Precautions and indications for teeth whitening.
Teeth bleaching is effective and safe, providing some specific principles, like the following ones, are taken in consideration.
 Bleaching should be avoided in children and adolescents, because the nerve inside the tooth is still very bulky at this age and consequently, closer to the enameled surface. This means the nerve may get irritated or damaged by chemical agents.
Allergy cases to peroxide substances are contra-indications for bleaching.
The mouthpieces carrying the bleaching gel into the mouth must be as accurate as possible. They have to protect the gums and the rest of the mouth by preventing any significant leakage of peroxide substance. The amount of bleaching gel must be reasonable. It should be enough to cover each tooth separately but by no means to overflow the edges of the tray, when this is applied in the mouth. Very good rinsing is always recommended after each session.
The concentrations of the bleaching substance contained in a product should not exceed the 22% for carbamide peroxide or 6.6% for hydrogen peroxide. Higher concentrations may
involve
safety issues and increase the risk for enamel erosion or severe sensitivity in cold or hot.
Teeth bleaching should not be done more often than eight months. Typically, it is recommended to be performed once a year.
Teeth whitening is not recommended in pregnant or lactating women, since no conclusions about safety have been established yet. After all, the gums may be vulnerable or sore in these states because of hormonal reasons.
If there are any fractures, erosions, cavities, defective fillings or crowns, restorative treatment must be done before bleaching.
Bleaching does not make any difference on artificial teeth or white fillings. Any ceramic or resin composite fillings and prosthetic appliances, such as crowns, veneers, bridges or dentures should be made afterwards and be matched shade-wise, according to the improved color of the teeth.
If the teeth are prone to sensitivity in cold or hot, whitening should be avoided or combined with fluoride or potassium nitrate agents that can prevent the progressive deterioration of the discomfort. Tooth pastes or gels for sensitive teeth, if used in between the bleaching sessions, are very useful.
Tartar must be removed and unhealthy gums must treated accordingly, before any bleaching procedure takes place. Even healthy gums should be adequately protected in each session. Otherwise, there is a possibility for them to get sore. This discomfort disappears within a few days after the last session, though. Before you apply the bleaching stuff, you can spread some Vaseline on your gums, if they are sensitive and you want to protect them. Use a flavored version, if you cannot tolerate the greasy sensation of Vaseline.
Teeth whitening affects only the enamel and not dentine. Thus, the color of any exposed part of a root will not be improved.
For more information about the above issues and for a professional evaluation of your mouth you may ask your dentist.
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