A bright, white smile is often associated with youth, health, and vitality, leading many people to seek out teeth whitening treatments to enhance their smiles. However, with the abundance of information available and the easy access to home whitening ‘solutions’, it can be tricky finding the truth amongst the teeth whitening myths. Here, we’ll shed light on some common teeth whitening misconceptions, separating fact from fiction to help you make informed decisions about how to achieve a whiter, brighter smile.
Myth 1: Teeth Whitening Damages Tooth Enamel
Fact: When performed correctly, teeth whitening treatments are safe and do not damage tooth enamel. Professional teeth whitening products, whether administered by a dentist or purchased from them to be used at home under professional guidance, contain active ingredients like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide that penetrate the enamel to break up stains. While temporary tooth sensitivity may be an expected side effect, reputable whitening products such as Boutique are formulated to minimise any potential harm to enamel.
Myth 2: Whitening Toothpaste is as Effective as Professional Treatments
Fact: While whitening toothpaste can help remove surface stains and maintain the results of professional teeth whitening treatments, they are not as effective at achieving significant whitening results on their own. Professional whitening treatments use higher concentrations of whitening agents and are designed to penetrate deeper into the tooth enamel to remove stubborn stains and discolouration that is not achievable with regular whitening toothpaste.
Myth 3: DIY Whitening Hacks Are Safe and Effective
Fact: Platforms like Instagram are great at dispersing the latest beauty hacks but not so reliable at researching the facts! It’s really important to take DIY teeth whitening hacks, such as using lemon juice, baking soda, or charcoal, with a pinch of salt as they can be ineffective and potentially harmful to your teeth and gums. Lemon juice is acidic and can erode tooth enamel, while baking soda and charcoal can be abrasive and damage enamel with prolonged use. It’s best to stick to dentist-recommended whitening products and treatments for safe and effective results – ask your Cotteswold House dentist first, if you are in any doubt.
Myth 4: Teeth Whitening Works for Everyone
Fact: While teeth whitening can effectively lighten stains caused by ageing, dietary habits, and lifestyle factors like smoking, it may not be suitable for everyone. Teeth whitening treatments are most effective on extrinsic stains (surface stains) and may not produce significant results for intrinsic stains (stains within the tooth). Additionally, certain dental conditions, such as tooth decay, gum disease, and dental restorations like crowns or veneers, may impact the effectiveness of whitening treatments.
Myth 5: Teeth Whitening Results Are Permanent
Fact: While teeth whitening treatments can produce dramatic results, the effects are not permanent. The longevity of whitening results depends on various factors, including your oral hygiene habits, dietary choices, and lifestyle factors. Over time, teeth may become stained again due to factors like consumption of staining foods and beverages, smoking, and natural ageing. However, regular top-ups and maintenance can help prolong the results of teeth whitening treatments. Another factor that influences the results is the method of whitening; home whitening trays generally produce more effective and dramatic results compared to the quicker and more affordable option of an in-surgery system such as BlancOne. It is best to discuss which is best for you with your Cotteswold House dentist.
Conclusion
With the abundance of information available about teeth whitening, it’s essential to separate fact from fiction to make informed decisions about achieving a whiter, brighter smile. By busting common myths and understanding the facts about teeth whitening, you can navigate the process safely and effectively. Remember, consulting with your dentist is the best way to determine the most suitable teeth whitening option for your individual needs and ensure optimal results. It’s time to say goodbye to myths and hello to a radiant smile!
Cotteswold House Dental Care is a family-owned dental practice that offers a relaxing and friendly atmosphere that gives you complete peace of mind whilst protecting your smile. Our in-house services include general dentistry, children’s dentistry, dental implants, dentures and bridges, whitening and composite bonding, advanced treatments such as root canals and oral surgery, Invisalign, and many more. We welcome referrals from other practices as well as self-referrals, and offer direct access for our BlancOne teeth whitening treatment.