Everybody loves a bright white smile. So it is no surprise that teeth whitening treatments are becoming more popular. I’ve debunked some of the common myths to help you decide if teeth whitening is right for you.
Teeth whitening is not painful, but it can cause some added sensitivity to gums and teeth. The hydrogen peroxide in the teeth whitener causes this sensitivity. Most people will experience an increase in tooth sensitivity for 24 hours after the procedure.
Both professional and at home treatments can produce results. The benefit of having your teeth professionally whitened is that you have a dentist ensuring you’re a good candidate for teeth whitening, and professional whitening is faster. Also, since at home treatments require the use of gel or strips for a certain amount of time each day for a given period of time, the teeth are exposed to hydrogen peroxide daily. This will cause you to experience teeth sensitivity for the duration of the treatment rather than just 24 hours.
Our teeth are not naturally white — they are either a shade of yellow, brown or gray. Whitening your teeth will polish off the stains, but not change the natural color of your teeth. However, bleaching can whiten beyond teeth’s natural color. It is important to remember that results vary with each individual, even for bleaching.
Teeth whitening is not recommended for people under the age of 16, pregnant or lactating women, people with sensitive teeth, who are allergic to peroxide, have gum disease, untreated cavities, worn enamel, exposed roots, or teeth restorations such as veneers.
Teeth whitenening is not permanent. Your teeth will still be susceptible to staining from drinks such as coffee, tea and wine even after you whiten.
Although teeth whitening has been associated with damaging teeth enamel, a recent study by The Journal of American Dental Association concluded that teeth whitening agents do not increase the susceptibility of wear on tooth enamel.
