Shiny, pearly white teeth have become part of an ideal beauty standard that’s gaining popularity with over-the-counter teeth whitening products. Almost any grocery store or pharmacy has several options available. Whether you’re looking for a whitening toothpaste, mouthwash, or even a teeth whitening kit, you’ll find it with relative ease! Many people hoping to achieve brighter smiles have ended up disappointed with these products, though. Keep reading to learn more about 4 myths behind commercially available whitening products.
Myth #1: Stronger Equals Better
You might think that stronger whitening agents can only further enhance your smile. The unfortunate truth is that the higher the intensity of the whitener, the more likely it is that the product will cause tooth sensitivity. Not only that, but products have pH values that can damage the protective enamel of your tooth. Therefore, it’s important to always follow the instructions included with any teeth whitening kits, toothpaste, or gels to avoid any unintentional injury.
Myth #2: Any Tooth Can Be Whitened
Some discoloration on our teeth, like from eating dark foods that cause stains, are on the exterior of the tooth and can be addressed with whitening. Discoloration from inside the tooth, however, cannot be reached or fixed with tooth whitening. If you have a deep cavity, for example, you’d hurt the tooth further by attempting to bleach it, in addition to causing some unnecessary pain. Similarly, you cannot whiten dark fillings already in your teeth.
Myth #3: Teeth Whitening is Permanent
Unfortunately, if you have stains on your teeth from eating and drinking foods like coffee, berries, fruit juices, etc. then there’s nothing to stop those foods from doing the same thing after whitening treatment. You can maintain a lighter shade long-term by instilling healthy dental hygiene habits, like regularly brushing and flossing, along with periodic whitening treatments. You don’t want to overdo it! It’s important to take time in between sessions to give your teeth a break from the strong bleaching agents.
Myth #4: Whitening At Home Is the Same As At Your Dentist
Your dentist is a professional who has access to higher-quality materials and instruments to whiten your teeth. Their solutions also contain ingredients that help eliminate sensitivity as well as whiten your teeth. Not only that, but your dentist will be able to see any problem areas- like gum disease or tooth decay- that need to be handled before you can effectively whiten your teeth. That means when you go to your dentist instead of using at-home products, you’re getting an oral health check as well as a cosmetic upgrade!
If you’re interested in brightening your smile, call your dentist today. Many dentists even offer take-home kits with custom-fitted trays, so that you can get professional quality whitening at home. Make an appointment now and you’ll be on your way to showing off the pearly white shade of your dreams!
About the Author
Dr. George A. Hoop has helped improve smiles for over 30 years. He believes in authentic communication with patients so that he understands all of your oral health goals and needs so that he can find solutions that work for you. He also offers affordable payment plans so that even if your insurance doesn’t cover cosmetic treatments, the cost doesn’t have to hold you back. If you’re interested in making an appointment, feel free to contact us on the website or by calling (239) 594-8817.