There is a lot of advice and information to be found on teeth whitening. Some of the advice can be misleading causing us to try ineffective treatments that simply do not work!
We expose the top 10 teeth whitening myths so that you can be sure you are wasting your time and money on ineffective whitening treatments:
Top 10 Teeth Whitening Myths
1/ You can whiten your teeth with baking soda so there is no need to buy a teeth whitening kit?
Baking soda does help to remove staining but it will not affect the colour of your teeth. Brushing your teeth with baking soda will damage the bacterial balance of your mouth and may damage your teeth enamel. If you wish to use baking soda, buy whitening toothpaste.
2/ All home teeth whitening is completely safe
Teeth whitening is a safe process but you have to follow the instructions carefully and not overdo it. If the instructions say leave the gel on for 20 minutes do not be tempted to leave it on for longer. Aim at a natural effect of a few shades lighter and make sure you always choose a good quality kit.
3/ The strongest bleaching gel gets the whitest results
Although a strong bleaching gel may work faster initially, the results will not be as long lasting as a milder solution and you run the risk of pain and discomfort.
4/ Teeth whitening is painful
You can experience temporary sensitivity after teeth whitening. Try a lower strength bleaching gel if you experience anything more than a mild and temporary discomfort.
5/ It is better to have teeth whitening carried out professionally rather than use a home kit
The process is much the same although it will cost you more, and salons tend to use stronger whitening gel than found in home kits. However, there usually is no difference to the final result
6/ Once your teeth have been whitened they will stay white permanently
Teeth discolour with age and are affected by staining. You will have to occasionally top up whitening to maintain the colour.
7/ You can whiten your teeth with lemon juice and salt
No, because it does not work and rubbing these ingredients into your teeth will only damage the enamel. Try using lemon and salt with a tequila – it will do you less harm.
8/ You can have teeth whitening at any age, young or old
Any form of teeth whitening is unsuitable for children because it can damage the growing tissue inside the teeth. There is no upper age limit.
9/ You can whiten veneers, crowns and fillings
Home teeth whitening will not work on veneers, crowns and fillings. You will need to visit a cosmetic dentist to find out the best course of treatment to achieve full mouth whiteness
10/ I will have such a beautiful smile that I will have to fight off all the positive attention
Yes. This is probably true!
