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Is Whitening Toothpaste Safe for Your Gums?

Blonde woman wearing a white shirt smiles and points to her gums

With all the options of toothpaste available today on the market, it can feel difficult to decide which is best for your unique smile. Many brands of whitening toothpaste promise a whiter smile and healthier teeth. But is whitening toothpaste safe and beneficial for your teeth and gums?

Benefits of Whitening Toothpaste

Whitening toothpaste contain abrasives that remove surface stains caused by food and beverages. Depending on the severity of your discoloration, they may make a slight difference in the color of your smile. Many whitening toothpastes also contain fluoride to help combat tooth decay, and help keep bacteria at bay along the gumline. Therefore, certain whitening toothpastes can keep gums healthy if used in moderation and as directed.

Problems with Whitening Toothpaste

The abrasive components in whitening toothpaste are not ideal for those with severe gum disease or tooth sensitivity. There are other varieties of toothpaste specifically designed for patients with these issues. In addition, whitening toothpaste does not remove intrinsic (deep stains) from teeth the way professional whitening can, thus your results may feel lackluster. Keep in mind that some trendy types of whitening toothpastes that boast to be “all-natural” and include ingredients like charcoal have not been proven to be safe for teeth and gums, or even have significant whitening effects. Use caution when experimenting with these types of whitening toothpaste.

Which Toothpaste Is Best for You?

For those with noticeable, deep-set stains on the teeth, a whitening toothpaste most likely won’t deliver the results you deserve. Instead, we recommend asking us about a professional cleaning and our whitening services. We offer in-office whitening and custom take-home trays that deliver dramatic and dazzling results. If you have gum disease, we suggest buying a toothpaste that focuses on fighting plaque, tartar, and gingivitis; and if you have tooth sensitivity, an anti-sensitivity toothpaste would be best for you.

Consult with Our Expert Team!

There are solutions to improve the appearance and health of your smile, and we can help you find them. So if you have deep stains and are ready for a truly whiter smile, contact us today to learn more about our professional teeth whitening services. At your next appointment, we can make recommendations about which toothpaste would be best for your unique dental needs and answer any questions you may have about your gum health.

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