The whitening lie: Experts reveal the truth behind spa salon teeth whitening

Health experts have warned Nigerians to avoid teeth whitening procedures at spas, salons, and beauty parlours.

They cautioned that unregulated whitening treatments could lead to severe oral health risks, including gum irritation and enamel damage.

According to report, oral health specialists noted that many beauty parlours use unsafe and ineffective whitening products.

Dr. Tolulase Yemitan, an Associate Professor and Consultant Orthodontist at LASUCOM/LASUTH, confirmed that professional teeth whitening is generally safe.

However, she warned that common side effects include tooth sensitivity, gum irritation, and potential enamel erosion.

She explained that overuse or misuse of whitening products could increase the risk of cavities and damage dental restorations.

“Misfitted whitening trays can irritate the gums, while excessive bleaching erodes enamel, increasing tooth sensitivity,” Yemitan stated.

She also cautioned against using household chemicals like bleach or hydrogen peroxide for whitening, citing severe oral tissue damage.

“Some individuals opt for whitening treatments from unregulated providers, which poses serious health risks,” she added.

The orthodontist emphasized the importance of seeking whitening procedures from licensed dental professionals.

“It’s safer to consult a dentist before whitening your teeth, especially if you have pre-existing dental conditions,” she advised.

Dr. Adebiyi Farouk, another dental expert, also warned that frequent whitening procedures could make teeth more sensitive.

He noted that untrained personnel at salons often use harmful products that are not meant for dental use.

“Professional teeth whitening is safe, but problems arise when people seek treatments from unqualified beauty salons,” Farouk said.

He warned that whitening too frequently—every two or three months—could strip enamel and irritate the nerves.

“The more often you whiten, the more sensitive your teeth become, making it harder to manage discomfort,” he explained.

According to him, whitening should be done every 5–10 months, depending on individual dental health conditions.

Farouk added that in countries with lower dental awareness, people tend to overuse whitening products, causing more harm.

Both experts urged Nigerians to use whitening products only under a dentist’s supervision to prevent oral health complications.

They advised the public to prioritize dental consultations before undergoing any whitening procedure to ensure safety and effectiveness.

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