There are plenty of good reasons to get your teeth professionally whitened by a dentist, but there is one specific instance where you might want to avoid it – at least temporarily. If you have an active case of cavities or early signs of tooth decay, it’s best to treat the issue with a tooth-colored filling before doing anything else. Keep reading to learn why cavities and teeth whitening simply don’t mix!
It Can Cause Permanent Damage
Rest assured, teeth whitening treatments are perfectly safe for healthy smiles. The bleaching agent will stay within the outer layers of your teeth, slipping past enough pours to eliminate stains without going so deep as to irritate the squishier inner layers.
The problem with cavities and tooth decay is that they break down the outer layers, and more or less chew a hole through your pearly whites. This means if you were to whiten your teeth, the bleaching agents would “fall” into the holes and damage your dental pulp and nerves. That result may not be reversible.
It Will Be Painful
Again, when teeth are healthy, a teeth whitening treatment shouldn’t cause pain. Your dentist can even make adjustments to the bleaching agents so that if you do have a history of sensitivity, you can still whiten your smile in comfort.
Remember how cavities and tooth decay can create holes that expose the inner layers of your teeth? Those inner layers are not as tough as your outer enamel. The same bleaching irritation that can cause permanent dental damage will also make the otherwise mild treatment process very painful.
No matter which teeth whitening method you decide on, it’s best to talk to your cosmetic dentist in Los Angeles and get a thorough oral exam before committing. If they see signs of cavities or decay, a quick filling will protect your inner dental layers from damage and discomfort. You’ll be much happier with your teeth whitening treatment in the long run!
About the Author
Dr. Les Latner often had cavities as a child, so he knows first-hand just how disastrous (and uncomfortable) they can be. Now, he has accreditation in the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and is well-qualified to help patients whiten their teeth safely and comfortably. He’s also quite skilled at creating perfectly seamless tooth-colored fillings! If you’re concerned about the health or appearance of your smile, simply call Dr. Latner’s office at 310-765-7441 and schedule your appointment today.