Myth Busters: The truth about Teeth Whitening

Tooth Whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures available today. It can provide one of the quickest, most effective ways to enhance the appearance of your smile.

Here at Kitchener Street Dental in Toowoomba, we receive lots of calls regarding teeth whitening. What’s more surprising is the amount of misconceptions people have about this treatment. Subsequently, we feel it’s only fitting to help debunk some of those time-tested myths here for you today.

At Kitchener Street Dental, we firmly believe that education is imperative, and understanding the correct ways to maintain your oral health is essential to your overall health also. With that said, let us delve into the myths and the facts about teeth whitening!

Myth #1: Household Teeth Whitening Agents help to whiten teeth

Mixing baking soda and water creates a paste that you can use just like regular toothpaste, but brush too hard and you can irritate your gums. Baking soda is nowhere near as effective as modern whitening technology. Fruits and vegetables act as natural teeth whitening agents which help to remove food particles and plaque from teeth, but their whitening power is minuscule and results take a long time to show. Brushing with olive oil is also another controversial teeth whitening agent; however, there is little evidence of noticeable whitening results. Finally, peeling an orange and rubbing the white side over your teeth is another old-fashioned teeth whitening remedy. While these remedies might be fun to test out, brushing twice daily, flossing and regular dental check ups are the best way to maintain a healthy smile. However, if you need more help removing stains consider a teeth whitening treatment at Kitchener dental.

Myth #2: Teeth whitening is painful

Teeth whitening should not be painful; however, gums and teeth can be very sensitive to hydrogen peroxide. Most tooth whitening procedures increase teeth sensitivity for twenty-four hours until the teeth become remineralised by saliva. Here at Kitchener Dental our gentle touch and experienced staff will ensure your comfort is prioritized throughout your treatment.

Myth #3: Anyone can get their teeth whitened

If your front teeth have been capped or you have crowns, teeth whitening will not work for you. A crown, which is a synthetic material, cannot be whitened. However, most tooth restorations are designed to resist stains, so often your crowns or caps will not require whitening.

Myth #4: Whitening damages your enamel

Although teeth whitening has been associated with damaging teeth enamel, a recent study by the Journal of American Dental Association concluded that professional teeth whitening agents do not increase the susceptibility of wear on tooth enamel. However, those products sold over the counter are not always ADA approved and can therefore be a risk to your health and enamel. By seeking a professional treatment here at Kitchener Dental you can rest assured knowing that we use safe effective products.

Myth #5: Only dentists can perform teeth whitening procedures

It is possible to get your teeth whitened at special kiosks in shopping malls, however, the technicians who perform the procedure are not dentists, nor are they medical experts. Teeth whitening technicians are not allowed to put their fingers in your mouth and must use “trays” that you insert into your mouth yourself. We recommend seeing a professional here at Kitchener Dental for a safe and effective treatment.

Myth # 6: Professional whitening is more effective than at-home treatment

Both professional and at home treatments can produce results. However, with the plethora of whitening strips available on the market today it can be difficult to know which product is safe or effective.

At Kitchener Street Dental in Toowoomba, we use Day White, which is one of the fastest whitening products available, transforming the effects of ageing and discolouration for a brighter, whiter smile. Day White is available in a take-home kit, which can help you to achieve the best from your smile and effectively reverse the effects of staining. Our dentists can work closely with you to determine the most appropriate treatment, catering to your individual needs and preferences.