A bright, white smile has long been associated with a well-groomed appearance. But is teeth whitening suitable for everyone? Dentist-therapist Aralbek Tasbulatov explains when the procedure may be appropriate and when it can cause harm.
Who may need teeth whitening
According to Tasbulatov, teeth whitening, like any dental procedure, has specific indications and contraindications.
«One clear indication for teeth whitening is smoker’s teeth — when a person’s teeth have become heavily yellowed,» the dentist said.
The procedure may also be appropriate for patients with pigment spots on their teeth. Another condition is tetracycline staining, which can occur when tetracycline antibiotics are taken during tooth development. This can cause permanent discoloration of the teeth.
Contraindications
Many people undergo teeth whitening for cosmetic reasons rather than on a dentist’s recommendation. However, the procedure is not suitable for everyone and has several contraindications.
«First, teeth should not be whitened in people who have multiple cavities, complications from tooth decay or gum disease, as well as those who have veneers, crowns or fillings on their front teeth,» Tasbulatov said.
The dentist noted that whitening changes the color of natural tooth enamel through the use of a whitening agent. Dental restorations such as fillings, crowns and veneers do not change color during the procedure.
«As a result, natural teeth can become lighter while restorations retain their original color, creating a visible difference,» he explained.
Tasbulatov also cautioned that teeth whitening should be avoided by pregnant women and children under the age of 18.
What to consider before whitening
A professional dental examination is therefore important before undergoing whitening. A dentist can identify cavities, gum disease and existing dental restorations and determine whether whitening is appropriate.
