Teeth whitening has many benefits from boosting your confidence to making your smile appear brighter and healthier. However, if you have cavities, whitening treatments can do more harm than good. Before you rush to your dentist to whiten your teeth, it’s important to take care of any dental issues first. But what do cavities and other dental problems have to do with teeth whitening? Read on to discover why dental damage and whitening don’t mix!
Why Cavities Make Teeth Whitening Risky
Cavities create holes or weak spots in your enamel, the protective outer layer of your teeth. So, whitening products, which often use strong bleaching agents like hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide can easily seep in.
Normally, this is how these chemicals work to break up and remove stains, but when there’s exposed tooth pulp it has a different effect. Once the bleaching agents reach the core of your tooth through the weakened areas it can cause increased sensitivity, irritation, and actually worsen the damage.
How to Protect Your Smile Before Whitening
Before starting any whitening treatment, there are a few things you can do to help lower the risk of cavities. First, make sure you’re following a complete dental routine that includes brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing before bed. This will keep your mouth free from food particles and bacteria that cause cavities.
Next, schedule a dental checkup. Your dentist will thoroughly examine your teeth for cavities or other issues that could make whitening unsafe. They can also take X-rays to detect hidden decay. By addressing these problems first, you’ll protect your teeth and ensure better whitening results in the future!
Teeth whitening is a fantastic way to enhance your smile, but only when your teeth are healthy. By addressing cavities before starting treatment, you’ll avoid unnecessary risks and enjoy beautiful, even results. If you’re ready for a smile transformation of your own, call your dentist to schedule a consultation. This will set you up for whitening success and ensure your smile looks and feels its best.
About the Author
Dr. Joe Ornelas is a talented and experienced dentist with a degree from the Indiana University School of Dentistry. Over the years, he has helped countless patients achieve stunning smiles they love with quality preventive and cosmetic dentistry services. Whether you want a brighter smile or a healthier mouth, he uses the latest dental technology and techniques to make your vision into reality. Call (219) 663-2892 to schedule a cosmetic dentistry consultation at Ornelas Family Dental of Crown Point or visit our website for more information.