Who doesn’t want a brilliant, dazzling smile? If your teeth have become yellowed or lackluster over time, it’s only natural to explore teeth whitening options. As a result, many individuals find themselves searching the internet for solutions, only to find themselves overwhelmed. After all, you can find just about anything online, from good information to no-so-good advice. How do you know which recommendations are safe and effective? Today, our team at Metropolitan Dental Care is here to dispel common myths about teeth whitening. If you are considering teeth whitening in Lone Tree, read on, so you can achieve a beautiful smile without compromising your oral health. Here are the most common myths we’ve encountered about teeth whitening.
Myth #1: You can use hydrogen peroxide rinses to whiten your teeth.
While hydrogen peroxide is the active ingredient in many teeth whitening products, it is not a good idea to swish with it. When this substance comes into contact with the soft tissues of the mouth, it causes free radical reactions – the same thing that actually ages living tissue.
Myth #2: You can whiten your teeth with lemons and strawberries.
Believe it or not, this is actually true. However, when you find out how these fruits whiten the teeth, you won’t want to use this method. The acids in the strawberries and lemons erode the enamel – the hard, protective outer shell of the teeth. As a result, the dentin underneath is exposed, leaving you extremely vulnerable to tooth decay and damage.
Myth #3: Baking soda can be used to whiten the teeth.
Somewhere along the way, this became a popular assumption. However, baking soda is not effective for whitening the teeth. Additionally, using baking soda routinely can disturb the balance of good and bad oral bacteria.
Myth #4: Dentist-supervised and store-bought teeth whitening are the same.
This simply is not true. Some over-the-counter whitening products actually damage the enamel, leaving your teeth susceptible to other dental issues. Dentist-supervised bleaching is safe, effective, and can be tailored to your individual needs. For example, an individual who experiences significant tooth and gum sensitivity may prefer to whiten their teeth at home over a few weeks’ time, using a dentist-supervised kit. Others may wish to achieve a dramatic result in one hour, which can be accomplished through in-office bleaching.
Myth #5: Custom restorations can be bleached with teeth whitening.
Many individuals wrongly assume that their crowns, bridges, or other restorations will brighten with the use of teeth whitening. On the contrary, restorations made from composite resin, ceramic porcelain, zirconia, or other dental materials will not change in color. Therefore, if you are considering multiple cosmetic procedures for a smile makeover, you will need to whiten first. Then, your new restorations can be color-matched to your new smile.
Myth #6: Teeth whitening is only required once.
Having your teeth whitened professionally can certainly produce long-lasting benefits. In fact, results can last for years in some cases. However, the aging process and exposure to staining agents in the American diet will eventually discolor the teeth again. However, properly caring for your teeth after your whitening is complete can help you enjoy the aesthetic advantages for years to come. Simply maintain good oral health habits, attend routine dental visits, and perform occasional touch-ups according to your dentist’s recommendations.
Learn More about Teeth Whitening in Lone Tree
When it comes to oral health, don’t turn to the internet. Let us help! Our Lone Tree dentists can design a personalized treatment plan that will deliver the results you desire in a safe, effective, and budget-friendly way. If you have questions about teeth whitening in Lone Tree, Parker, Highlands Ranch, or Centennial, schedule a consultation with us today. You can contact us online or call us at 303-534-2626.
