cause sensitivity which can then
lead to gum recession. If you already experience gum recession, whitening
your teeth can then exacerbate the issue. - Your
gums are sensitive: teeth and gum sensitivity is heightened during
whitening procedures. If you have sensitive gums, your sensitivity may be
extremely uncomfortable or even unbearable during treatment and should
therefore be avoided. - You
have visible white fillings or crowns: Whitening will not be effective on
parts of the teeth that have white fillings or are crowned. - You
have sensitivity to hydrogen peroxide: hydrogen peroxide is the agent used
to whiten teeth. If you are sensitive to this substance, you will
experience extreme discomfort during whitening procedures. - You
have cavities: Your teeth must be in a healthy condition before preforming
and whitening procedures. Not only will cavities affect the whitening
process by creating uneven spots, they will also cause discomfort during
the procedure. - You
are pregnant or breastfeeding: Although there is no hard evidence that
suggests that undergoing teeth whitening procedures effect unborn babies,
it is highly recommended to avoid the procedure as it is an unnecessary
risk. - You
are under 18 years old: cosmetic procedures can be dangerous to children
under the legal adult age and unsuitable for youth teeth.
If you are considering getting your teeth professionally
whitened, be sure to act safely and do not whiten your teeth if you belong to
any of the above categories.