IS MY WHITENING TOOTHPASTE SAFE? YOUR SARASOTA DENTIST EXPLAINS

IS MY WHITENING TOOTHPASTE SAFE? YOUR SARASOTA DENTIST EXPLAINS

Jan 23, 2018

Whitening toothpaste can be an effective way to brighten your smile or maintain your investment in a professional whitening treatment. However, there has been a lot of controversy over the years about whether or not whitening toothpastes are safe to use on a daily basis mainly because of their prime ingredient, which is hydrogen peroxide. Your Sarasota dentist explains why your whitening toothpaste is not only safe, but also beneficial for your smile.

Why Are My Teeth Discolored?

It’s natural for your teeth to lose a bit of their luster as you age. The foods that we eat or medications we take can also affect the bright white color of our teeth. Some foods and beverages to be aware of are:

  • Coffee, tea, and red wine
  • Soy sauce and curries
  • Berries such as raspberries
  • Dark colas

Many patients turn to a teeth whitening system or whitening toothpaste as a way to combat stains or discoloration.

Safety First

Hydrogen peroxide has long been used as a bleaching agent. Combined with the other ingredients in toothpaste it can also help to lighten tooth enamel that has become yellow or discolored. Because it’s delivered in small doses and mixed with other ingredients, it’s safe for your teeth.

Are There Side Effects When You Use Whitening Toothpaste?

The most common side effect of whitening toothpaste is typically tooth sensitivity. This is usually very minor and doesn’t last long.

Today’s whitening toothpastes combine fluoride with hydrogen peroxide as standard ingredients. Fluoride helps to minimize any sensitivity that whitening products may cause since it helps to remineralize your tooth enamel. Most professional teeth whitening treatments in Sarasota also end with fluoride treatment to reduce sensitivity.

If you are thinking about whitening your teeth, be sure to discuss with your dentist in Sarasota whether an in-office whitening treatment or take-home whitening system would be the best option for brightening your smile. They can also give you recommendations for the best whitening toothpaste for your needs.

About Tarpon Shores Dental

Tarpon Shores Dental combines the skills and talents of three outstanding dentists. With three convenient locations in St. Armands, Venice, and Englewood, we’re offering high quality and comprehensive dental care to patients in many FL communities.

If you would like to contact Tarpon Shores Dental, we can be reached by calling 941-488-7910, or online through our website.