Are There Any Side Effects Associated with Teeth Whitening?

Teeth whitening with professional products and systems is, undoubtedly, one of the most effective ways to brighten your smile with convenience and long-lasting results. If you're like many people, one of your first questions about in-office teeth whitening is whether you may experience any side effects. This is further exaggerated by the fact that many over-the-counter teeth whitening kits are notorious for resulting in unwanted side effects. At Parker West Dental Associates, Plano, TX dentist Dr. Tim Nguyen and our committed team of dental care specialists offer a range of professional teeth whitening solutions to help meet the unique needs of our Frisco, McKinney, and Richardson patients — from those who want a quick, in-office treatment for deep-set stains to those who would prefer an at-home option to tackle more superficial discoloration. Here, you'll find helpful details about what to expect with professional-strength teeth whitening, including what side effects may be possible and how to potentially avoid them.

Which teeth whitening treatment should I get?

Compared with grocery store teeth whitening kits and strips, professional-grade teeth whitening treatments offer a number of benefits, including:

• Opportunity to whiten teeth up to multiple shades
• Treatment can be as quick as one hour
• Ability to address both superficial and deeper-set stains
• Results can be longer lasting
• Treatment can be performed in the dentist's office or at home
• Side effects may be fewer or milder
• At-home trays can be customized for a more comfortable fit

At Parker West Dental Associates, Dr. Nguyen offers several options for Plano, TX teeth whitening, including Zoom, Day White®, KoR®, and others. Many of our professional tooth whitening treatments are available in both in-office and at-home versions, allowing patients to choose the treatment that can help meet their needs and goals. Following a thorough consultation and assessment, Dr. Nguyen can help you better understand which teeth whitening treatment may be the most appropriate and effective option for you.

Will my teeth be sensitive after professional whitening treatments?

Like over-the-counter whitening kits, patients may experience some increased sensitivity following a professional whitening treatment. However, this side effects is usually milder and shorter-lived when compared with sensitivity after using drugstore whitening products. Additional side effects of professional teeth whitening, though rare, may include:

• Allergic reaction
• Irritated gums
• Rough tooth texture

When performed properly by a trained and experienced specialist using an appropriate product, severe or lasting side effects of professional teeth whitening are rare.

Can I get my teeth whitened if they are already sensitive?

Getting your already sensitive teeth whitened is possible, though it may result in even more exacerbated tooth sensitivity after treatment. Still, this side effect is usually temporary and resolves on its own, particularly with proper aftercare and these helpful tips after professional teeth whitening treatments:

• Avoid foods and beverages that are overly hot or cold
• Stick to lukewarm or cool, soft foods and beverages
• Avoid sugary foods and drinks
• Do not smoke
• Use a desensitizing toothpaste and/or mouthwash as recommended

Give your teeth the VIP treatment with professional teeth whitening in Plano, TX

When it comes to getting a whiter, brighter smile without unwanted side effects or subpar results, professional teeth whitening at Parker West Dental Associates is an excellent choice for those near Frisco, McKinney, or Richardson, TX. For more information about the full suite of in-office and at-home professional teeth whitening products and services we offer, call our convenient Plano, TX dental office to schedule your consultation or teeth whitening appointment with Dr. Tim Nguyen today.