Teeth WhiteningIf you're thinking about whitening your teeth, you'd be joining the 100 million Americans who have tried a dental bleaching product or procedure. Needless to say, whitening now leads the cosmetic industry; the products are easily obtained and very affordable. But are they safe? Because the dentists at Carey & Aylward in Westland know that it's important to make an informed decision about your health, here are some facts about the safety of dental whitening.

More isn't better

It may seem like a good idea to extend the time you wear whitening strips or trays to achieve a brighter smile in faster time. However, your Westland dentist advises against going "off-label" for several reasons.

First, the overuse of whitening chemicals can actually bring on the opposite effect - your teeth can become mottled and unevenly colored if the trays or strips are left in place too long. They can even permanently dull the finish on your enamel.

Leaving whitening products on longer than instructed can also have painful consequences. The gum tissue can become very irritated from exposure to the chemicals. If the enamel is compromised, the teeth can become extremely sensitive to hot and cold stimuli (coffee, ice cream, and so on). If you have an untreated cavity or fracture, the whitening chemicals can edge into these spaces, potentially causing internal nerve damage.

Expert opinion

It may ease your mind to know that the American Dental Association has placed their Seal of Acceptance on many whitening systems and procedures, including some that can be purchased at pharmacies or grocery stores. However, these industry experts caution that a dental professional should be consulted before beginning any treatment. Checking for the ADA's seal and talking with your southeastern Michigan dentist about the product will help put you on the right track for whiter teeth.

Leave it to the pros

For those who want quick but safe results, a visit to your Westland dental office would be your best option. In-office whitening treatments usually only take as long as a lunch break - between 30 and 60 minutes. Upon completion, the results are immediately visible. In-office whitening can last up to a year, much longer than over-the-counter systems, and with your dentist at the helm, your safety and satisfaction is the ultimate goal.

Don't let discolored teeth keep you from smiling. Contact the team at Carey & Aylward DDS in Westland today for a consultation.


Westland, MI Dentist Carey & Aylward, DDS, PC
32540 Warren Road Westland, MI 48185 (734) 425-9130 Dentist in Westland, MI Call For Pricing Options