Debunking Common Teeth Whitening Myths

Have you noticed that your teeth aren't pearly white each time you look at the mirror or smile for selfies? If this is the case, you might have considered undergoing a teeth whitening procedure, but the different opinions, possible side effects, and the process could be putting you off. Although most people get nervous when they think of this procedure, the good news is that it's actually very safe. Moreover, you don't need to be a celebrity to desire healthier and whiter teeth.

Here are common tooth whitening myths and the truth behind them.

It's cheaper to use whitening toothpaste

Yes, whitening toothpaste is cheaper compared to in-office treatment or trays and strips. However, the product will be only suitable if a thorough cleaning is your idea of teeth whitening. These kinds of toothpaste work by eliminating surface stains as those you get from coffee, tea, and cigarette smoking; they will not change your teeth's intrinsic colour. Some of these products contain abrasive ingredients that help scrub the stains off, and this can remove the protective layer that forms over the teeth. This makes the teeth sensitive and prone to staining. While it's not wrong to use whitening toothpaste from time to time, avoid using it for your daily oral care.

The laser used to whiten teeth is harmful

First, it isn't a laser but a LED or UV light used to activate bleaching products and ensure they penetrate the teeth. This is the reason you'll achieve better results when you visit a dentist's office compared to a fortnight of utilising traditional tray bleaching. This battery-powered LED device comes with over-the-counter kits for tooth whitening, and the blue-light spectrum apparatus can boost the whitening process.

You shouldn't take wine or coffee again

If this statement was true, nobody could consider the teeth whitening procedure. While it's true that dentists advise against taking acidic and 'heavily staining' foods and drinks during the first few days after the treatment, it doesn't mean you should never take them. This includes soda, tea, coffee, chocolate, soy sauce, orange juice, and red wine, just to name a few. Such foods and drinks are prohibited for a few days after the treatment because the bleach used opens the enamel tubules, and the cleansing reaction continues for some days. But after these days, you can go back to taking any kind of food or drinks.

Teeth whitening is a procedure that can help you get a perfect smile. If you have any questions or doubts regarding the procedure, consider talking to a cosmetic dentistry professional instead of believing some myths.

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