Teeth Whitening Safety

Teeth-whitening side effects and safety

Many users of whitening products experience temporary tooth and gum pain, which in some cases can be severe. Reviews on Amazon.com, TeethWhiteningReviews.com and Drugstore.com often mention pain and sensitivity. A 2006 study published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews examines data from 25 separate trials on whitening products. The most common side effects are "mild" or "moderate" tooth sensitivity and gum irritation. Tooth sensitivity corresponds to the concentration of peroxide; higher percentages of peroxide are apt to cause more irritation.

Tooth sensitivity may help guard against the overuse of whitening products. Consumers may be more apt to remove a product at the instructed time if teeth or gums begin to ache. Overuse of whitening products can be detrimental. In an article on WebMD, Van Haywood, DMD, a professor in the Department of Oral Rehabilitation at the Medical College of Georgia, states that, with extreme use, teeth may become transparent.

However, when used properly, almost all data on tooth-whitening attests to its safety. A 2006 literature review published in the Journal of Esthetic and Restorative Dentistry finds no correlation between hydrogen peroxide tooth whitening products and oral cancer. Many studies at the 2007 International Association for Dental Research examine whether whitening can damage the structure of the tooth, including the enamel. One study shows that the three products tested (NiteWhite ACP, Opalescence PF and Tres White) decrease enamel hardness and density. Most studies show no harmful effects, although long-term data is not presented. Data from a report presented at the 2005 Materials Research Society suggests that whitening can reduce the hardness of tooth enamel. In testing on extracted teeth, a carbamide peroxide solution of 10% reduces enamel hardness by 22%. A 35% carbamide solution reduces enamel hardness by 82%. Researchers note, however, that results may differ in a "live" environment where saliva is present. There is little evidence that occasional whitening treatments cause damage, but a few studies do note that some people find teeth-whitening psychologically addictive.

An article in WebMD notes that some people should not undergo tooth-whitening. Bleaching is not recommended in children younger than 16 because the pulp chamber, or nerve of the tooth, is enlarged until this age. Teeth-whitening could irritate the pulp or cause it to become sensitive. Pregnant or lactating women should also forgo teeth-whitening. People who have gum disease or teeth with worn enamel are usually discouraged from undergoing a tooth-whitening procedure. Cavities should be treated before undergoing any whitening procedure.