There are various methods of teeth whitening, ranging from natural remedies using simple kitchen ingredients to professional procedures done by the dentist. There are also teeth whitening kits available in drug stores. Before you decide on any of these, it is important to keep certain points in mind, since these treatments may cause side effects.


Here are some helpful teeth whitening safety tips.

Consult your dentist
Even if you wish to whiten your teeth at home using natural remedies or over-the-counter kits, it is advisable to first visit your dentist. Have a dental examination and professional cleaning done.


Sometimes this is all that’s needed to improve the appearance of your teeth. You will also know if you have any cavities. It is highly important to treat cavities before undergoing teeth whitening. Your dentist will also evaluate your gums. In case there are signs of inflammation, you will need to postpone teeth whitening treatments. Seek your dentist’s advice about which whitening treatments are appropriate for you. Find out how much you can expect your teeth to lighten, since ageing can darken the teeth and the effects of whitening treatments may vary from one individual to another.

Buy the right teeth whitening products
Teeth whitening strips and gels which can be used at home contain carbamide peroxide in different concentrations. This chemical can lead to various side effects when used in higher quantities. Opt for products which contain moderate levels of the bleaching agent. In case you do not obtain the desired amount of whitening and can tolerate the product well, then you can opt for a higher concentration. More importantly, check the product for a license or certification from a reputed and established dentistry association. Products that carry such information are usually safe to use.

Follow the directions carefully
Make sure that you follow the directions on the product packaging carefully. If you leave the gel or strip on for too long, it can cause irritation to the gums. Most whitening strips recommend keeping the strips on for 30 minutes each day for a period of two weeks. Keeping them on any longer can lead to inflammation and other problems in the gums. After the treatment, avoid drinking any acidic beverages such as sodas for at least a couple of hours. Some products even specify which foods should not be eaten after the treatment. Most products also state that crowns may not whiten and there may be unevenness in the color. Pregnant and nursing mothers are advised to avoid teeth whitening.

Watch out for sensitivity
Most teeth whitening products lead to some amount of sensitivity. This is usually temporary. In case you find the inflammation or discomfort excessive, stop the treatment and undergo a dental examination. You are not likely to experience problems of sensitivity if you have healthy teeth and gums. You may also experience irritation if the trays do not fit your teeth well. Hence it is advisable to opt for dentist supervised whitening treatments.  

Don’t go overboard
Teeth whitening treatments have become so easily accessible, many people use it more often than required. Overuse of such products can cause damage to your teeth and gums. After using the treatment and obtaining a satisfactory result, you can do a touch up treatment once a month.

Check for allergies
Some people may suffer an allergic reaction due to the chemicals found in teeth whitening products. These include carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide. This can lead to severe damage to the enamel of the teeth when used repeatedly. It is best to avoid using such treatments if you are allergic.