Can I Whiten My Teeth Even If I Have Cavities?

If you’re like most people, you want a whiter smile. Not only does it help with your confidence, but it also provides a more youthful appearance. With so many available products on the market these days, you might assume teeth whitening in Sarasota is an easy DIY solution you can perform at home. However, have you considered whether your teeth are healthy enough to undergo this cosmetic process? If you have cavities or dental decay of any kind, a local dentist explains why you’ll want to wait before rushing to brighten your teeth.

The Dangers of Whitening Decayed Teeth

If you know much about the whitening process, you know that most bleaching gels contain hydrogen peroxide. Designed to penetrate the tooth enamel and blast away stains and discoloration, it is highly effective. However, when used on teeth with cavities and severe decay, it can spell disaster. Here’s why:

Healthy pearly whites often experience minor sensitivity when undergoing professional teeth whitening in Sarasota. When cavities are present, the bleaching agent can actively irritate your tooth, causing it to become permanently damaged if you’re not careful. The same can be said for tooth decay, only you may experience days of significant pain and sensitivity.

How to Achieve a Brighter Smile Safely

While you may not want to schedule an appointment with your dentist before trying out the latest whitening product at home, you will find it is well worth the time and money. Your cosmetic dentist in Sarasota understands the impact of teeth whitening and your oral health. If you have cavities or tooth decay, it is necessary that you have them filled and/or protected with custom restorations. This will not only ensure that your damaged teeth are properly treated but also improve your dental health in the long run.

Once you’ve received your tooth-colored filling or dental crown, you can discuss the potential for teeth whitening. However, you should know that this type of cosmetic treatment will not be effective on these particular teeth. You’ll want to make sure to talk to your dentist about what you can do to ensure that your complete smile is the same color to avoid one or two visible teeth standing out among the rest.

Taking care of any decay or cavities before whitening your teeth will prove beneficial in the end. Not only will you walk away with a healthier smile, but you can minimize your risk for sensitivity and pain by first seeking professional, restorative help.

About the Author
Dr. Warren Hoffman is a dentist in Sarasota who received his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in Baltimore, MD. He then went on to complete an externship during his senior year, providing dental services to stationed members of the United States Coast Guard in Honolulu, Hawaii. At Parkway Ridge Dental, he and his team want you to have a beautiful, healthy smile, which is why he offers teeth whitening to interested patients. Contact us at (941) 358-8830 to schedule a consultation to learn if you need preliminary treatment before undergoing cosmetic dentistry.