Obsession with theeth whitening could be a sign of BDD says leading dentist
A leading cosmetic dentist has warned that patients who have an obsession with white teeth could be suffering from a form body dysmorphia.
Speaking to dentistry.co.uk, Dr Ken Harris warned that a preoccupation with the colour of teeth is commonly recognised as a symptom of Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) and that those desperate for “bright white teeth” should steer clear of using home treatments or the excessive use of whitening toothpastes, which can leave them with severe dental problems.
In 2012, the British Dental Journal reported that toothpastes with an Relative Dentin Abrasivity (RDA) of more than 100 were considered abrasive and could damage teeth and gums. A number of popular whitening toothpastes on the market have an RDA in excess of 100, so are leaving people in danger of potentially damaging their teeth, said Harris.
