If you’re searching for the best way to whiten teeth, you’ve likely come across a few methods to try at home. While teeth whitening can be done in the convenience of your bathroom, there are a number of methods that simply don’t work. So we’re going to debunk a few of the most popular teeth whitening myths that could actually damage your teeth.
Myth: Baking soda can whiten teeth
Truth: People get lost in the fact that baking soda can, initially, remove surface stains from teeth, but because it’s such an abrasive element, it can strip the enamel off. The powder also messes up the balance of good and bad bacteria in your mouth, causing plaque to buildup and discolors your teeth. Lastly, baking soda cannot remove deep, aged stains.
Myth: Hydrogen peroxide whitens teeth
Truth: It’s easy to assume hydrogen peroxide can whiten teeth, as it is an active ingredient in a number of tooth whitening products. However, it’s only safe when used with other ingredients, not alone. Hydrogen peroxide by itself is very dangerous to your oral tissue and does not work to whiten teeth.
Myth: Brushing daily will make my teeth much whiter
Truth: Brushing two to three times daily is a great dental hygiene practice, but brushing alone will not give you drastic results. Even teeth whitening toothpaste can’t have an extreme effect because the whitening ingredients must be in contact with your teeth for 20 minutes to begin to work. For the best teeth whitening results, make a consultation with your dentist in Shelton.
Myth: At-home teeth whitening is the same as at the dentist office
Truth: Teeth whitening products that can be performed in your home are much different than what’s offered at your dentist in Bridgeport. At-home teeth whitening has fluctuating levels of carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide, but getting your teeth whitened at the dentist office means the products have been tested and will offer a custom whitening solution for your teeth.
Myth: Teeth whitening lasts forever
Truth: Teeth whitening products vary in how long the effects last. At-home systems can offer a whitening solution for a couple of weeks, maybe a month or two. Teeth whitening at your Trumbull Line dentist can last up to three years, depending on your lifestyle habits. Consistently drinking beverages that stain teeth – wine, coffee, soda – can have a negative effect on your teeth whitening results. Whitening results are different for everyone, so making an appointment to discuss your goals is the best way to get your desired look.
Myth: Teeth whitening works on veneers
Truth: Whitening gels and other teeth whitening products only work on natural teeth. The best way to change the color of veneers and dental crowns is to replace them.
Myth: Lemon can whiten teeth
Truth: The acid in lemons can help remove plaque, but this fruit doesn’t have any of the bleaching properties needed to whiten teeth substantially. Eating lemon may do more harm than good, as the acid has the power to break down your enamel.
If you’re interested in whitening your teeth, the first step is to become educated about what could potential harm your smile. Your goal is to find a teeth whitening method that removes deep stains, not just surface stains that will return over time.