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7 Things You Didn’t Know About Teeth Whitening

7 Things You Didn’t Know About Teeth Whitening

Posted by On 15-03-2021

Teeth whitening in Milton is one of the easiest and most affordable cosmetic dental services & treatments available. However, not all teeth whitening treatments are alike. There are many excellent over-the-counter products available today, so knowing which product is right for you and ensuring you use them properly is very important to see the results you desire. If you are interested in teeth whitening, you should always speak to your dentist first. They can share information to help you make the right choice. Here are 7 things you didn’t know about teeth whitening.

1. DIY whitening has its challenges

Although you can find an entire section of DIY whitening products at your local drug store, they don’t always provide impressive results. It’s all about how you apply them, as well as the current state of your dental health. There are many things that can go wrong with DIY whitening, including uneven application that can ruin your smile. However, if you don’t follow the instructions, you can also damage your teeth. For example, leaving the product on for too long in the hopes of speeding up the process can lead to sensitivity or even erosion. As well, if you have dental issues such as gum disease, or you have restorations that are visible such as crowns or veneers, you can also run into issues. It’s always best to discuss the teeth whitening services with our office before you proceed so you don’t end up with DIY whitener’s remorse!

2. Knowing if it’s a stain or discolouration

When you decide to go the DIY route, you might be disappointed in the results. While stains can be removed with whitening products, discolouration cannot. Stains are caused by exposure to things like tea, coffee, and smoking, while discolouration is caused by other issues such as past tooth trauma, medications, or a natural result of aging. By speaking to our team first, we can determine what is taking away from your white smile, so we can recommend the right treatment.

3. There are many social media teeth whitening myths

You can get caught in the latest celebrity beauty crazes and end up spending tons of money on products and “tricks” that don’t really work. This applies to the many teeth whitening myths circulating on social media. Although some are true, the myth lies in claims that the tricks are harmless. For example, charcoal for whitening works because it is abrasive and can help remove surface stains. Unfortunately, the abrasion is so effective that it removes the protective enamel of your teeth that keeps your teeth white. The dentin below is yellow. The more you erode the enamel, the yellower your teeth appear, and the less you can do about getting rid of it.

4. Not everyone can use whitening treatments

Going directly for DIY whitening treatments is never a good idea because these products are not right for everyone. Those who should avoid whitening treatments include:
  • People with noticeable dental work: If you have noticeable dental work such as crowns, veneers, or bonding, then whitening products will not work to remove stains. These products are designed specifically for natural teeth. If you use them, you will find your teeth whiten and your dental work remains yellow.
  • People with tooth sensitivity: The peroxide in DIY tooth whitening kits can be extremely painful if you already have sensitive teeth. Even if you don’t have sensitive teeth, the treatment can cause sensitivity. When you receive professional teeth whitening services, however, your gums and lips are protected to avoid or reduce possible discomfort and tooth sensitivity.
  • People requiring dental work: If you suffer from tooth decay, gum disease, or receding gums, then these issues must be treated before you proceed with teeth whitening. That’s why we recommend a consultation before this procedure, so we can determine what is required before you begin.
  • Pregnancy or lactating moms: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, then you should avoid whitening products.

5. Controlled concentrations of bleaching agents

The main difference between DIY and professional whitening treatments is the amount of bleaching agents found in the treatment gel. Whitening products contain different levels of peroxide that act as effective stain removers. However, dentists have prescription-strength formulas that help you achieve the best possible results. Professional treatments are also applied using customized trays that fit your teeth perfectly for even distribution of the gel. You can choose between an in-office professional treatment, or have the trays made to use at home. In-office treatments get the best results, followed by at-home treatments with customized trays, and then DIY over-the-counter kits last.

6. Beware of “natural” teeth whitening tips

As with many social media crazes, natural whitening tips can prove to be just as risky. Some natural whitening tips to avoid include:
  • Strawberries: Strawberries can help whiten teeth, as they contain malic acid, an ingredient used in toothpaste to help increase saliva production. Unfortunately, the natural bleaching properties in strawberries that can help whiten teeth also erode enamel, much like charcoal products. Therefore, while eating strawberries is perfectly healthy, scrubbing your teeth with them will cause more harm than good.
  • Lemons: Lemons are highly acidic, so they can help to remove stains on teeth. However, the acid is so strong that it too can do more harm than you think, including very effectively removing your much needed tooth enamel.
  • Coconut oil: This is another myth. Rinsing with coconut oil is rumored to “pull” stains from teeth, but this is just not true.

7. Professional at-home vs. over-the-counter whitening

As mentioned in point #5, professional at-home teeth whitening kits are far more effective than over-the-counter kits. It starts with the increased amount of hydrogen peroxide and is enhanced by the custom-fitted dental trays used to apply the whitening solution. This combination ensures whiter results and an even application that is impossible to achieve with over-the-counter products. The trays are also designed to reduce risk for sensitivity by keeping the gel away from your gum line. You can see results in as little as two weeks with your professional at-home treatment. If you would like more information about teeth whitening, set up a consultation with our team at Milltown Dental today.

21 Comments

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21 Comments

  • Posted on 09-08-2024 by Faye Dawson

    I had no idea about the impact of certain foods on whitening results or the difference between professional and over-the-counter options. This blog has definitely cleared up some misconceptions and will help me make more informed choices. Great read!

  • Posted on 06-08-2024 by Marry Tupas

    Thank you for the insightful post on teeth whitening! I appreciated the detailed information and unique tips that go beyond the basics. Your article helped me understand the process better and make more informed decisions. Keep up the great work in providing valuable dental advice!

  • Posted on 01-07-2024 by Illume Dental of McKinney

    Teeth whitening in Milton is one of the most accessible and affordable cosmetic dental treatments. However, not all treatments are alike. Over-the-counter products vary in effectiveness, and improper use can lead to issues like uneven whitening or tooth sensitivity. Always consult your dentist before starting any whitening regimen to ensure you choose the right product and use it correctly. Here are seven things you didn’t know about teeth whitening to help you make an informed decision.

  • Posted on 12-01-2024 by Elle Jones

    It’s great that this article discussed the usage of charcoal as a teeth-whitening agent, as it dissolves the tooth’s protective enamel. This weekend, my sister wants to get her teeth whitened by a cosmetic dentist. I appreciate you providing the facts and dispelling the myths about teeth whitening. I will share your blog with my sister so she may receive the finest care possible!

  • Posted on 01-09-2023 by Elle Jones

    I like how you pointed out that over-the-counter products are far less effective than professional at-home kits for teeth whitening. The increased hydrogen peroxide content is the first step, and the custom-fit dental trays used to administer the whitening solution are the finishing touch. I’m considering buying myself some dental cosmetics for the holidays. After reading your essay, I’m compelled to look for a qualified, respectable, and experienced dentist who can provide me with an excellent teeth-whitening treatment.

  • Posted on 15-04-2023 by Elina Brooks

    My sister’s wedding is in June, so she was thinking of getting an appointment for teeth whitening next week to make her smile even more lovely during her most important day. I’m glad you mentioned that teeth whitening is one of the easiest and most affordable cosmetic dental treatments available since modern dentistry now has various products that can ensure we get the results we desire. I’ll take note of this while I help my sister find a cosmetic dentist to call for her appointment soon.

  • Posted on 28-03-2023 by Patrick Hollison

    Wonderful explanation and thoughts! I can relate to all your thoughts on this. Thank you for writing this blog and sharing it with us. Such a great help in my end.

  • Posted on 01-03-2023 by Lydia Baca

    Thanks for the information. Really Informative & helpful content.

  • Posted on 22-02-2023 by Lily Bridgers

    I didn’t know that whitening treatments have various concentrations of peroxide that work as efficient stain removers, but dentists have formulations with prescription strength that help you get the greatest results. Being a habitual coffee drinker who also smokes, the damage it has done to my teeth’s appearance is heartbreaking. I appreciate your advise and will make sure to find a cosmetic dentist that specializes in teeth whitening because I need to have it done as soon as possible.

  • Posted on 14-02-2023 by Colin Mitchell

    Coffee, tea, fruit juice, soda, and wine are beverages that contain varying ingredients, like tannin, dyes, and phosphoric acid, which can yellow your teeth over time.

  • Posted on 05-01-2023 by Patrick Hollison

    These are the seven issues I frequently have with myself. Thanks for this informative information. This real for me. Thanks a lot.

  • Posted on 19-12-2022 by Smith Graham

    I appreciate you providing this helpful blog about teeth whitening. Many people are interested in learning more about teeth whitening. Make sure they can actually benefit from this blog. Visit teeth whitening in Columbia, Missouri if you require treatment for tooth whitening.

  • Posted on 19-10-2022 by Granite

    Taking care of teeth is really important that everyone must consider and prioritize. Great tips.

  • Posted on 28-06-2022 by smith patterson

    Just a fact a tooth whitening does not damage your teeth. just like aggressive brushing of your teeth, abuse of any kind can be damaging. However, if used as instructed, professional teeth whitening is incredibly safe.

  • Posted on 24-05-2022 by Mats Wolff

    It’s intriguing that you say we shouldn’t use charcoal to whiten our teeth because it eliminates the protective enamel. My sister wants to whiten her teeth at a cosmetic dentist this weekend. Thanks for the information about teeth whitening misconceptions to avoid, and I’ll share your blog with my sister so she may get the best service possible!

  • Posted on 04-04-2022 by Suzie Tose

    This is a good articles which helps me to understand the importance of teeth whitening as well as its importance to our oral health. Also I have read related articles regarding teeth whitening at “https://www.texasoralsurgerygroup.com/”.

  • Posted on 24-03-2022 by Mats Wolff

    Its helpful when you said that teeth whitening products is not suitable for everyone and that we should consult a professional first before we use them. I want to get my teeth whitened this weekend since it is yellow in color. Thanks for the information on teeth whitening and after reading your article, I cant wait to get mine done!

  • Posted on 22-03-2022 by Mats Wolff

    Its interesting when you said that we should not use charcoal to whiten teeth because it removes the protective enamel of the teeth. My sister wants to visit a cosmetic dentist this weekend to whiten her teeth. Thanks for the information and myths not to follow on teeth whitening and I will forward your article with my sister so that she can get the best service she needs!

  • Posted on 21-12-2021 by Luke Smith

    It was very informative to know that charcoal for whitening is a social media myth and that we should never try it. I’m thinking about having dental cosmetics as a holiday gift for myself. Upon reading your article, I’m convinced to find a professional, reputable and experienced dentist who can offer me a topnotch teeth whitening procedure.

  • Posted on 17-06-2021 by Grace Willams

    Very well written and informative article. It will help lot of people in clearing their doubt about teeth whitening process and is it ok for them to get it done. Keep up the good work.

  • Posted on 29-03-2021 by Grace Willams

    Great read and very informative , specially the way you have explained every point in such a effective and simple language is awesome.