Gum bleaching is how dentists would try to remove gum pigmentation in the past — the keyword there being tried. Using painful lasers, dentists would literally burn away an entire layer of the gum tissue in the hopes of getting rid of the melanocytes. The only problem? This method never worked! In fact, it made things worse by causing significant tooth sensitivity, bleeding, and other problems that resulted in patients just giving up on their smile altogether…
What Is Bleaching?
Gum bleaching is how dentists would try to remove gum pigmentation in the past — the keyword there being tried. Using painful lasers, dentists would literally burn away an entire layer of the gum tissue in the hopes of getting rid of the melanocytes. It’s a procedure that has been largely abandoned by dentists because it can lead to tooth sensitivity and receding gums.
You should avoid gum brightening procedures at all costs. They may seem like a harmless alternative to whitening your teeth, but they are a very serious dental procedure that can have damaging results if not done properly or with proper supervision. If you’re looking for a way to get whiter teeth without risking your health or financial security, here are some less expensive and more natural ways
What Causes Dark Gums?
Pigmentation of the gum tissue is caused by an increase in melanocytes, a type of skin cell, near the gum line. The primary cause of this is exposure to UV rays. Other factors that can lead to gum discoloration are smoking and using certain types of cosmetics or mouthwashes. Research has shown that people with darker skin tones are more susceptible to the effects of UV rays and, thus, may be more likely to have dark gums than those with lighter skin tones.
How Long Does It Take For The Bleaching Process To Work?
It takes anywhere from two to three weeks for the bleaching process to work. Unfortunately, the only way you’ll know if it’s working is by looking at your gum tissue and seeing how much light-pigmented tissue you have. So, if after two weeks your gums are still dark, then you should probably go back to the dentist and ask for a refund. If you’re lucky enough to see some light pigment in your gums after a few weeks, congratulations! The process has worked and all that’s left is maintaining healthy habits like regular brushing and flossing (and maybe even some whitening toothpaste).
Is Bleaching Effective On All Types Of Gum Pigmentation?
Bleaching is not the best treatment for all types of gum pigmentation. If you have a localized spot of gum discoloration, then you may want to consider bleaching that area. However, if you have darker areas that cover a larger area of your gums, then bleaching may not be the best treatment option for you. A much better option would be to see a dentist and discuss other options that are more effective for these types of gum pigmentation.
Can I Use At-Home Bleaching Products Without Risking Injury?
Bleaching is not a safe procedure for teeth, and many dentists in the United States refuse to offer it. In fact, it can cause gum recession and darken teeth over time. Bleaching also has a high risk of damaging the gums. If you want whiter teeth without bleaching, consider using toothpaste with a whitening agent or visiting your dentist to have them apply a bleaching solution to your teeth.
Is Bleaching Safe?
Some dentists are now offering a new procedure, called gum brightening. These treatments use lasers to burn away the pigmentation on the gums. According to Dr. Lisa Brill, laser surgery is just as effective as bleaching but it doesn’t cause tooth sensitivity or gum recession. Plus, it has a much lower risk of infection and can be done in just one visit instead of three weeks’ worth of bleaching appointments. The cost for this procedure ranges from $1,300- $2,000 per session depending on the dentist and whether you need more than one session for your desired results. The total cost will depend on how many sessions you need (usually between 2 and 4) and how many teeth are involved.
Will Bleached Gums Return To Their Original Color If I Stop Bleaching Them?
The American Dental Association (ADA) has cautioned against bleaching as a means of dealing with discolored teeth, and the ADA is not alone in this warning. Dentists across the country are telling people that bleaching will not remove the underlying cause of gum discoloration, which is usually a condition called gingivitis or gum disease. Gingivitis can be treated with good brushing, flossing, and regular trips to the dentist for professional cleanings. The best way to avoid gum pigmentation is to keep your gums healthy by following these simple steps.
Will My Gums Scar From The Bleaching Process?
The process of gum bleaching is a simple one. Dentists use a laser to burn away the melanin, which causes the pigmentation in your gums. Your gums will not scar from this procedure, but they will be red and swollen for some time after it’s completed. The main downside to gum bleaching is that there’s no guarantee that it will work, meaning you may have to undergo this process more than once with no guaranteed results.
