Teeth whitening is a perfect way to brighten up dingy teeth. There are various options to choose from including in-office whitening and DIY teeth whitening kits. Regardless of your choice, it's essential to know the facts in advance. Most things that you hear about teeth whitening aren’t true.
Keep on reading to discover the six most common teeth whitening myths debunked.
1. It makes teeth highly sensitive
Certain bleaching solutions in DIY teeth whitening kits often do lead to sensitive teeth. Though, this side effect is typically short-term. The whitening solution may lead to minor gum irritation, too. That’s also short-term. There are ways to prevent soreness and discomfort after at-home whitening. Make sure to wear your whitening strips or trays for a shorter period. If the solution has to be applied for an hour, apply it for two 30-minute sessions instead. Let your teeth rest for a few days after your first sessions and brush them with toothpaste designed specifically for sensitive teeth.
2. It's very costly
Teeth whitening shouldn’t cost you a fortune. Do-it-yourself whitening kits are typically more affordable than in-office whitening. However, that doesn’t mean that all professional whitening will be beyond your means. DIY whitening kits run for about $100. Professional teeth whitening will cost you an average of $500. However, the price may vary. Some variants may cost you about $3,500. Some dental specialists can also supply you with custom-made whitening trays and a touch-up kit for home use as a special offer.
3. It’s appropriate for anyone
It’s not always possible to whiten your teeth with whitening solutions, even if you choose the more effective in-office whitening. Bleaching solutions cannot whiten dentures, crowns, veneers, caps, and fillings. If your teeth are discolored due to injury or certain medications, it also might be impossible to whiten them. If you have brown stains on your teeth, they may be only partially whitened. However, teeth with yellow stains typically whiten the best. Consult a dental specialist to determine if you’re a good candidate for teeth whitening.
4. One procedure is enough
Most teeth whitening options require touch-ups. In-office whitening typically lasts for up to three years. Though you may require additional whitening after the first six months. DIY whitening kits usually require a more frequent applying. The period your teeth whitening’s result duration depends on your teeth, the whitening method you’ve chosen, and your lifestyle. For example, alcohol consumption, smoking, and drinking coffee can make teeth discolor more quickly.
5. In-office whitening is necessary for good results
Undergoing professional teeth whitening isn’t always necessary for proper results. Dental specialists use a strong bleaching solution and a light-up to whiten teeth more effectively. They ensure the amount applied is safe and typically use something to prevent damaging your gums. And often just one visit to a dentist is enough for great results. DIY whitening strips, toothpastes, and gel kits aren’t currently approved by the American Dental Association. They may provide satisfying results, but it’s essential to consult your dental specialist before trying them. Always ask a professional if a certain whitening kit will be appropriate for you and get some advice on how to use it in the right way.
The bottom line
If you are currently considering getting rid of unsightly stains on your teeth and wonder which teeth whitening option will work for you the best, whether it’s DIY whitening kits or professional whitening treatment, avoid choosing the whitening method yourself. Always consult a dentist to determine which type of whitening is more gentle on your teeth and gums. This is essential to prevent the irreversible damage you may cause to your oral health.
I am Amelia Grant, journalist, and blogger. I think that information is a great force that is able to change people’s lives for the better. That is why I feel a strong intention to share useful and important things about health self-care, wellness and other advice that may be helpful for people. Being an enthusiast of a healthy lifestyle that keeps improving my life, I wish the same for everyone.
Our attention to ourselves, to our daily routine and habits, is very important. Things that may seem insignificant, are pieces of a big puzzle called life. I want to encourage people to be more attentive to their well-being, improve every little item of it and become healthier, happier, stronger. All of us deserve that. And I really hope that my work helps to make the world better.