Professional Teeth Whitening - Common Misconceptions and Setting Them Straight
Many people shy away from professional teeth whitening because of what they've heard about the whitening techniques and procedures used. Some are rumors and falsehoods that have grown up surrounding the burgeoning cosmetic dentistry industry. Many other concerns stem from stories arising from patients who did not go to a certified dentist or licensed professional. Allowing yourself to be treated by someone who is not trained can lead to all kinds of dangerous side effects. The first thing that everyone must do is to make sure his or her dentist is properly trained and certified.
A big misconception is that bleaching agents can cause oral cancer. The chemicals used to whiten teeth by most dentists are hydrogen peroxide or carbomide peroxide. No study has shown that these two chemicals play any part what so ever in causing cancer. The chemicals are diluted to begin with and saliva in the mouth works to further dilute the solutions as a natural occurrence.
Other voice concerns that a lasting side effect of professional teeth whitening is that chemicals used will ultimately burn the nerve endings and soft pulp inside the tooth. These stories come from countries where there is no regulations governing the strength of the solution used. Here in America, licensed professionals are trained to use only the correct amount of solutions to whiten teeth. Most cosmetic dentists in America will only whiten the front teeth, preferring to keep the whitening solutions out of contact with the soft tissue inside the mouth, in other words, the gums, the cheeks and lips.
Another half-truth that circulates is that teeth whitening cannot be performed on dental work or caps, fillings, and crowns. This may be true in some instances. However there are numerous other options available for the dentist to employ. Porcelain veneers and replacement of the old work are always possible instead of whitening. Standard fillings and root canals are not affected by whitening techniques. A consultation with the dentist prior to having any work done will allay any fears.
The whitening agents will also not affect the natural tooth enamel. This rumor harkens back several years when dentist routinely scratched off stains. Now, new techniques dissolve stains rather than rub them off. Modern whitening treatments enter into the tooth enamel to neutralize foreign color and allowing the original coloring to return to prominence.