There is no contraindication to tooth whitening: it’s considered to be a safe procedure for all adult teeth. However, there are a lot of factors that need to be taken into consideration before it’s done. It is important to figure out first that will teeth whitening work for you?
Do Your Teeth Really Need Whitening?
Sometimes teeth can be made to look brighter just by having a really good professional cleaning. If the teeth look darker because they have a layer of plaque or tartar on their surface, removal of this surface stain may make the teeth look much brighter.
It’s also possible that what is making your teeth appear darker is a type of staining that CAN’T be improved with whitening. In this case, Dr. Goyal will recommend other methods of achieving the result you are looking for.
Is There Active Dental Disease?
Whitening can’t be done in the presence of active dental disease: all active diseases must be treated before teeth whitening can begin.
Are Your Teeth Sensitive?
If your teeth are very sensitive then you’ll need to be aware that there is a chance that the sensitivity could flare up and become extremely uncomfortable following a whitening procedure of any kind.
Fortunately, there are things you can do to reduce the likelihood of developing more sensitivity. If you have a history of sensitivity, or if Dr Goyal notices signs that suggest your teeth will develop significant sensitivity during treatment, she will recommend an approach to whiten designed to counteract the sensitivity during treatment.
Do You Have Old Tooth-Coloured Fillings, Crowns and Bridges?
The presence of old tooth-coloured fillings, crowns and bridges must be taken into account, because these don’t change colour when the whitening agent is applied to them. Following whitening, old fillings and crowns generally need to be replaced in order to achieve a more uniform colour: otherwise, their presence will be visible due to the contrast in colour.
Are You Pregnant Or Breastfeeding?
We recommend that you delay whitening until after your baby is weaned.
Learn more about teeth whitening during pregnancy: Can You Have Teeth Whitened During Pregnancy?
This is a major reason our experienced Dentists in Woden suggest a Pre-Whitening Consultation to examine the teeth, gums and smile and to discuss the wishes of each individual.