Teeth whitening is a popular form of cosmetic dentistry that can brighten enamel multiple shades in just one office visit. Because so many people are after a brighter smile, a fair amount of misinformation has emerged about the practice in recent years. Here are some of the most common myths and the truths behind them.

Teeth Whitening Myths Debunked

1. You Can Whiten Any Tooth

Lots of factors determine just exactly how much your teeth will whiten from different treatments. Some people naturally have darker shades of dentin, which is the second layer underneath the enamel outer layer. Those darker shades of can show through the outer enamel layer and affect the overall shade and cannot be whitened with some whitening products. Another example is that people who have existing restorations in teeth will notice that while their teeth are whitening, their restorations (crowns or fillings) will remain the same.

2. You Can Whiten With Home Remedies

Recently, DIY videos have sprung up, hailing the use of charcoal and other unusual substances to whiten teeth. The American Dental Association warns against these “natural” whitening solutions. Household solutions like lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, or baking soda can harm the enamel because they are too acidic or abrasive to be applied directly to the teeth. Using materials such as activated charcoal can also cause harm, wearing away the enamel and potentially exposing the yellow dentin underneath.

3. People With Sensitive Teeth Shouldn’t Try It

While it’s true that teeth whitening can lead to or worsen existing sensitivity temporarily, your dentist may still be able to provide a solution that meets your needs. The stronger the whitening product, the more likely it is to cause sensitivity. If you have sensitive teeth, your dentist can customize a milder product. While it may take a bit longer to achieve your desired results, you’ll be able to show off a glowing smile without discomfort.

If you’re interested in exploring the benefits of professional teeth whitening, turn to Beard & Holmen in Monroe County, IL. Serving the Waterloo community, this practice offers general dentistry services as well as cosmetic solutions, including Philips Zoom! Whitening and professional custom kits for home use. View their whitening options online or call (618) 939-7181 to schedule an appointment.