One of the common questions amongst patients is; can I get my teeth whitened if I am prone to cavities? Teeth whitening is one of the more popular cosmetic treatments used to improve the aesthetic appearance of one’s smile. It is an effective form of treatment to reduce discolouration and restore your confidence.
Although, teeth whitening as a treatment is advertised to patients who have no adverse oral health conditions or concerns. If you’re considering teeth whitening treatment but you are prone to cavities, or you have untreated cavities, the bleaching chemicals such as hydrogen peroxide that is used to whiten teeth can irritate the tooth with a cavity.
Therefore, the answer to the question is No. If you have a cavity, you should not whiten your teeth.
Why?
Firstly, cavities do not work well with whitening gels. The bleach that is used for teeth whitening treatments can cause irritation and sensitivity. If a tooth is damaged with a cavity, this increases the risk of your tooth becoming further damaged.
Although, this does not mean that those with a cavity are no longer viable for teeth whitening. It is recommended that the cavity is treated first, notably with dental filling treatment before considering teeth whitening treatment.
If you’re a cavity patient and are seeking remedies to get rid of cavities, follow these steps to keep your teeth safe.
Reduce Sugar Intake
Sugar is the key culprit for cavities to form on your teeth. It is highly acidic and is a bad magnet for bacteria. The bacteria feed on the sugar you consume. The cavity cannot be resolved by simply brushing and flossing teeth. Reducing your sugar intake is one of the vital steps you’d need to take. Read here to learn more about how sugar damages teeth.
Dental Fillings
The most common form of treatment to treat a cavity is a dental filling. Dentists fill the cavity to seal the hole and to restore proper functioning of your tooth. A filling can last for many years. Although, this depends on your dental hygiene and how well you look after the filling.
Crowns
For the tooth that’s extensively decayed, a custom-fitted dental crown can be administered. The dentist drills away at the decayed area to ensure the crown fits comfortably. This will protect the tooth from further damage, and you’ll be required to overhaul your dental hygiene to keep your natural tooth protected.
Brush and Floss
Continue to brush and floss twice a day. Consistent brushing and flossing have proven to reduce the chance of cavity. It is a basic step of oral hygiene but it is the most important.
Fluoride Toothpaste
Whilst following a good oral hygiene routine, decay can be reversed or reduced with fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride toothpaste strengthens your enamel and is also highly recommended by our Wollongong dentist to use when brushing teeth.
Cavities aren’t just an inconvenience that will go away. When cavities form, you must visit the dentist at the earliest opportunity. We also have an aticle on the teeth whitening procedure to educate you in detail.
If you have a cavity, contact us at Wollongong Dental today. Our Wollongong and Fairy Meadow Dental care is worth smiling about, and we’re motivated to deliver healthy and happy smiles. If this is what you’re looking for, contact us now and book an appointment with us.
Dr. Ritesh Barua, a highly skilled dentist in Wollongong, graduated with Honours in 2005. With expertise in orthodontics, implants, and sleep apnoea, he stays updated on dental advancements to provide exceptional care. Dr. Ritesh Barua is dedicated to his patients’ well-being and has worked in private practice in the Illawarra since 2010.
