Teeth come in a variety of shades and tones naturally, but you can’t put a price on the benefits of a bright, beautiful smile. Over-the-counter teeth whitening products are convenient solutions to combat tooth discoloration, but there’s a lot of misinformation about them. You only get one set of permanent teeth. Don’t risk them with false information about OTC whitening kits. Here are the facts you need behind the most common over-the-counter whitening myths.
Myth: Teeth Whitening Works on All Stains
Not all stains are the same because they can be caused by various factors, like genetics, lifestyle habits, or age. As a result, not all stains respond to teeth whitening. You could be wasting time and money trying to improve discoloration that won’t respond to whitening agents.
Myth: OTC Whitening Products are Safe for Everyone
Over-the-counter whitening products are considered safe when used according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. However, not everyone is a candidate for teeth whitening. If you have any untreated dental issues, like tooth decay or gum disease, whitening treatments can cause discomfort or worsen the problems. It’s best to visit your dentist to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy before any whitening treatment, including store-bought kits.
Myth: OTC Teeth Whitening Doesn’t Damage Your Teeth
Over-the-counter products can damage your teeth if you overuse them. Not to mention, some whitening products are abrasive or acidic, which can erode your enamel. Once your enamel is lost, it’s gone for good because it cannot regenerate.
Myth: OTC Whitening Products are Effective
You’ve probably seen a few ads showing the improvement specific products are said to provide, but you can’t believe everything you see. OTC products don’t contain professional-strength whitening agents, including strips, gels, toothpaste, and mouthwash. Any improvement you see will be minimal and won’t last.
Myth: Teeth Whitening Works on Restorations
Whether professional or OTC, whitening treatments will not work on restorations because they aren’t porous, like your enamel. They can whiten your natural teeth, which can cause your restorations to stick out like a sore thumb. Not to mention, they can weaken the bonding material holding your restorations in place.
Skip the risks of over-the-counter products and remedies. Instead, visit your cosmetic dentist for professional teeth whitening. They’ll ensure you’re a candidate for treatment to get your teeth significantly whiter. You’ll enjoy noticeable results that can last for many months or years with the correct care, like brushing and flossing.
About Dr. Gerald T. Shinkawa
Dr. Shinkawa earned his dental degree from the University of the Pacific at the Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry. Over the past 45 years, he has regularly continued his education to provide the latest innovations in dentistry, like cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, and periodontics. He is an active member of many professional organizations, including the American Dental Association. Request an appointment online or call (559) 272-4441 to see if teeth whitening is right for you.