A bright, white smile is usually linked with your health, vitality, and youth. Because of this, teeth whitening has become a famous cosmetic dental procedure. But as online information surges, you can easily get misled by misconceptions regarding teeth whitening.  Seeing a dentist in Orange Park, FL regularly can help make informed decisions when it comes to teeth whitening by educating you about the facts. 

Myths About Teeth Whitening

The following are common myths about teeth whitening that can prevent you from achieving your desired smile:

  • You can rely on whitening toothpaste for optimal teeth whitening. A lot of people think that whitening toothpaste is quite effective in whitening your teeth. But this toothpaste only works to eliminate surface stains. They are made with abrasives to polish your teeth along with chemicals that break down stains on the surface of teeth. If you want a deeper, more obvious whitening effect, in-office teeth whitening is necessary. 
  • Teeth whitening treatments are made equal. Teeth whitening treatments tend to vary in effectiveness, cost, and safety. Over-the-counter products like whitening gels and strips may provide some enhancement; however, professional treatments provide more significant and dependable results. Your dentist can customize your treatment to suit your particular needs and oversee it to guarantee effectiveness and safely. 
  • You can whiten your teeth with baking soda and lemon juice. Although lemon juice and baking soda are considered natural whitening remedies, they can damage your teeth. The high acidity levels in lemon juice can erode your tooth enamel, resulting in increased sensitivity and dental cavities. While baking soda is less abrasive than lemon juice, it can still damage your teeth when you use too much of it. To ensure an effective and safe teeth whitening, consult with your dentist. 
  • Teeth whitening offers permanent results. While professional teeth whitening can offer lasting results, these are not permanent. How long the results will last depends on your hygiene habits and lifestyle. Consuming substances that can stain your teeth like coffee, red wine, tobacco, and tea can lead to teeth discoloration. To keep your smile white, get periodic touch-up treatments. 
  • Teeth whitening is harmful to the enamel. As long as teeth whitening is performed correctly, it doesn’t damage your tooth enamel. Professional whitening treatments are meant to be effective and safe. But using too many OTC products can result in enamel erosion and increase tooth sensitivity. You should follow your dentist’s guidance to make sure your teeth stay healthy while achieving your desired whiteness level. 

Choosing What Works for Teeth Whitening

When it comes to teeth whitening, in-office whitening offers the most effective, safest, and most long-lasting results. A dentist performs the procedure, which involves applying a high-concentration bleaching agent to your teeth. Also, your dentist can offer custom whitening kits that you can use at home. Such kits come with custom-made trays that perfectly fit your teeth and a professional-grade whitening gel. You will be provided with instructions on the safe use of the kit at home. 

Moreover, over-the-counter whitening products may still offer some improvement. You can get whitening strips, toothpaste, and gels on the market to remove surface stains. But you should use them as instructed to avoid possible side effects such as gum irritation and tooth sensitivity. 

If you want your whitening treatment to last for a long time, make lifestyle changes and practice good oral hygiene. By limiting your consumption of teeth-staining foods and drinks, not smoking, and sticking to a good oral hygiene routine, you can preserve the results of your treatment. Also, regular dental checkups can make sure your teeth stay white and healthy.