A brighter smile can boost your confidence, which is why teeth whitening remains one of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments. With so many whitening strips, gels, toothpastes, and DIY treatments available, it may be tempting to whiten your teeth without talking to a dentist first. However, a quick dental consultation can help you determine whether whitening is appropriate and how to achieve your desired results safely.
Here are 4 reasons to consult your dentist before whitening your teeth.
1. Your Discoloration May Have an Underlying Cause
Not all tooth discoloration is the same. Staining from coffee, tea, red wine, or tobacco may respond well to whitening. However, discoloration can also result from tooth decay, trauma, certain medications, enamel changes, or other dental conditions.
Your dentist can examine your teeth and determine what may be causing the discoloration. Addressing an underlying dental problem before pursuing cosmetic treatment can help protect your oral health.
2. Whitening Can Increase Sensitivity
Temporary tooth sensitivity is one of the most common side effects of teeth whitening. People who already have sensitive teeth may be particularly concerned about discomfort during or after treatment.
A dentist can evaluate your teeth and gums before whitening and recommend an approach based on your individual needs. In some cases, your dentist may suggest adjusting the concentration or frequency of whitening treatment or addressing existing sensitivity first.
3. Dental Restorations Won’t Whiten
If you have crowns, veneers, bridges, or tooth-colored fillings, it’s important to know that whitening products generally affect natural tooth structure, not dental restorations.
Whitening your natural teeth without considering existing restorations could result in a mismatch between the color of your teeth and your crowns or veneers. Your dentist can help you plan the timing of whitening and any future cosmetic dental work so your smile has a more consistent appearance.
4. Your Dentist Can Help You Choose the Right Treatment
There are numerous whitening options available, and they aren’t all equally appropriate for every patient. A dentist can discuss professional whitening and other options based on your goals, the condition of your teeth, and the type of staining you have.
Professional guidance can also help you avoid excessive or improper whitening that could irritate your gums or increase sensitivity.
Teeth whitening can be an effective way to improve the appearance of your smile, but cosmetic treatment should begin with an evaluation of your oral health. Consulting your dentist first gives you an opportunity to identify potential problems, discuss sensitivity, account for dental restorations, and choose an appropriate whitening approach.
About the Author
Dr. James Kirby graduated from dental school at the University of Tennessee in Memphis and enjoys all aspects of dentistry, but especially cosmetic treatments. He and his team at Green Hills Dental Center in Nashville can give you a smile glow-up with teeth whitening, veneers, bonding, and all-ceramic restorations. To schedule your consultation, call us at (615) 327-2123 or visit our website.