Cosmetic Curse: Why You Shouldn’t Whiten Teeth with Cavities

Many people feel self-conscious about their smiles if their teeth aren’t as white as they’d like. Whether you have internal discoloration from genetics and medications, or external stains from drinking too many cups of coffee over the years, it’s natural to want to lighten your grin. You may feel tempted to stop by your local corner store to pick up an over-the-counter whitening kit, but unfortunately, this could do you more harm than good. Keep reading to learn why it’s best to have your teeth whitened with your dentist, instead!

Why Should I See My Dentist for Teeth Whitening?

Although buying whitening products at the store can be quite convenient, it can also be somewhat risky. In many cases, the bleaching ingredient is abrasive and can wear down the enamel of your teeth. Because it doesn’t grow back, this can damage your oral health. There’s a good chance you’ll notice tooth sensitivity, especially to hot and cold temperatures. You might accidentally apply too much of the product to your gums and cause inflammation. On top of that, you’re also more likely to develop cavities down the road because the protective outer layer of your teeth is compromised.

Your dentist, meanwhile, has access to professional-grade solutions that give you better results without causing the same discomfort. They can use this to brighten your teeth by several shades in a single in-office visit. If you don’t have the time, they can also offer a customized take-home kit so you can enhance your grin from the comfort of your own home.

How Does Teeth Whitening Impact Cavities?

Did you know that nearly 90% of adults between 20 and 64 have developed tooth decay at some point? That means nearly everyone gets them, though you don’t always know. It’s possible to have them between your teeth or behind your molars where you can’t see.

If you have tooth decay and apply an abrasive whitening agent over it, you’ll quickly learn its location! Bleaching a cavity can cause sudden or severe pain and you might end up with a costly emergency dental appointment.

Thankfully, your dentist will examine your mouth for any issues like gum disease or cavities before proceeding with any cosmetic work. They’ll work with you to mend the damage before scheduling your whitening procedure to avoid complications.

Then you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing your smile is as healthy as it is sparkling white!

About the Practice

At Stec & Stines Cosmetic & Family Dentistry, you and your entire crew benefit from multiple experts who provide a full range of services under one roof, including cosmetic treatments. With state-of-the-art technology, they maximize accuracy and patient comfort for beautiful, long-lasting results. Using Zoom! teeth whitening products, they can remove stubborn stains from your teeth onsite as well as provide take-home kits so you can lighten your teeth on your schedule. If you’d like a consultation, you’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (308) 382-4440.