As we get older, our smiles tend to fade and look a bit dull. Certain foods and drinks, along with smoking, can cause discoloration that affects the bright smile we once had.

Bringing at-home whitening products like strips and gels into your routine has become very common, and these options have gained popularity. But are they really a safe way to brighten your teeth? Are the risks of teeth whitening actually real, or should you consider professional whitening treatments instead?

Read also: The Difference Between a Gum Abscess and a Tooth Abscess

How Does Teeth Whitening Work?

Before we get into whether teeth-whitening side effects are real or exaggerated, it helps to understand the different ways you can whiten your teeth. At-home options include products like whitening strips or trays filled with gel. These are easily available over the counter and can do a good job of lightening teeth and removing stains.

All you do is place the strips or tray on your teeth and leave them on for the recommended time (this varies by product, so be sure to follow the instructions). The formulas used in most at-home whitening products contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which breaks down into hydrogen peroxide.

Hydrogen peroxide is a bleaching agent that works by breaking apart the molecules that cause discoloration from coffee, tea, red wine, and smoking. Carbamide peroxide works in a similar way, but it releases about 50% of its whitening power in the first few hours and can remain active for several hours afterward.

Overall, hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide have very similar effects. You may need to use at-home products daily for about a week to see results. You can also choose professional teeth-whitening at a dental office, where your dentist will use a higher concentration of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide.

In-office treatments can deliver longer-lasting results in a shorter amount of time. You might only need one session or a few visits to get the bright smile you’re aiming for. However, professional treatments are usually more expensive than at-home options.

Read also: Tooth Sensitivity and Nerve Pain in Teeth

Is Teeth Whitening Worth It?

If your goal is a bright, white smile, teeth whitening can be a safe option (the side effects of teeth whitening are usually quite minimal and often milder than, for example, the discomfort some people experience with braces). Still, it’s important to talk to your dentist first about your options and do some research.

The two main agents used in teeth whitening are hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide. Unlike whitening toothpaste, which relies on abrasives to physically scrub away surface stains, these bleaching agents release oxygen molecules that break down stains at a molecular level.

Many over-the-counter whitening strips, kits, and pens also use some form of peroxide. The key difference between those products and professional whitening is the concentration of the active chemicals.

Just like at-home products, there are several types of professional whitening procedures. In-office whitening at a dental clinic—such as Batal Specialty Center—is typically faster, though more expensive, for brightening your teeth. The advantage at Batal Center is that you get high-quality service with competitive pricing.

Read also: Dental Crowns | Best Types and Most Important Uses

How to Whiten Your Teeth Safely and Avoid Side Effects

To put your mind at ease, whitening products have been around for decades and are used by millions of people, including many dentists themselves. The American Dental Association (ADA) has stated that hydrogen peroxide–based whiteners are safe and effective when used correctly. If you’re going to use them, it’s important to follow professional advice on how to do so safely.

Read also: Treatment of Dental Nerve Inflammation (Pulpitis)

How to Prevent Stains on Your Teeth

You can take steps to keep your teeth bright so you don’t need to rely on whitening products too often:

Both over-the-counter whitening products you use at home and professional in-office treatments can be effective and safe—provided they are used properly and under appropriate guidance.

What to Expect at a Teeth-Whitening Appointment at Batal Specialty Clinic

Read also: Best Dental Center in Saudi Arabia

The dental clinic at Batal Specialty Complex is equipped with advanced tools and devices to help anyone suffering from tooth pain find relief, under the care of highly skilled dentists. Don’t hesitate to book an appointment at the dental clinic in Batal Specialty Complex.

Read also: Porcelain Veneers Procedure for Teeth