Teeth whitening is a trending issue, and anything trending usually generates a lot of discussion, so there is a lot of content out there about this issue. Have you ever paused to consider which claims about natural whitening are factual and which are merely fabrications? This paper tackles five common myths and exposes the reality behind such claims.
Myth number one: Professional teeth whitening is painful.
A delicate part of everyone’s mouth and teeth can cause anxiety when people think about getting treatment because they are worried that it might hurt. In reality, however, professional teeth whitening is painless and can be quite relaxing for most people. For any enduring sensitivity, telling your mouth specialist in advance gives them a chance to guarantee your ease on the day of the procedure.
Fact: Teeth whitening procedures, on average, cause no discomfort and greatly enhance self-confidence.
Myth 2: You can DIY teeth whitening or visit a beauty parlor.
People typically consider teeth whitening at their beauty parlor acceptable, but we must curb this tendency. It is essential to inform orthodontists and professional dentists about this process since it’s not cosmetic but dental. Dental hygienists and therapists can also perform these procedures for patients under the supervision of a licensed and qualified physician.
Fiction: The Dental Council only permits teeth whitening once, and performing it without a license is against the law.
Myth 3: Teeth whitening Weakens Enamel
During teeth whitening, oxygen particles are sprayed to aggressively dissolve the stains and remove plaque, inflammation, and other undesired substances without damaging the enamel layer of the teeth. Professional-strength whitening treatments have undergone extensive testing and gained widespread acceptance as a safe whitening method. According to research, several substances can whiten teeth, but not all are safe or suitable for use.
Fact: You can safely do cosmetic tooth whitening with a laser or bleach. It does not damage one’s enamel or gums.
Fiction: Strongly colored drinks and food are a big no
Myth 4: Strong-Coloured Foods and Drinks Are Off-Limits
To aid in the recovery of the mouth, do not consume intensely colored foods or drinks, as they may stain your mouth; this should only be done 24 to 48 hours after the dental procedure, and you should consider more suitable options like beer instead. Simple coffee, dark juices, and red wine can stain your teeth, so it’s best to avoid them. But from the rest, even a sip of wine is delicate, but for the first couple of days, it’s best to avoid anything too strong in flavor and color to be safer. After this period, the likelihood of teeth staining will not increase compared to their pre-procedure state.
Fact: While avoiding teeth-staining foods and drinks is ideal, consuming them in moderation is also essential.
Myth 5: Teeth whitening lasts forever.
Teeth whitening is not permanent, and it can last for a specific period of time based on various factors, such as diet, oral care routine, lifestyle, etc. It can last between a couple of months and a few years. However, if someone regularly consumes tea, coffee, wine, or tobacco, the chances of stains appearing again increase.
Fact: Regular touch-ups from a dentist can maintain teeth whitening.
Beginner’s Luck Won’t Cut It Here
Many patients I know have shared that teeth whitening is one of the most life-changing procedures they have gone through. Good-quality dentists with the right skills know how to handle teeth whitening, as many myths surround it. The result will depend on the natural shade of your teeth, the level of staining, etc. A practitioner can evaluate all of that, so don’t be worried there.
If you need a strong boost of confidence due to duller teeth, I highly suggest you invest in teeth whitening. Your health is of the utmost importance, and experience is essential when undergoing such treatments.