Everyone wants to have a smile that is bright and white, and now more than ever, there are options for at-home teeth whitening. However, like with any fad, DIY teeth whitening myths and misconceptions have also arisen.

In order to help you make educated decisions regarding your dental health, we’ll address four of the most widespread misconceptions about DIY teeth whitening in this blog.

Myth #1: DIY teeth whitening damages tooth enamel.

One of the most widespread misconceptions about DIY teeth whitening is that it will harm tooth enamel. While certain DIY teeth whitening techniques, such as utilizing lemon juice or baking soda, may be hazardous, many are completely safe when used appropriately. For instance, whitening strips have undergone comprehensive testing and have been shown to be safe when used as directed.

Even professional teeth whitening techniques can result in temporary tooth sensitivity, but this is not the same as enamel degradation, which is important to note. Before attempting any DIY teeth whitening technique, consult with your dentist near you if you have any concerns about its safety.

Myth #2: DIY teeth whitening is not as effective as professional whitening.

Although professional teeth whitening near you can achieve results more quickly and dramatically than do-it-yourself techniques, this does not imply that DIY teeth whitening is worthless. In reality, a variety of at-home teeth whitening products, including whitening gels and strips, can yield remarkable results over time. Just make sure to carefully follow the directions given by our dentist in Shawnessy and exercise patience because it can take a few weeks to get the full effects.

Myth #3: DIY teeth whitening is expensive.

Another prevalent fallacy regarding DIY teeth whitening is that it’s expensive. While certain professional teeth whitening in Shawnessy methods can be pricey, many at-home teeth whitening options are relatively reasonable. For instance, whitening toothpaste often costs no more than a few dollars over regular toothpaste, while whitening strips and gels are typically less than $50.

Myth #4: DIY teeth whitening is only for young people.

The idea that DIY teeth whitening is only for teenagers is a common misconception. In fact, regardless of age, anyone can benefit from at-home teeth whitening. Because of things like coffee, tea, and red wine intake, our teeth naturally darken and discolor as we age. DIY teeth whitening can assist in mitigating these effects while restoring a smile that is more vibrant and youthful.

FAQs

1. Is the process harmful to my teeth?

In general, tooth whitening kits are not harmful to teeth. However, using both over-the-counter and dentist-administered whitening products has the potential to cause short-term sensitivity in the teeth and gums.

2. Is professional whitening painful?

The good thing about teeth whitening is that the process itself is completely painless, allowing you to relax. It’s comforting to know that getting teeth whitening treatment can increase your self-confidence without causing any difficulty.

3.How can I maintain whitened teeth?

Here are a few steps to maintain your teeth’s whiteness after your teeth whitening session:

  • Practice good oral hygiene practices.
  • Avoid consuming foods or drinks that can stain your teeth
  • Make use of whitening toothpaste.
  • When drinking stains-causing beverages, consider using a straw.
  • After consuming stained meals, rinse your mouth with water. 
  • Consume foods that can brighten your teeth.

Conclusion

While doing your own teeth whitening may seem like a practical and affordable alternative, it’s crucial to proceed with caution. Avoid employing useless and sometimes hazardous techniques like oil pulling, lemon, baking soda, and activated charcoal. Instead, think about getting dentist-approved, at-home whitening kits or professional teeth-whitening treatment from our experts at Summit Dental. Always remember that it’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your dental health!