Busting 7 Common Myths About Teeth Whitening
- by Milena Marguenski
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- 25 Oct, 2021
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Yellow or stained teeth can ruin your smile and overall look.
Not anymore!
There are a variety of teeth whitening solutions that can help you get a whiter and brighter smile.
However, there are many misconceptions that can prevent people from undergoing teeth whitening treatment.
But not all the rumors are real.
Herein, we are busting some of the most popular myths about teeth whitening.
1. Professional & at-home whitening kits are the same
Though both professional and at-home whitening kits can result in white and shiny teeth, these are two different procedures.
Some differences are:
- Effective: In-office treatment involves the use of bleaching and whitening solutions that are stronger and effective than at-home kits.
- Results: Unlike at-home teeth whitening kits, professional treatment has long-lasting results, meaning teeth will stay whiter and brighter for a good period of time.
- Cost: People may find at-home whitening kits cost-effective but professional treatment is more economical in the long run.
2. Whitening treatment lasts forever
This is totally wrong.
Teeth whitening treatment can last anywhere between 6 months to 2 years. To make sure, it can last longer, follow a few tips:
- Avoid stain-causing food items like red wine or coffee
- Quit smoking
- Follow a healthy oral routine
- Consult your dentist regularly
- Avoid extremely hot or cold food products
3. Avoid dental treatment if you have sensitive teeth
Not exactly true.
You can safely get rid of discoloration and have a white smile, even if you have sensitive teeth.
There are many options to help you reduce sensitivity and make the teeth whitening process painless.
If you have sensitive teeth, follow a few tips before undergoing the treatment.
- Brush your teeth
- Use desensitizing gel and toothpaste
- Avoid hot or cold drinks
- Use soft toothbrush
- Make a saltwater mouthwash
4. Painful procedure
Many people dread teeth whitening treatment just because they assume it to be painful. But this is not exactly true.
People having gum problems or sensitive teeth may experience slight discomfort or pain during the procedure. But this lasts only for a few hours and can be treated with over-the-counter medications prescribed by your dentists.
5. Suitable for everyone
No, this is not true. Teeth whitening is not suitable for people having
- Brown or gray-toned teeth
- Discolored teeth caused by medications or an accident
- Veneers or crowns
It is not even recommended for kids under 16 and for pregnant & lactating ladies.
It’s advisable to talk to your dentist to know whether or not you are an ideal candidate for teeth whitening.
6. Whitening toothpaste is effective
Also, it contains a less quantity of whitening chemicals, so it can only remove surface stains but not deep stains.
So, these products don’t show notable results.
7. You can never drink coffee or wine after the treatment
It’s recommended to avoid stain-causing foods and beverages like coffee or wine post teeth whitening treatment. But it is temporary and you need to avoid such foods only for 48 hours after treatment.
Good news for coffee lovers, you can maintain brighter and whiter teeth by following a few tips:
- Use a straw
- Brush your teeth else rinse the mouth with water after having tea or coffee
- Maintain good oral hygiene like dental checkups
In the end….
Brooklyn residents often wonder whether their tap water is helping or harming their dental health. One key factor in this debate is
fluoride
, a naturally occurring mineral added to public water supplies to prevent cavities. But does Brooklyn tap water really protect your teeth from decay? In this blog,
we’ll
uncover the truth about fluoride levels in NYC’s water and whether it plays a significant role in cavity prevention.
Sudden gum swelling is a dental condition that requires immediate attention, even if there is no pain. Gum health is often overlooked, but it is essential for overall oral well- being. Swollen gums may seem harmless at first, but they often indicate underlying issues that can worsen if left untreated.
Many people think of dental emergencies as situations with severe pain, but it's important to understand that discomfort isn't always a reliable sign of serious problems. Just because there is no pain doesn't mean there is no risk. Sudden gum swelling should be treated as an emergency , emphasizing the need for prompt professional evaluation.
Ignoring swollen gums can lead to more severe complications, affecting both oral health and general wellness. By understanding the seriousness of this condition and
seeking timely intervention, you can prevent further damage and ensure that your gums—and teeth—stay healthy and strong.
A skilled dental team can properly assess and treat any swelling. Prioritize your gum health by taking action when you notice unusual changes, protecting your smile for the future.
It's important to remember that maintaining good oral hygiene, including flossing your teeth regularly , can help prevent conditions like gum swelling. Additionally, if you're interested in improving your smile beyond just addressing gum issues, there are various options available in cosmetic dentistry that you should know about. Finally, if you're looking for ways to achieve a brighter smile, there are effective methods on how to get whiter and brighter teeth at home that you might find helpful.
If you thought that oral health problems are only for adults, then think again. The first teeth start appearing by 4 to 5 months of age. Then by the age of 3, kids have a full set of teeth. This is the time when parents have to be extremely careful about oral hygiene.
By the age of 6-7, the primary teeth start to fall out to make space for the permanent teeth. These permanent teeth are the ones that will stay with them for the rest of their lives. However, there are certain oral problems such as tooth decay, lip sucking, and early teeth loss.
Let’s take a look at these common oral health problems.
With the procedures’ popularity, several pharmaceutical companies launched their over-the-counter teeth whitening kits. This made the procedure more accessible and cheaper as compared to a professional session.
But which one is better? Let’s understand both the procedures first.
