As awesome as teeth whitening is unfortunately it is not for everyone. Sometimes it can be harmful, and other times it will just prove to be unsuccessful.
Pregnancy and age can lead to whitening issues. Any child under the age of 16 should not be whitening. The reason is that the pulp chamber found in the tooth or the nerves of the teeth are enlarged until a child turns 16. Whitening before this age can lead to problems, sensitivity and irritation.
As for pregnant or lactating women, they should not whiten under any circumstances. It is important to the baby that no whitening solution enter the mother’s bloodstream. It is one of those “why risk it” situations. Like people who have braces, patience is your best solution in this case.
Allergies and sensitivity in the teeth have been a big issue with whitening. Anyone who has sensitive teeth or gums, receding gums or restorations that have become damaged should see their dentist before whitening. Anyone who has had an allergic reaction to peroxide should not use any bleaching products whatsoever.
Others who should avoid whitening are those with work enamel or gum diseases, cavities or exposed roots. Cavities will need to be corrected before whitening is done. Otherwise the solution can actually penetrate the teeth causing really sensitive reactions. Also, if roots are exposed they are without enamel, and therefore will not whiten.
Ahhh, the age old question “what if I have dental work?” Anyone with crowns, restorations, fillings and people with braces will need to consult a dentist before attempting to whiten at home. With the restorations, crowns and fillings whitening will be unsuccessful, and with braces spot whitening is most likely going to occur. Sometimes bonding veneers may be better for those with a lot of restorations, and patience is recommended for anyone with braces.
Remember, whitening is not going to give you a Hollywood smile. Have realistic expectations. There is a lot to getting and keeping your teeth white, and some of these many things are not smoking, avoiding teeth staining products, dark liquids through a straw and exceptional oral hygiene. The best way to know what level of white is right for you is to look for a shade just a bit whiter than the white parts of your eyes.
People who have really dark yellow stains on their teeth or yellowed teeth will be good candidates for teeth whitening. Those with brown stains however will not respond as well. These with the blue-gray stains are not good candidate either, and in most cases will not benefit at all form whitening.
Most of the time the blue-grey stains are caused by antibiotics, and this is an internal issue requiring lengthy treatments. See your dentist if you have dark or blue grey stained to see what options will better suit you.
With the exception of the above stated cases, teeth whitening is a really fantastic solution for so many people. Even if you do not qualify to be a good home candidate, maybe there is something that you can do professionally to whiten. Call your dentist for a consultation today, and see how whitening can change your life and your smile.
