When most people think of tooth bleaching, they think “whiter teeth.” Well, of course! However, did you know that there are other benefits associated with tooth lightening … or what is commonly called tooth “whitening”?
Over 20 years ago when tooth “whitening” was just starting up, one of the things I immediately noticed in patients who did this “whitening” was that there gum tissue became much healthier. Was it a coincidence? Were they just brushing better now because they wanted their teeth to look better? What was it?
As I thought on it, the answer became obvious: it was the peroxides in the gel that were killing the bacteria that caused the gum inflammation.
I never thought too much more about it until I read a study where older adults in nursing homes were fitted with bleaching trays and bleached their teeth a few times a week. The researchers weren’t really looking for whiter teeth – they wanted to see if it would improve the health of the people’s mouth. Of course, it did!
Watch the following video:
So if you think you need that extra boost to keep your gums healthier and were thinking of a way to brighten your smile, tooth bleaching is worth your consideration!