Can People with Tooth Decay Get Teeth Whitening Treatments

This article goes over how teeth whitening treatments can lead to complications when you have teeth that have been damaged by tooth decay. from South Florida Dental Arts in Miami, FLTooth decay and teeth whitening treatments simply do not mix. The bleaching agents used for the treatment weaken enamel. That can lead to discomfort and damage to teeth structures if the patient has existing issues like cavities. If the patient’s teeth are healthy, the procedure only leads to temporary increased teeth sensitivity that should go away within a few days. Teeth whitening treatments have gained a lot of popularity in recent years due to how drastically they can enhance the way a person’s smile looks.

Exploring why teeth whitening treatments should not be performed on decayed teeth

Teeth whitening treatments are done using compounds with bleaching properties like hydrogen peroxide and hydrogen carbamide. These chemicals penetrate past enamel into the dentin, removing stains from deep within teeth and their exterior. The process puts a lot of strain on the outer protective layer of teeth known as the enamel and the result is often increased teeth sensitivity that subsides in a couple of days.

When a tooth has already been damaged, the bleaching agent used for whitening treatments can get into the tooth’s pulp, leading to irritation, pain, and discomfort. In some cases, permanent damage might be done to teeth structures.

The solution

Dentists usually recommend fixing tooth decay before proceeding with whitening treatments. Options that might be recommended to patients with decayed teeth who are interested in whitening treatments include:

  • Fillings: Silver amalgam fillings are the traditional way of addressing tooth decay and they remain the most affordable option. However, this approach is not the most aesthetically pleasing and the patient might end up with pearly white teeth with dark spots on their biting surfaces.
  • Composite bonding: This is typically a more appropriate way to fill up cavities and other damage caused by tooth decay. The composite can be color-matched with the shade of white being targeted for their teeth whitening treatment, so it does not ruin the way the person’s smile looks.
  • Cosmetic restorations: A dentist might recommend dental crowns and other restorations like onlays and inlays when there is severe damage to the patient’s teeth. Whitening treatments have no effect on restorations like crowns so dentists often prefer to install them after whitening their patients’ teeth. A temporary solution like fillings can be used to protect the patient’s teeth for the whitening procedure.

Once all existing dental issues the patient is dealing with have been addressed, preparations can begin for the patient’s teeth whitening treatment. Customized mouth trays are typically used for professional whitening treatments, so an impression of the patient’s mouth is taken. This can be done by having the person bite into a mold or by making a model of their teeth with digital images. The mold or data is sent to a lab that makes mouth trays. It should be ready in two weeks so the patient can start their whitening treatments.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Teeth Whitening in Miami, FL

Explore teeth whitening

Teeth whitening treatments can make your teeth whiter than they ever have been. Call or stop by our Miami clinic to learn more about the process.

Request an appointment or call South Florida Dental Arts at 305-230-4041 for an appointment in our Miami office.

Recent Posts

What Type Of Stains Can Teeth Whitening Treatments Remove

Teeth whitening can remove most mild to moderate teeth stains that are known as extrinsic teeth stains. However, they may not be able to remove more severe stains that are known as intrinsic. This review discusses the types of stains that can and cannot be removed through teeth whitening treatment. The two main types of…

Side Effects Of Teeth Whitening Treatments

The potential side effects of teeth whitening include teeth sensitivity, gum irritation, and ineffective results. However, most patients do not experience any notable side effects from professional teeth whitening, as the dentist can monitor the process and perform treatment in a way that minimizes risk.Dentists take every precaution possible to minimize the risk of teeth…

Can People With Gum Disease Get Teeth Whitening Treatments

Dentists typically recommend delaying teeth whitening treatments when you are struggling with gum disease. Gum disease is a condition that is caused by a bacterial infection of gum tissues. This leads to an immune system response, causing irritation and inflammation. The result is damage to teeth structures and the tissues that hold them in place.Gum…

Recent Posts

The Benefits Of Seeing A Gentle Dentist For Routine Dental Care

The Benefits Of Seeing A Gentle Dentist For Routine Dental Care

A gentle dentist prioritizes patient comfort, helping to ensure that dental visits are stress-free and positive experiences. This approach encourages consistent care and helps individuals of all ages feel more relaxed in the dentist's chair. A gentle dentist helps patients stay at ease while they get the dental care they need.A gentle dentist focuses on…

Choose A Cosmetic Dentist For Cosmetic Dentistry Services

Choose A Cosmetic Dentist For Cosmetic Dentistry Services

Cosmetic dentistry services have become increasingly popular in recent years. From professional teeth whitening to dental veneers, cosmetic dentists specialize in improving the appearance of your teeth and smile. Here are five reasons to choose a cosmetic dentist for your cosmetic dentistry services.Cosmetic dentists undergo additional training beyond dental school. During this education, they focus…