It’s natural for teeth to become discolored and darker as we age. That being said, this is still one of the most common reasons why people are self-conscious about the appearance of their teeth. Fortunately, professional teeth whitening is available to help patients achieve a smile they are more confident to show off. However, getting your teeth whitening with existing cavities is a recipe for disaster. Continue reading to learn why it’s so important that you are cavity-free.
What Happens If You Whiten Your Teeth with Cavities?
When you have cavities, using a tooth whitening kit isn’t the best idea. The whitening agent that is used in most whitening treatments contains hydrogen peroxide. It is great for removing stains, but it can cause sensitivity, even in healthy teeth. When there is a cavity, the whitening agent will be making contact with the sensitive inner lawyers of your teeth and can cause a significant amount of pain. That’s why you need to have your teeth examined to ensure that you don’t have any existing decay, cracks, or other damage to your smile that could get in the way of the whitening process.
How Does Professional Teeth Whitening Work?
One of the disadvantages of getting a store-bought teeth whitening kit is the fact that you not know if you have cavities or tooth decay. However, you can still whiten your teeth safely with professional-grade in-office or take home teeth whitening from your dentist. In addition to improved results, your dentist will check your mouth to ensure that you don’t have any preexisting dental issues ahead of time.
If you choose in-office teeth whitening, your dentist will make sure you receive even, dramatic results. For take-home teeth whitening, you will be provided with custom-made trays and a supply of whitening gel that is stronger than anything that you can find over the counter. You can expect to see results within one to two weeks when used as directed. In-office and take-home teeth whitening can also be paired together for even longer-lasting results.
You shouldn’t risk your smile. If you want to show off whiter teeth, schedule an appointment with your dentist. You will be showing off a brighter smile in just a matter of time!
About the Author
Dr. Khushboo Gandhi is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for nearly two decades. She first completed her dental degree in India before moving to the United States and obtaining her doctorate from the Oklahoma College of Dentistry. Since then, she has been committed to continuing education to keep her knowledge and skills sharp. To learn more about teeth whitening or to schedule a consultation, visit her website or call (972) 532-6506.