Does tooth whitening decrease gum disease?
On One Hand: Not An Effective SolutionTooth whitening may help your teeth look better, but it won’t decrease your gum disease. In fact, Harvard Medical School warns that tooth whitening products should not be used by people suffering from gum disease. Whitening, or bleaching of the teeth could cause discomfort for people with existing gum disease. More important, there is no reported scientific data suggesting that tooth whitening will decrease or reverse gum disease.On the Other: Some Cosmetic BenefitsGum disease causes plaque and tartar to build up above and below your gum line, according to WebMD.com. The buildup above the gum line can adjust the appearance of your teeth. However, tooth-whitening products could be applied to make the teeth look better, despite the existence of tartar and plaque.Bottom LineTooth whitening is only a cosmetic procedure and cannot decrease gum disease. According to WebMD.com, brushing and flossing is needed to decrease mild gum disease, and advanced gum
