Health

Gum Bleaching – Is It Really Worth The Pain?

Last Updated on March 9, 2024 by Jawad Ali

Gum bleaching has been around for decades, but it’s really only become popular in the last few years. This cosmetic procedure was originally performed by dentists who would literally burn away your gum tissue to expose the melanocytes that produce pigmentation and then use lasers to zap those melanocytes so that they wouldn’t produce pigment anymore. The process was generally painful, had mixed results, and sometimes caused side effects like inflammation, bleeding, and tooth sensitivity. Nowadays, there’s an easier way to get rid of dark gum coloration.

Don’t Use Home Kits
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 (which produce… (see bio)

Avoid Bleaching Your Gums if Not Necessary
At best, gum bleaching is an incredibly uncomfortable procedure. At worst, it’s incredibly painful and dangerous. Melanocytes are known to create melanin in large amounts when under distress or attack — which seems to be exactly what happens when you have your gums bleached. This means that your dentist could essentially burn away a layer of tissue from your gums! If you’re looking for cosmetic dentistry in Los Angeles, consider finding a better way to whiten your smile; teeth whitening and veneers are much safer and more effective options!

What Causes Gum Pigmentation?
The easiest way to get rid of gum blemishes is just not to have them in the first place. Preventative measures include flossing daily, brushing twice a day and making sure you see your dentist at least twice a year for routine cleanings. Depending on your dentist’s advice, you may also need bi-annual professional gum bleaching treatments. Some dentists have special ways to remove stains from deeper within gums; ask around if that is something that can be done in your area.

How Can I Prevent It From Happening Again?
If you’ve been bleached and ended up with a black lip, what’s important to know is that you can’t get bleached again for six months. This gives your gums a chance to heal. Your dentist will be able to tell you exactly how long it’ll be before you can get your pearly whites treated again; in some cases, getting gum bleaching done at all will mean waiting until next year. If going one whole year without showing off your smile sounds like torture, don’t worry — there are plenty of ways to make your teeth appear whiter without risking injury or further damage.

Olivia Rodriguez

Olivia Rodriguez is a registered dietitian and health coach with a passion for helping people lead healthier lives. With over 8 years of experience in the field, Olivia has worked with individuals and families to develop personalized nutrition and wellness plans that promote optimal health and well-being. She is a frequent contributor to health and wellness publications and has written extensively on topics such as plant-based nutrition, weight management, and chronic disease prevention. Olivia believes that good nutrition is the foundation of a healthy lifestyle, and her mission is to help people make sustainable changes that improve their health and happiness. When she's not working with clients or writing, Olivia enjoys practicing yoga, hiking, and exploring new healthy food options.

Related Articles

Check Also
Close
Back to top button