Temporary and permanent teeth whitening procedures are now readily available. Many teeth-whitening products can be used at home. You can use teeth whitening products for tackling a simple stain from years of drinking coffee or discoloration of the teeth due to aging. But before you pick any of these products, you should be very clear about the benefits and risks of teeth whitening so that you know whether it is worth the expense and effort.

Pros of teeth whitening

1. Brighter smile
When you choose a reliable dental whitening procedure that removes stains on your teeth, your smile appears brighter. This also makes you look fresh and energetic and helps you make a good first impression.

2. Self-confidence 
White and bright teeth can give a boost to your self-confidence. Unsightly stains might sometimes make you feel embarrassed about and smiling or laughing in public. Whitening the teeth can therefore build confidence in many adults.

3. Your teeth look clean 
Most people judge a person’s personal hygiene habits from the appearance of their teeth. Teeth that look clean and white make it evident that you take your personal hygiene very seriously.

4. Makes you feel good
When you look at yourself in the mirror, the way you appear can sometimes affect your mood. This is why it is always a good idea to keep yourself presentable even if you are only going to stay at home. With whiter teeth, your face looks brighter, which can positively influence your mood.

5. Teeth whitening treatments are easy and customizable
Depending on the level of discoloration you have and the budget you are willing to spend, you can choose a suitable teeth whitening procedure. From simple whitening toothpaste options to whitening strips that can be used at home, these procedures are easy, and they deliver long-term results in most cases.

Cons of teeth whitening
While discussing the benefits and risks of teeth whitening, you should understand that most risks are only associated with improper use of the product. As long as you choose a gentle teeth whitening procedure or get it done by your dentist, teeth whitening has more pros than cons.

1. Gum irritation 
Prolonged use of some teeth whitening products might lead to irritated and bleeding gums in a few people. This would mainly be when you choose harsh teeth whitening products for the sake of obtaining faster results.

2. Sensitivity 
Teeth sensitivity is another side effect some people might notice. Most dental whitening procedures caused teeth sensitivity, but this issue often resolves on its own.

With this knowledge about the benefits and risks of teeth whitening, you will be able to compare the many dental whitening products out there. You can always talk to your dentist to understand your dental health before choosing one of these options to restore the natural shine to your teeth.