Teeth whitening has become a standard part of oral hygiene. There are several ways to get the desired results. Some prefer easy-to-use home gels for quick stain removal. Others may book an appointment to get a professional cleaning and whitening done at the local dentist. These days the procedure has also become quite affordable. Here are some common benefits and risks that you must know before exploring options.

1. Pros of teeth whitening
There are some benefits of getting the procedure done under proper supervision. These include:

• Boosts self-esteem
  Professional teeth whitening will help restore that confident smile and boost your self-esteem as you no longer have to worry about discoloration. A confident smile will also draw positive attention.
• Better oral hygiene
  Thorough cleaning and whitening can help remove stains and completely clean your molars. This greatly reduces the risk of bacterial infections that can trigger associated health complications.
• Reliable when done professionally
  Professional teeth whitening is safe and more reliable when done at the dentist. You will walk away with a long-lasting smile.
• Custom treatments
  Your local dentist will know the exact type of chemical or gel base that is suitable for the procedure after examining your dental records.
• Faster when done professionally
  The procedure is quicker when done at the dentist. In fact, most dentists can finish the task within an hour. Some dental insurance plans may also cover the cost of such cosmetic procedures, so it pays to go to a qualified professional.

2. Cons of teeth whitening
Chemical procedures are not free of risks, especially when it comes to your teeth. Some of the risks include:

• Teeth sensitivity
  Whitening may overexpose the nerves on the dentin due to the erosion of the outer enamel. This can increase tooth sensitivity, especially while consuming hot and cold foods and beverages.
• Uneven whitening
  If not done correctly, the procedure can result in an uneven layer of white and off-white molars. The risk of this is high when you use teeth whitening gels at home without proper supervision.
• Ingestion of chemicals
  Even if you are extremely careful, there is always the added risk of accidentally ingesting some of these chemicals. Improper use can also lead to premature wear and tear of the molars.
• Tooth decay or damage
  If done on an already sensitive tooth, teeth whitening can cause the enamel to peel off and expose the softer dentin. This further increases the chances of tooth decay and damage as the dentin is more exposed to bacterial growth.
• Gum irritation
  The chemicals can also trigger gum irritation and, in some cases, cause an allergic reaction. This is why you must consult with a dentist before exploring teeth whitening options.