Can Excessive Tooth Whitening Cause Problems?

Can Teeth Get Any Whiter?

Teeth whitening is all the rage. According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, teeth whitening is the number one requested cosmetic service today, and its popularity is on the rise. Many consumers admit that tooth whitening can be addictive, leaving them feeling as though their teeth can never be white enough.

Can Excessive Tooth Whitening Cause Problems?

Yes, excessive tooth whitening can cause problems. In fact, half of those who whiten have reported mild to moderate pain, and one in 25 report severe, disabling pain after using tooth whitening products.  Especially when they are used more often than recommended, tooth whiteners can pit and etch the surfaces of teeth, leaving the enamel rough and more likely to stain.

This leaves people tempted to whiten more often than recommended, or to leave whitening products on the teeth longer than recommended.

What Makes People Think Their Teeth Aren’t Whiten Enough

There are several things that can make people think their teeth should be whiter. For instance, those with pale complexions have teeth that look a little yellower than those with darker complexions, simply because their skin is whiter than their teeth.

Another reason people tend to think their teeth aren’t white enough is the media portrayal of actors and actresses with flawless, white teeth. Like those who pine to be as thin as runway models, Americans are constantly comparing themselves with those whose only jobs are to look good.

Helping patients understand that their expectations should be tempered by their circumstances will help them understand that over-whitening their teeth is neither healthy nor attractive.