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A sparkling white smile is becoming a beauty standard nowadays in this reel world, fueled by social media apps, celebrity endorsements and also rising popularity of whitening toothpastes or at-home kits. But is this idea really good or just a cosmetic trend that isn’t fair for your long term oral health? Dr Harleen Gandhi Kalsi, Cosmetic Dentist and Founder of Meraki Dental Studio shares with us whether teeth whitening craze is safe or not:
From weddings to job interviews, people associate white teeth with confidence and hygiene. According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, 96% of adults believe an attractive smile makes a person more appealing. No surprise then that global teeth whitening sales are expected to reach over $8 billion by 2026.
Most whitening products use hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide to break down stains on the enamel. While effective, these bleaching agents aren’t without consequences. Whitening can temporarily open up the enamel pores. This can lead to sensitivity, irritation of the gums, and in some cases, damage to the enamel if used excessively.
OTC strips and gels are convenient but can be risky when misused. Many DIY kits have higher concentrations than what’s actually safe, or people use them too frequently. In contrast, dentist-supervised treatments are tailored to your enamel strength and gum health. They also include protective measures to reduce side effects.
Repeated whitening, especially without breaks, can wear down enamel. This not only increases tooth sensitivity but can also make teeth look more translucent or grey over time — ironically, the opposite of the intended result.
● Using whitening products no more than once every 6 months
● Consulting a dentist before starting any whitening treatment
Everyone deserves a bright smile, but it should not come at the stake of tooth enamel. If done right and in moderation, whitening is not harming. But the first need is for healthy teeth and then is their whitening. Because nobody wants white teeth that have long-term sensitivity or weakened enamel. So despite chasing perfection, check with your dentist if you really require teeth whitening treatment.
