I’ve never had a cavity, but I’m 43 years old and my teeth have started showing their age. My dentist offered me some free teeth whitening as a thank you for being such a loyal patient. I was thrilled at first. But, since taking it my teeth have become a little sensitive. Does that mean I’m getting a cavity? Does teeth whitening cause cavities?
Laurie
Dear Laurie,
Your enamel is the hardest substance in your body. It is permeable, though. You can wear it down by grinding your teeth or brushing too hard. Acidic food and drinks can also wear it down. Acid can also lead to the minerals seeping out of your teeth. The minerals are a strong defense against decay. When there is demineralization, it leaves your teeth susceptible to decay.
How Teeth Whitening Products Effect Your Teeth
Your teeth are porous as well. Your tubuals, which provide a pathway from the outside of your tooth to the inside, are typically closed shut. However, teeth whitening opens them up so the whitening gel can get deep into the tooth, whitening it from the inside out.
This can make your teeth a little sensitive, which may be what you’re feeling. That doesn’t mean you have any decay brewing. One thing which could help is to ask your dentist to give you some fluoride. This will help both with the sensitivity and the demineralization that can happen from anything acidic in your diet.
Because your teeth are more open during the teeth whitening process, it is advisable for you to stay away from any staining foods or drinks during this time period, such as coffee or tea.
The whitening products your dentist gives you are safe. However, there are over-the-counter whitening products which are not. One such product is whitening toothpaste. These use abrasives to get all your stains off. However, these create tiny scratches on your enamel which actually works against you. The micro-abrasions will pick up stains.
How Teeth Whitening Whitening Affects Your Appearance
Taking off those years of layers of stains makes you look years younger. It’s a very affordable way to give yourself a mini smile makeover.
This blog is brought to you by Des Moines Dentist Dr. Phelan Thomas.