In this month’s blog we look at some of the common misconceptions surrounding teeth whitening, to ensure you have all the information you need before you decide to proceed with treatment.
It is known that having a whiter, brighter smile improves self-confidence, so it is of no surprise that more and more people are turning to teeth whitening. Below we look at some of the most common idioms heard when it comes to teeth whitening.
White teeth are in fashion
This is true to a certain extent. No-one would choose to have a darker shade of teeth if they were given the choice and most people would definitely opt for a brighter, whiter smile. However, unlike many fashions this concept is unlikely to phase out. Teeth whitening has been performed using different techniques for decades and its popularity shows no signs of waning.
Teeth whitening damages your teeth
The long term safety of teeth whitening has been repeatedly established, with research showing that there is no long term effects associated with professional at home teeth whitening, which is what we offer at Valley Dental Practice. Teeth whitening does not work by striping any aspect of the tooth or damaging the enamel. Instead, the ingredients penetrate the layers of the tooth and in turn brighten the tooth from the inside out. As dentists it is our job and professional duty to ensure that you have healthy teeth suitable for whitening and that the procedure is performed safely.
Over the counter kits work just as well
Be careful! Taking the dentist out of the equation when considering teeth whitening eliminates the safety net. Ingredients in some over the counter methods may include acids and abrasives which may cause damage to your teeth. The legal limit of hydrogen peroxide that dentists can prescribe is 6%, over the counter kits can only have a maximum of 0.1% which means that you are unlikely to see the same results.
I can’t drink teas/coffee/red wine again
The effects of teeth whitening are not likely to last as long if you smoke or eat and drink things that can stain your teeth. However, with good maintenance and regular visits to the hygienist you should only need top up treatments once a year to keep your teeth looking their best.
Whitening toothpastes will do the job
They may to some extent. However, a lot of whitening toothpastes are abrasive to teeth, and this can lead to damage of the tooth enamel over time.
Teeth whitening causes sensitive teeth
If you already suffer with sensitive teeth, teeth whitening may exacerbate the sensitivity during treatment. The dentist will be able to provide you with heal and advice to keep sensitivity to a minimum. If you don’t normally suffer from sensitivity, you’re likely to experience some form of it during the whitening process. This is absolutely normal, so don’t be alarmed if you’ve felt some sensitivity; just skip a day and allow your teeth some recovery time.
Remember, the sensitivity is only short term.
Teeth whitening does not last
As might be expected over time out teeth can discolour and not appear as bright as they once were, but with at home teeth whitening it is very easy to keep your whitened teeth topped up, you will simply need to wear your trays for a night or two as advised by your dentist.
If you would like to find out more about teeth whitening call Valley Dental Practice on 01255 220322 to book your consultation today!
