Myths About Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is one of the most common cosmetic dental procedures and one which is growing in popularity every year. There are several reasons for this–whiter teeth and the resulting bright and shining smile can increase the patient’s confidence and quality of life. Generally speaking, teeth whitening is an easy procedure performed with minimal discomfort to the patient, and treatment can be completed with a trip or two to the dentist.

While there’s a lot to be said for teeth whitening, there are also some popular myths and misunderstandings about the procedure and how it works. Some of these myths may be off-putting to new patients, so let’s take a look at some of the myths about teeth whitening and hopefully make the procedure better understood and more user-friendly.

I can’t afford teeth whitening!

While there are a number of approaches to teeth whitening, some of which can cost thousands of dollars, in general teeth whitening procedures are far more affordable. Some insurance does cover teeth whitening, further decreasing the cost to the patient. Talk to your dentist about teeth whitening and what it might cost you for a better idea of what your individual expenses might be.

I can’t have my teeth whitened because I have too much dental work/partials/veneers/etc!

This is a common myth about teeth whitening, and it’s not as true as many folks insist that it is. While existing dental prosthetics may limit which teeth whitening treatments can be used, it doesn’t make it impossible. Your dentist might suggest a milder, multi-step treatment rather than conventional chemical bleaching. This can remove stains and discoloration without damaging your teeth or dental prosthetics.

I’m too busy!

We hear this one often, and we get it. It’s a busy time for all of us, and the demands of work, family, and your social life may leave you feeling that you just don’t have time for a teeth whitening treatment. However, this myth about teeth whitening is just that, a myth. Most teeth whitening treatments aren’t overly time-consuming and can be completed in one or two trips to the dentist’s office.

You can whiten your own teeth using acidic fruits or some other home cure!

Please do not do this, as it can damage your teeth. Acidic fruits or other home treatments eat away at the enamel outer layer of your teeth. Enamel can’t grow back, so this damage is permanent and leaves you at risk for cavities, tooth decay, or even tooth loss.

Home whitening treatments work just as well!

Home whitening treatments can work, but they’re generally messy, inconvenient, and they often deliver inconsistent results. The best course of action is to see your dentist and get a professional whitening treatment. You’ll be happier with both the process and the results!

You only need a teeth whitening treatment once!

This generally isn’t the case. While a teeth whitening treatment can last a long time, you’ll need regular cleanings and occasional follow-up teeth whitening treatments to maintain your best results.

Teeth whitening is a common, useful dental procedure that can do a great deal to improve the life of the patient in question. While there are a number of myths about teeth whitening, we hope we’ve dispelled a few of them here. If you think teeth whitening is the right choice for you, get in touch and make an appointment today!