Myths & Facts About Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is a procedure that cleanses your teeth by removing stains and discolorations and gives them a shiny white appearance. It is one of the common cosmetic dental treatments which gives your face an aesthetic appearance. Teeth whitening is an ideal treatment for people who have sensitive teeth.

This article has outlined ten myths and facts people believe in while getting the treatment. Let's look at some of these myths one at a time and see how they can affect teeth whitening procedures.

Myths About Teeth Whitening

Some of the myths about teeth whitening include:

• Any teeth can be whitened

Unfortunately, not all teeth can be whitened, depending mostly on each person's dental health. In addition, there are some types of teeth that cannot be whitened, including teeth with pigment after taking some drugs or teeth with fillings. In such a case, the effect can only be corrected using dental veneers.

• The teeth whitening effects remain forever.

This is not true. Daily meals leave plaque which may eventually color your teeth. This will happen if you all lead a healthy lifestyle. It is not always possible to completely abandon taking coloring foods, juices, and wines. However, the whitening effect should and can be maintained. This is through proper dental care, minimizing bad habits, and adequate nutrition.

• Fruits help to remove the stains on your teeth.

There is a lot of misinformation on the internet that talks about whitening techniques such as lemon on teeth, strawberries, and pineapples. However, contrary to this, there is a popular belief that these techniques may produce opposite results than what you desire. For example, some may scrub your teeth's enamel which can result in tooth discoloration.

• It is impossible to whiten teeth with fillings

It is not true. Health teeth and teeth that have fillings may even be whitened. The aesthetic beauty of your smile brings out confidence. The only thing that you need to remember is that fillings cannot be whitened. Instead, you should choose fillings that match the color of your tooth's enamel.

Facts About Teeth Whitening

Some of the factual things that you need to know concerning teeth whitening include:

• How can your teeth become discolored?

Several reasons can make your teeth change their color. Commonly taking a certain type of food and beverages will change the color of your teeth. For example, drinking tea, coffee, or red wine will stain your teeth. This is because the liquids have pigments that will get attached to your tooth's enamel. Nicotine and tar on tobacco products also produce yellow and brown stains covering your teeth.

Time may also play a factor. As we age, our outer enamel becomes thin, making the underlying yellowish dentin visible. Some health conditions may also contribute to the discoloration of your teeth. This includes antibiotics, antihistamines, high blood pressure medication, and chemotherapy.

• Sensitivity after teeth whitening is normal

Approximately 62% of Americans have naturally sensitive teeth. This is often caused by having tin enamel, genetics, or damaged or cracked teeth. During the whitening process, it is normal to experience sensitivity.

Your teeth become temporarily hydrated, thus reducing the ability to insulate your nerves from temperature changes. As a result, the sensitivity will hover and disappear after12-36 hours following the whitening process.

• Your teeth are like sponges. They absorb.

Just like your skin or a sponge, your teeth also have pores. Anything you put on your mouth with color will absorb into these pores. Dark berries, wine, and smoking tobacco products are extremely active in staining your teeth.

With time, the natural color of your teeth may darken due to these stains. However, the stains will not go away until you actively remove them. This is by visiting our cosmetic dentist in Old Saybrook, CT, or using a properly formulated home whitening gel.

Where Can You Find Teeth Whitening in Old Saybrook, CT?

When you want to improve the appearance of your smile by brightening your teeth by removing stains and discolorations, you should visit Saybrook Family Dental Care. The dentist will guide you through the process and recommend the products you can use at home to whiten your teeth if you are considering the at-home whitening option. Your dentist will also recommend you buy some of the products you will need to use.