Does teeth whitening damage enamel?
In short
No. Professional teeth whitening carried out and supervised by a dentist does not damage enamel. The gel acts on the pigments that darken the tooth without altering the mineral structure of the enamel. The most common side effect is temporary sensitivity, which usually fades on its own and can be reduced with specific products.
What happens to your enamel during whitening
Whitening gel contains hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These substances pass through the enamel, reach the dentine and break down the coloured molecules responsible for yellowing, turning them into colourless compounds. The mineral crystals that make up the enamel are not affected.
Straight after the session the enamel is slightly dehydrated and picks up pigments more easily: this is a temporary state, not damage. That is why remineralising or fluoride gels are often applied at the end of treatment.
Is teeth whitening safe?
Yes, when it is done after a check-up and with professional products dosed by the dentist. A few precautions make it even safer:
- a preliminary check to rule out decay, leaking fillings or inflamed gums;
- protecting the gums with an insulating barrier before the gel is applied;
- application times and concentrations chosen to suit your enamel;
- checking the result and any sensitivity over the following days.
It is a different story with products used without supervision, or with abrasive and acidic remedies, which can wear enamel away. We cover this in our FAQ on how to whiten your teeth at home.
When it is not recommended
Whitening is usually postponed or avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding, if your teeth are already very sensitive, if there is decay or leakage that needs treating, or if the gums have receded a lot and the roots are exposed.
Does teeth whitening cause sensitivity?
It can, and it is the most frequent side effect. It feels like a brief, sharp twinge with cold or heat, sometimes even at rest. In most cases it is temporary and goes away by itself within a few hours or a few days.
To reduce it, the dentist may suggest a desensitising toothpaste in the weeks beforehand, use pH-controlled gels and apply fluoride or calcium phosphate at the end of the session. If the sensitivity is intense or lasts more than a few days, contact the clinic.
You can see how professional teeth whitening works on the dedicated page, while the article on how teeth whitening works goes into the technical details.
If you are worried your teeth may be too sensitive, the most useful step is an assessment visit at our clinic in Via Cesare Pavese 135, in the EUR district: the dentist will check your enamel and gums and tell you whether the treatment is right for you.
