Who doesn’t want whiter teeth? After all, it’s one of the best parts of a healthy looking smile. There are a myriad of products on the market today that promise whiter teeth. That’s because teeth whitening is a proven way to refresh the way you look and make you more self-confident. Still, there are many myths surrounding this wildly popular procedure. Let’s get to the bottom of some of the more common misconceptions.
- Myth #1: Teeth whitening wears away tooth enamel
Fact: Actually, the ingredients that help whiten teeth open up the pores in tooth enamel where it then gets rid of stains in the inner dentin surface and gets rinsed away completely. Over the next couple of days, the pores then close up naturally without any damage to your tooth enamel. - Myth #2: Whitening makes your teeth sensitive
Fact: You’ll likely feel some sensitivity for a couple of days afterward, but it won’t last. During the first 48 hours, take ibuprofen for any discomfort and try desensitizing toothpaste. - Myth #3: It only takes one treatment
Fact: Sadly, no. What you eat plays a big role in how white your teeth remain. Food and drink that’s highly pigmented like red wine, coffee, blueberries and raspberries can impact the color of your teeth. Avoid these foods to keep your teeth looking as white as possible. And be sure to visit your dentist twice a year for regular cleanings. - Myth #4: My fillings will stand out
Fact: It’s true that you can’t minimize silver looking amalgam fillings, but teeth whitening can actually help composite filling blend in with your teeth a little better. - Myth #5: Teeth whitening eliminates the need for regular checkups
Fact: Don’t even think about it. Teeth whitening creates a beautiful smile, but it doesn’t replace regular checkups. The buildup of plaque and bacteria still happens even if you don’t whiten your teeth, so you still need to brush twice daily and floss regularly to maintain that perfect smile.
To learn more about teeth whitening options, we welcome the opportunity to meet with you. To schedule an appointment, please contact Scott T. LeSueur, DDS & Charles A Dodaro, DDS online or by calling our Mesa office at (480) 834-6991 today. We serve Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, and all surrounding Arizona communities.