Cosmetic Dentistry & Teeth Whitening
The market for teeth whitening products and procedures is in the billions; and aside from the high cost of these products and procedures there are other reasons dental stain prevention is a good idea that just makes sense.
The vast majority of whitening treatments, including those using light enhancement utilize various concentrations of hydrogen peroxide. Excessive exposure to laser or light enhanced peroxide whitening compounds can weaken the structure of the enamel.
The light energy causes the peroxides to penetrate deeper into the enamel, thus closer to the nerve. When teeth are then exposed to acidic solutions (such as soda or juice) some demineralization (calcium loss) can occur. This is also the reason dentists warn patients that for the first few days following a whitening procedure, their teeth are especially susceptible to staining; and they should avoid dark colored foods and drinks for the first few days.
Additionally, many consumers are discouraged from using whitening products and procedures at all, due to thin sensitive teeth, or gum disease; and many experience extreme sensitivity after bleaching their teeth. For these people, over whitening can not only be painful, but over time, can potentially cause thin teeth to take on a slight bluish tint and transparency around the edges which may indicate damage to the structure of the enamel.
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