Teeth Whitening with Cavities

Written by Dr. Brian Harris

November 03, 2023

Teeth whitening with cavities: is it possible? In our expert opinion, it's probably best to get them fixed before you start the teeth whitening process.  

At SNOW, we understand the allure of a radiant smile and the concerns that come with cavities. Teeth whitening with cavities is a topic many grapple with, especially when aiming for that perfect gleam.

Cavities, those tiny imperfections, can influence the whitening process, potentially leading to heightened sensitivity.

In this article, we'll delve deep into why it's essential to address cavities before whitening, how to manage cavities and tooth decay, and the nuances of whitening teeth with fillings. 

Trust in our expertise, backed by years of research and countless satisfied customers.

What this article covers:

Why Should You Fix Cavities Before Teeth Whitening?

Certainly, addressing cavities is a pivotal step before diving into teeth whitening. Teeth whitening treatments, especially those performed by professionals, utilize bleaching chemicals like hydrogen peroxide and hydrogen carbamide.

can you get teeth whitening with cavities

These agents are adept at lifting stains from both the inner and outer surfaces of teeth. However, these chemicals can weaken the enamel and may irritate teeth that have been compromised by decay.

A tooth with a cavity can experience heightened sensitivity or even pain after a whitening session. In extreme cases, the whitening treatment might cause irreversible damage to the tooth.

Moreover, if a tooth is already in the throes of decay, whitening treatments might not be as effective and could exacerbate the damage.

How Do You Deal With Cavities And Tooth Decay?

Addressing cavities is paramount for a painless tooth whitening experience. Composite resins are a prevalent choice for filling cavities. This material can be tailored to match the desired shade of white for the subsequent whitening procedure. Typically, the affected tooth is cleaned thoroughly before being filled with the composite, which has a putty-like consistency. Once applied, it's hardened using a curing light.

For teeth severely affected by decay, more intensive treatments like a root canal might be necessary. This involves purging the soft tissues in the tooth's pulp chamber. However, once these dental concerns are addressed, you're all set for a transformative whitening experience with our SNOW products, right from the comfort of your home.

can you whiten teeth with cavities

Can You Whiten Teeth With Fillings?

Yes, you can whiten teeth that have fillings, but there are some essential considerations to keep in mind. Teeth whitening treatments primarily target natural tooth enamel, and their effectiveness on dental restorations like fillings is different.

Let's delve deeper into the options for whitening teeth, especially when fillings are involved.

SNOW's At-Home Whitening Kit

Our flagship Teeth Whitening Kit is designed to offer a professional-grade whitening experience right from the comfort of your home. The kit is suitable for natural teeth and can be used around dental restorations. However, while it can lighten your natural teeth, it won't change the color of your fillings.

Whitening Strips

Vegan teeth whitening strips are another popular at-home teeth whitening option. These flexible strips coated with a whitening gel can be placed directly onto the teeth. Like our SNOW kit, they primarily target natural tooth enamel. If you have fillings, especially in visible areas, you might notice a color difference post-treatment. Check out our Magic Whitening Strips for a convenient whitening solution.

Whitening Toothpaste

For those looking for a gradual whitening effect, natural teeth whitening products like whitening toothpaste can be a good choice. They contain mild abrasives that help remove surface stains. Our Daily Whitening Toothpaste is formulated to be effective yet gentle on your teeth. However, like other whitening methods, it's more effective on natural teeth than on fillings.

can you whiten tooth decay

SNOW's Safety Tips

While you can certainly whiten teeth with fillings at home, it's crucial to understand that the whitening effect might be uneven. Teeth whitening without peroxide and natural teeth respond differently to whitening agents. Always ensure you're informed before making a decision, and remember, our SNOW customer care is just a call away to guide you through any queries.

Conclusion

Achieving a radiant smile is a desire many share, and understanding the nuances of whitening teeth, especially with cavities and fillings, is crucial.

To reiterate, while teeth with cavities can be whitened, it's essential to address the cavities first for an optimal experience.

Teeth with fillings can also be whitened, but the results may vary compared to natural teeth.

At SNOW, we're dedicated to guiding you on this journey, ensuring you achieve that dazzling smile safely and effectively.

Your teeth whitening routine with SNOW is just a click away!  

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