Are you looking to try teeth whitening to enhance the brightness of your smile? Many people just like you turn to this popular cosmetic solution for fast results. However, when choosing an over-the-counter whitening kit, not only is it unlikely to produce the kind of results you desire, but it can also cause additional damage to your smile, especially if you have cavities. Read on to find out why it’s best to have any decay treated before moving forward with professional teeth whitening.
Why Should Cavities Be Filled Before Teeth Whitening?
When inquiring about teeth whitening, you can expect that your dentist will complete a thorough examination of your smile to start. If dental decay is evident, you don’t need to necessarily consider yourself ineligible for cosmetic treatment. However, it may be delayed.
The reason is that cavities and teeth whitening do not go well together for one reason – hydrogen peroxide. It’s not uncommon for patients with healthy teeth to experience some slight sensitivity when having their teeth bleached; however, when the whitening gel is applied to cavity-stricken teeth, the irritation can be exacerbated, resulting in extreme discomfort.
In the most serious cases, you may find that your damaged tooth is ruined if exposed to teeth whitening.
Why Should You See a Professional First?
Whitening your teeth is frankly something you should leave up to a professional to complete. Using over-the-counter whitening kits, gels, strips, trays, and pens will only lead you to spend more money and time on lackluster results.
Seeing a professional ensures that the investment you make will be well worth it. It also serves as a reliable option if you want beautiful results that are achieved safely. What this means is that your teeth will be thoroughly checked before any attempt at teeth whitening begins.
A good dentist will suggest appropriate treatment (i.e., tooth-colored fillings or dental crowns) if decay or cavities exist and then build a plan that includes teeth whitening. By taking care of the problem areas first, you can move forward with cosmetic care knowing that your smile is in the best possible shape.
While sensitivity might still be a possibility, the intensity of it will be significantly less if you do not have teeth with cavities or decay. Instead, you can embrace a whiter, brighter, more beautiful smile that looks and feels healthy.
About the Author
Dr. Dhiren Ahir is a cosmetic dentist in Denton who cares about producing beautiful smiles. Offering teeth whitening to patients looking to enhance their appearances, he and his team at Prime Dentistry use both in-office and at-home solutions to whiten teeth safely and effectively. He also integrates advanced technology to conduct restorative dental services that help patients improve the health of their smile before pursuing cosmetic treatment. To find out if you need preliminary care before teeth whitening, visit our website or call (940) 514-0333.
