How Safe is Tooth Whitening?

Manhattan Dentist | Upper East Side Cosmetic Dentistry

Tooth whitening is becoming more and more popular. Teeth can get stained over time from age or from eating and drinking certain kinds of foods. Coffee has always been a big culprit when it comes to stained teeth. But how safe is tooth whitening?

Years of research has been done regarding the safety of tooth whitening and it has been found that popular methods of tooth whitening is not only safe, but also very effective. One of the best ways to ensure that the tooth whitening product you have chosen is safe and effective, is to make sure it says “clinically proven” on the box. Another way is to use products that have been recommended by your dental professional.

Sometimes people experience sensitivity to tooth whitening products that have stronger levels of bleach. This can result in sensitivity to hot or cold foods following the procedure. If for some reason your mouth becomes sensitive after a whitening procedure you can use toothpaste for sensitive teeth or wear the whitening product for a shorter amount of time. As with any cosmetic dentistry questions, your dentist can give you recommendations and warnings based on your dental history.

Dr. Lattinelli and Associates offer in-office bleaching of your teeth. This usually requires one office visit. A protective gel is placed over the gums to protect the soft tissues and a bleaching agent is then applied to the teeth. A laser light is used after the bleaching agent is applied to enhance the whitening agent. You can also do at-home bleaching. This requires an impression of the teeth to create a mouth guard. The mouth guard holds the whitening gel against the teeth for a specific period of time. Depending on the desired results, this can be done for up to four weeks or longer.

If you are interested in tooth whitening, make an appointment with Dr. Lattinelli and Associates today. Our dentist office can help you with all of your dental needs. We are located at 121 East 60th Street, 10th Floor, in New York, NY.