Not satisfied with the color of your teeth and want to do something about it? If so, professional teeth whitening may be just what you need. Here are a few questions about the procedure that you will likely want answers for. 

Will Teeth Whitening Damage Your Teeth?

A common misconception about teeth whitening is that it can potentially damage your teeth. This is because teeth whitening can cause your teeth to become sensitive after the procedure is finished. Sensitivity is not due to damage, but from the removal of the stain molecules on your teeth. Whitening can actually open up the pores of your teeth, known as dentinal tubules, which cause that sensitivity as well.

One thing to keep in mind is that teeth whitening is best done by a dentist in their office to avoid causing damage to your gums. The key is to make sure that the chemicals do not come in contact with your gums, which requires a careful application of the very strong whitening gels. 

Why Not Use Whitening Toothpaste?

Most home teeth whitening products work because they are abrasive. When used for long periods of time, the products can actually alter the structure of the tooth in a way that makes it more sensitive. As the top layer of enamel wears away, the tooth can even look more yellow as a result.  

In addition, home whitening products often take a while to see the results. Professional whitening will lead to instant results that will be noticed by others. It's the best way to whiten your teeth for a specific situation, such as a wedding where you want your teeth to look perfect for photos. 

How Does Whitening Affect Filling Material?

Teeth whitening works best when you are changing the color of natural teeth. It is not going to change the colors of crowns or dental fillings. If you have a filling or bonding material used on the front surface of your visible teeth, then it can cause that part of the tooth to not become whiter as a result of the treatment.

However, there are still other cosmetic treatments to help resolve issues with problematic teeth. Your dentist may suggest a dental veneer for those teeth so that the front surface matches the ones that surround it. 

Still have questions about teeth whitening? Ask a cosmetic dentist for more information about this procedure so you feel comfortable moving forward.