4 At-Home Teeth Whitening Myths

Who is your style icon? Most people can clatter off the names of several celebrities whose look they adore and try to emulate. From makeup to clothes, people use celebrities as a model for what is good-looking. That said, some people hardly ever notice that the one thing most fashion stars and celebrities have alike — a flawless smile.

That is because our stars of screen and stage know that having pearly white teeth speaks volumes about personality and health. It is no wonder you may want to emulate a celebrity.

Because of all the teeth whitening options available to people, let's clear up a few myths surrounding this treatment.

“DIY teeth whitening kits are a high-quality and low-cost option.”

Even though most at-home teeth whitening kits boast about reduced prices when compared to in-office treatments, many DIY choices end up costing more in the end due to the effects not lasting long. Also, many at-home treatments use harmful abrasives in their formulas to reduce stains. This wears at the tooth's enamel, which will intensify the sensitivity and is prone to staining in the future.

“Teeth whitening hurts sensitive teeth.”

This one is half true; several at-home kits will aggravate sensitive teeth. That is not always the case with treatments offered by a qualified dentist. With an almost infinite amount of whitening options at your disposal, the doctor can find a solution that works, regardless of how sensitive your teeth are.

Many of these options are simple solutions as well. For example, the doctor may recommend toothpaste that is engineered with oral sensitivity in mind. This will help to prepare the teeth for the whitening treatment.

“Whitening treatments strip teeth of their enamel.”

Although at-home choices may include harsh ingredients that can cause permanent damage to the enamel, in-office teeth whitening treatments keep oral health in mind.

Instead of applying a formula designed to strip the teeth of stains with chemicals, in-office whitening treatments operate by opening the teeth's microscopic pores. They can then whiten the tooth with their low-impact cleaning and whitening mixtures without disturbing the enamel.

Bottom Line

As is true of most things health-related, prevention is more effective than treatment. A person can avoid tooth discoloration and staining by flossing and brushing, avoiding smoking, limiting consumption of beverages that stain teeth, such as coffee, tea and wine, and getting regular professional cleanings.

If your teeth are already discolored, then it is a good idea to speak with one of our experienced cosmetic dentists. Our professionals can check your teeth and make recommendations on how to improve their appearance. Many options are available, so we will work with you to find one that is affordable and effective.

Request an appointment here: https://lbfamilydental.com or call Leila Zamiri DDS at (562) 387-1216 for an appointment in our Long Beach office.

Recent Posts

Three Reasons Not To Use Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening Products

Over-the-counter teeth whitening products can cause teeth sensitivity, gum irritation, and undesirable results. Instead, it is best to visit a licensed dentist for teeth whitening treatment. They can ensure the safety and effectiveness of teeth whitening treatment. While it may be tempting to try and save a few dollars on a store-bought whitening kit, it is…

Cosmetic Dentistry Questions: At Home Teeth Whitening Pens - How Do They Work?

Years of drinking coffee and tea can cause unsightly, stained teeth. Many people are looking for easy and affordable ways to brighten up their smile by whitening their teeth. There are so many products on the market it can be hard to know what will actually work. Also, do you know which products are safe…

Go To An Emergency Dentist For A Gum Laceration

An emergency dentist may be necessary. The tissue that makes up your gums does not grow back, so it can be scary in the unlikely event that you get lacerated on your gums. To clarify, a cut that comes from everyday activities such as flossing, brushing your teeth too vigorously, or biting down wrongly on…

Tooth-Colored Dental Filling Options

Tooth-colored dental fillings are the popular way to fill up cavities these days. Silver amalgam fillings have been the norm for the past 150 years, but a lot has changed since better alternatives emerged. Silver amalgam fillings contain mercury which is now known to be toxic to the body. It also has a grey color…


Recent Posts

Go To An Emergency Dentist For A Gum Laceration

Go To An Emergency Dentist For A Gum Laceration

An emergency dentist may be necessary. The tissue that makes up your gums does not grow back, so it can be scary in the unlikely event that you get lacerated on your gums. To clarify, a cut that comes from everyday activities such as flossing, brushing your teeth too vigorously, or biting down wrongly on…

Tooth Colored Dental Filling Options

Tooth-Colored Dental Filling Options

Tooth-colored dental fillings are the popular way to fill up cavities these days. Silver amalgam fillings have been the norm for the past 150 years, but a lot has changed since better alternatives emerged. Silver amalgam fillings contain mercury which is now known to be toxic to the body. It also has a grey color…