Even though teeth whitening is considered as a generally safe procedure, the following list of teeth whitening side effects should be considered before you decide to whiten your teeth.

Most people who use teeth whitening products experience little or no effects at all and are pleased with the results, but other people could develop certain reactions to products used in the process.

Darkening of the teeth could occur due to the food we eat, alcohol, cigarette smoking and several other factors. This causes the teeth to lose its natural white colour.

Dr Andre Kwasi Kumah, a doctor and owner of Eden Family Hospital in Accra tells Myjoyonline.com the side effects of teeth whitening could be varied. 

Soft tissue irritation

Soft tissue irritation may occur if the whitening solution is exposed to the gum tissue during the whitening process. When this happens the tooth becomes white immediately after it comes into contact with the whitening solution. A prolonged exposure to teeth whitening products (gels or solution) on the gum tissue may also result in inflammation and redness of the areas affected by the procedure. In extreme cases, soft tissue irritation from whitening of teeth could be bleeding and pain in the gum.

Tooth sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is usually noticed during the process of whitening and a period after the process. People with previous history of teeth sensitivity should consult a dentist for advice on what teeth whitening products are appropriate before the process. The dentist may also prescribe a list of products which may help alleviate the sensitivity before the process.

Unfavorable results

The initial shade of your teeth may affect results achieved from tooth whitening, and this may not be favourable. People with heavy stains or internal tooth discolouration may not notice any changes in the shade of their teeth after whitening. A gray or translucent appearance may develop when people whiten their teeth. Often, this is different from the creamy white shade that may appear after teeth whitening.

Before you whiten your teeth it is advisable to consult a dentist. He or she will access your teeth and see if you are an eligible candidate for a whitening procedure. Teeth whitening if not done well could cause over whitening which may affect the deeper elements of the teeth causing it to wear off faster than normal.