Is whitening toothpaste damaging your teeth? Doctor weighs in
- Replies 18
Our smiles often reflect the life we've lived, and it's natural to want to keep them looking their best.
Whitening toothpaste has become a popular choice for those seeking a brighter smile without the expense of professional treatments.
However, a recent surge in complaints has raised concerns about the safety of some over-the-counter whitening products.
A woman from Adelaide named Hannah Palmer shared an experience that has struck a chord with many Australians.
After a routine visit to the dentist, she was shocked to learn that her enamel was severely damaged.
She quickly attributed this damage to her use of a particular whitening toothpaste.
'This is your sign, throw out that purple toothpaste whitening s***,' she stated.
'I just went to the dentist, and apparently, I've got next to no enamel on my teeth left because I’ve been using it,’ Palmer revealed.
Her story quickly resonated with hundreds who shared their dental woes, from toothaches to unexpected cavities, all seemingly linked to their use of various whitening toothpaste brands.
While some pointed fingers at HiSmile, others mentioned issues with Colgate products.
‘Did it give anyone else mouth ulcers? I’ve never had those before until HiSmile,’ a commenter claimed.
‘The Colgate purple one did the same to me! My teeth are so sensitive, and whenever I eat anything sweet now, I’m in so much pain,’ another shared.
The debate has been fierce, with some defending the products and suggesting that misuse, rather than the products themselves, is to blame.
'It’s not toothpaste. You aren't supposed to use it every day, it’s just whitening paste. Still gotta brush your teeth,' one user argued.
To shed light on the issue, Dr Fadi Yassmin, a spokesperson for the Australian Dental Association (ADA), explained that the composition of whitening toothpaste often includes a small amount of peroxide and abrasive elements designed to remove stains.
However, he cautioned that excessive use could indeed erode enamel.
'If used more excessively, you're likely to take away the enamel,' he stated.
He added: ‘You could find some patients that are using these products are quite keen to get their teeth whitened so end up using too much of it—so it's not the product per se sometimes, just overzealous brushing.’
Dr Yassmin also emphasised the importance of addressing any underlying dental issues, such as sensitivity or gingivitis, before considering cosmetic procedures like whitening.
'Any sort of aesthetic or any cosmetic procedure needs to be [done] amongst healthy, inflammation-free gums,' he advised.
For those considering whitening products, Dr. Yassmin recommended using those approved by a dentist, which have undergone rigorous testing, unlike many over-the-counter options.
'A lot of over-the-counter [whitening products] aren't usually tested, so they sort of pass under the radar,' he warned.
ADA has called for better regulation of dental treatments sold directly to consumers, including whitening kits.
The lack of stringent testing for these products poses a risk to the public, and the ADA believes that legislation should be strengthened to protect consumers from its potential dangers.
If you're considering whitening your teeth, it's crucial to consult with your dentist first. They can assess the condition of your mouth and recommend safe and effective options.
Pursuing a pearly white smile should never come at the cost of your dental health.
If you've experienced any adverse effects from whitening toothpaste or have concerns about your dental care routine, don't hesitate to contact your dentist for professional advice.
Do you have a story or experience with whitening toothpaste that you'd like to share? Let us know in the comments below!
Whitening toothpaste has become a popular choice for those seeking a brighter smile without the expense of professional treatments.
However, a recent surge in complaints has raised concerns about the safety of some over-the-counter whitening products.
A woman from Adelaide named Hannah Palmer shared an experience that has struck a chord with many Australians.
After a routine visit to the dentist, she was shocked to learn that her enamel was severely damaged.
Palmer was shocked to discover that her enamel was severely damaged. Image source: Unsplash
She quickly attributed this damage to her use of a particular whitening toothpaste.
'This is your sign, throw out that purple toothpaste whitening s***,' she stated.
'I just went to the dentist, and apparently, I've got next to no enamel on my teeth left because I’ve been using it,’ Palmer revealed.
Her story quickly resonated with hundreds who shared their dental woes, from toothaches to unexpected cavities, all seemingly linked to their use of various whitening toothpaste brands.
While some pointed fingers at HiSmile, others mentioned issues with Colgate products.
‘Did it give anyone else mouth ulcers? I’ve never had those before until HiSmile,’ a commenter claimed.
‘The Colgate purple one did the same to me! My teeth are so sensitive, and whenever I eat anything sweet now, I’m in so much pain,’ another shared.
The debate has been fierce, with some defending the products and suggesting that misuse, rather than the products themselves, is to blame.
'It’s not toothpaste. You aren't supposed to use it every day, it’s just whitening paste. Still gotta brush your teeth,' one user argued.
To shed light on the issue, Dr Fadi Yassmin, a spokesperson for the Australian Dental Association (ADA), explained that the composition of whitening toothpaste often includes a small amount of peroxide and abrasive elements designed to remove stains.
However, he cautioned that excessive use could indeed erode enamel.
'If used more excessively, you're likely to take away the enamel,' he stated.
He added: ‘You could find some patients that are using these products are quite keen to get their teeth whitened so end up using too much of it—so it's not the product per se sometimes, just overzealous brushing.’
Dr Yassmin also emphasised the importance of addressing any underlying dental issues, such as sensitivity or gingivitis, before considering cosmetic procedures like whitening.
'Any sort of aesthetic or any cosmetic procedure needs to be [done] amongst healthy, inflammation-free gums,' he advised.
For those considering whitening products, Dr. Yassmin recommended using those approved by a dentist, which have undergone rigorous testing, unlike many over-the-counter options.
'A lot of over-the-counter [whitening products] aren't usually tested, so they sort of pass under the radar,' he warned.
ADA has called for better regulation of dental treatments sold directly to consumers, including whitening kits.
The lack of stringent testing for these products poses a risk to the public, and the ADA believes that legislation should be strengthened to protect consumers from its potential dangers.
If you're considering whitening your teeth, it's crucial to consult with your dentist first. They can assess the condition of your mouth and recommend safe and effective options.
Pursuing a pearly white smile should never come at the cost of your dental health.
If you've experienced any adverse effects from whitening toothpaste or have concerns about your dental care routine, don't hesitate to contact your dentist for professional advice.
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per cent guaranteed pure.But only available in Sydney for delivery unfortunately.
I just looked it up and some bottled water has fluoride in it depending where it’s sourced from.
