Can Teeth Be Too White?

Whitening teeth has become quite the craze in recent years. With easily accessible and varied forms of whitening out there, anyone can take their smile from dull to dazzling in a matter of a few sessions. But is it good for you? Can your teeth be too white? At my dental office in Charlottesville, we’re here to clear up a few whitening questions and make sure all our patients exercise caution in their quest for a whiter smile.

Smile whitening is one of the most requested cosmetic dentistry procedures at dental offices across the nation. And that doesn’t include those who forego the dentist and whiten on their own. The whitening mania has brighter, whiter smiles popping up all over the place, and we’re never ones to discount a beautiful grin. But we need to warn you: don’t overdo it.

A little is good, a lot isn’t better.

A good rule of thumb to follow for a natural looking white smile is to aim to match the whites of your eyes. But many times, whitening becomes almost addictive, and people tend to use whitening in excess. While most whitening agents are safe, serious problems can occur when whitening becomes too much of a habit. Enamel may weaken and leave you more susceptible to decay, cavities, and sensitivity. Additionally, desired results of a white smile may take an opposite turn and teeth may appear translucent or discolored.

Things to Consider

• Talk it Out. We highly recommend talking with your dentist in Charlottesville before starting a whitening treatment. Some stains may not be easily removed through an over-the-counter treatment and some problems can’t be fixed through whitening alone. Talking with your dental professional is a great first step.

• Follow Directions. If you choose to use an over-the-counter product, please read and follow the directions. Don’t leave the whitening gel on longer than recommended. Strips and trays tend to be one-size-fits-all, which can cause the whitening ingredients to come in contact with gums. If left on too long, gums can become irritated and lead to more serious dental concerns.

• White isn’t Necessarily Healthy. We tend to whiten to get a healthier looking smile, but just because a smile is white doesn’t mean it’s healthy. Make sure to keep up with regular dental appointments even if your grin is pearly white.

If you’re looking to get your smile a bit more whiter, call my Charlottesville dental office. A visit with us prior to embarking on a whitening regimen can help determine the best whitening treatment for you and together we can determine your ultimate shade of white.

Welcoming patients from Charlottesville, Earlysville, and Ruckersville.

About The Author

Dr. Jack T. Kayton

Dr. Jack T. Kayton has served families in Charlottesville and surrounding areas since 1994 through his general and family dentistry private practice. Believing that everyone deserves quality dental care, he donates his time to worthy causes. He volunteers at the Donated Dental Service and the Charlottesville Free Clinic. His professional affiliations include the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and the Academy of General Dentistry, among others.

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