Having a small gum pocket can sometimes make people hesitant about getting their teeth whitened. They may wonder, “Do you think I’ll be able to get my teeth whitened with a small gum pocket?” The good news is that in most cases, having a small gum pocket should not prevent you from being able to whiten your teeth.
Some patients report experiencing “unbearable” pain after whitening their teeth. If you have sensitive teeth or have experienced sensitivity in the past, it’s a good idea to speak to your dentist about your concerns. They may be able to administer topical pain relief to manage any pain you experience after whitening. Sensodyne, Oral B, Crest, and Colgate all offer a widely available range of toothpastes formulated specifically to whiten teeth.
Understanding Gum Pockets
Gum pockets are spaces between the teeth and gums where bacteria can build up and cause inflammation. These pockets can be measured by your dentist during a routine check-up. A small gum pocket typically ranges from 1 to 3 millimeters in depth. If your gum pocket is larger than 3 millimeters, it may indicate gum disease and require treatment before proceeding with teeth whitening.
If you decide to use an over-the-counter teeth whitening product, follow the directions carefully. You want to make sure that you are using enough of the product so that it will be effective but not too much that it will damage your enamel. You will also want to avoid products with high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide, which can irritate your gums and lead to more severe health problems if misused. Getting your teeth whitened repeatedly or using tooth whitening kits for longer than the recommended duration can result in permanent damage to your tooth enamel, 2019 research suggests.
Teeth Whitening with a Small Gum Pocket
For example, if they tell you to apply a gel for 15 minutes, try it for five minutes first and see how your teeth feel. You can read our full guide to the best whitening toothpastes for more detailed information. Many brands have the appeal of being peroxide-free, but some still rely on peroxide to whiten teeth. Strips usually need to be applied for around 30 minutes and then removed, but it’s also possible to buy strips that require shorter wear times.
The best teeth whitening method for you will depend first on what type of staining you are dealing with — whether it is intrinsic or extrinsic, on the surface or in the enamel. When carried out by trained hands tooth whitening should not be something to be scared of as it has very minor side effects, if any at all. Some people may have some minor sensitivity or discomfort around the gums but these are usually temporary and will disappear within a few days of treatment.
Teeth whitening treatments are generally safe for individuals with small gum pockets. However, it is important to consult with your dentist before starting any whitening procedures. Your dentist will assess the health of your gums and recommend the best course of action for achieving a brighter smile without causing harm to your gums.
This leaves behind permanent white spots or patches of discoloration on the teeth. To prevent white spots on the teeth, it’s important to practice good dental hygiene. You should also floss nightly and use an electric toothbrush designed to reduce plaque buildup.
You may see whitening advertised by local beauty salons or mobile whitening services, but these are not trained dental professionals. Keep in mind that with any of these non-professional bleaching gel kits, there is a greater risk of the bleaching gel leaking out and burning or blistering other parts of your mouth. It’s also harder to get even coverage of the gel if your mouthpiece isn’t tight.
In conclusion, having a small gum pocket should not necessarily prevent you from getting your teeth whitened. By consulting with your dentist and following their recommendations, you can safely improve the appearance of your smile while maintaining healthy gums. So, if you’re wondering, “Do you think I’ll be able to get my teeth whitened with a small gum pocket?” the answer is likely yes!
