The ADA House of Delegates has adopted a resolution to support public education about consulting a licensed dentist to determine if whitening/bleaching is an appropriate course of treatment, according to an ADA News article.
This move comes amidst concerns about safety issues regarding unlicensed providers working in teeth-whitening businesses, the article explained.
Recently, teeth-whitening kiosks operated by nondentists or unlicensed healthcare providers have popped up at malls across the U.S.
"The foremost concern is that there may be a chemical or ingredient being used that may be harmful to patients," said Dr. Daniel M. Meyer, ADA senior vice president of science/professional relations, in the news story. "Since these products are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, there is no assurance that they are safe or effective.
Click here to view the ADA statement on the safety and effectiveness of tooth-whitening products.