Teeth Whitening: Myths & Facts

Teeth whitening is the best way to have a perfectly bright smile. However, some people are scared of this procedure because of a lack of knowledge or an excess of diverse opinions about it. So, people should know the common myths and facts related to this procedure. After all, we all want to have bright white teeth.

Teeth Whitening Myths

The myths about teeth whitening are:

● Teeth Whitening Tends to Erode Tooth Enamel

Teeth whitening generally means oxygen whitening. It is considered one of the safest and most effective methods of all. Active oxygen has a strong whitening ability that can decolorize the pigment that stains the enamel and breaks apart soft plaque that forms after a meal. Enamel abrasion happens only after choosing mechanical whitening procedures.

● Any Teeth are Eligible for a Teeth Whitening Procedure

Teeth whitening depends on the dental health of every person. If pigments are formed because of antibiotics, other drugs, and fillings in the teeth, they cannot be whitened again. The defects are only corrected by using veneers or similar structures in these cases.

● Teeth With Fillings are Impossible to Whiten

If your teeth are healthy even with fillings in them, they can still be whitened. Only the fillings cannot be whitened. So, you’ll need to update your fillings after the treatment. Pick the fillings according to the color of your teeth's enamel.

Teeth Whitening Facts

The facts about teeth whitening are:

● Teeth Can be Whitened at Home

Various teeth whitening products can help you whiten your teeth at home. The most effective one is teeth whitening toothpaste that contains the components used by professional dentists in the procedure.

● There are Restrictions for the Procedure

People who are under 18 years of age, pregnant, allergic to specific components, have severe dental decay, or have discolored teeth due to particular medicines are restricted from the procedure. You need to consult your dentist before undergoing the treatment.

● Tooth Enamel and Dentine Have Permeable Structure

In the whitening procedure, pores of the enamel open up. Then, active oxygen yields the dentine through dentine tubules splitting pigment spots. After the procedure, the tubules stay open. It increases the sensitivity in the teeth and makes the enamel vulnerable to coloring. For filling the enamel, a gel containing minerals having a similar structure to the enamel is used.

Even though you know about the myths and facts related to teeth whitening, consult your dentist before using any oral hygiene or whitening products. 

For more details and comprehensive dental services, contact Jolly Family Dental at (501) 758-7462. You can also book online or visit 4601 Fairway Ave, North Little Rock, AR 72116.