Dentists are worried that teenagers are putting their teeth and health at risk by trying dangerous do-it-yourself (DIY) teeth-whitening techniques that are advertised on the Internet.

Health professionals have revealed that such whiteners can cause permanent damage to teeth according to the latest reports that have been published.

These teeth whitening products mainly contain Sodium bicarbonate and hydrogen peroxide as their main ingredients in these mix-it-yourself remedies. Baking powder has been used for years in teeth cleaning because of the lightly abrasive effect and oxygenation but in the hands of children these substances can be dangerous. This has been noted by Australian Dental Association Queensland branch president Dr Brad Wright.

Children tend to mix up quantities of chemicals and apply them for long periods and put themselves at greater risk of eroding their tooth enamel, damaging gums and increasing the risks of infection. It is such a paradox that the erosion of the teeth may actually go on to expose the yellow-coloured dentin that lies beneath the enamel and make the teeth look more discolored and yellow.

Therein, the sensitive dentine can become exposed and gums can become infected. Bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream. Stomach problems may also occur if any bleaching agent is swallowed and a host of other problems can manifest it from that.

Teeth whitening came under inspection last week when a routine teeth-whitening procedure at an Adelaide beauty salon left a woman bruised, blistered and unable to brush her teeth for a month. The case has prompted warnings from dental authorities about untrained retailers offering cheap procedures to lure customers to buy them without realizing the harm that it can cause them.