Myths About Teeth Whitening That You Need to Be Aware Of

Posted on: 11 February 2020

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As a popular cosmetic treatment, teeth whitening brings you closer to achieving the smile of your dreams. Unfortunately, there are some myths surrounding it that can make your experience less enjoyable. By understanding what they are and clearing them up, you'll enjoy a whitening experience that meets your needs.

Myth: You'll Damage Your Enamel

A lot of people mistakenly believe that teeth whitening damages their enamel. This myth suggests that, over time, repeated treatments will result in weaker teeth.

Provided you get your teeth whitening treatment done by a dental professional, you're not posing a risk to your enamel. However, it's important to recognise that those who aren't dentists probably won't perform the same safety assessments. As such, there's no guarantee of keeping your enamel safe when you use someone without a dental qualification.

Myth: You Can Whiten Crowns and Veneers

When your dentist first fits your crowns or veneers, they'll have a shine that you'll adore. But depending on the type of materials you use, that shine can die down over time. This is especially the case when you routinely drink a lot of coffee or red wine.

Unfortunately, it isn't possible to whiten crowns and veneers using the same solutions designed for teeth. The chemicals found in those solutions are formulated with human teeth in mind. Consequently, they may produce uneven results when they're used elsewhere.

Myth: Charcoal Is an Effective Whitening Tool

You may see a lot of products that contain activated charcoal. The manufacturers of those products often claim that brushing your teeth with charcoal is an effective way to whiten them.

There's a lack of scientific evidence supporting the use of charcoal to whiten teeth. Such products may abrasively remove surface stains, but they won't deliver the lasting results that a professional kit does. If you'd rather whiten your teeth at home than in a dentist's office, visit a dentist for a professional kit that will work. 

Myth: Teeth Whitening Isn't Safe for Sensitive Teeth

It's true that teeth whitening can make tooth sensitivity worse. However, that doesn't mean that you need to avoid it altogether.

Your dentist may be able to recommend sensitivity treatments that can reduce your risk of experiencing pain following your whitening session. They may also focus on gentler treatments. Although those treatments take a little longer to work, they do reduce your risk of experiencing sensitivity.

When investing in teeth whitening, always make sure you visit a professional. It's the best way to stay safe and to secure results that complement your natural aesthetic.