When you’re taking a selfie and smile, do notice that your pearly whites have become more dull or yellow? If so, you’ve probably considered teeth whitening but may have put it off by the several different myths and misconceptions. Many people may get nervous or scared about whitening, but in all reality it’s a safe dental procedure. To help you decipher the myths from the truth, I have complied a list of myths surrounding teeth whitening.
Myth #1: Teeth whitening harms your tooth enamel.
Fact: It’s a common misconception that teeth whitening works by essentially melting off or laser-zapping the outer layer of your tooth enamel, which is completely untrue. Tooth bleaching actually works by opening the pores in your teeth and allowing the cleaning agent to get into the inner structure and clean it of the stains. Over time the pores in your teeth will close again.
Myth #2: If your teeth are sensitive, you should skip teeth whitening.
Fact: While you don’t have to, you may want to consider custom teeth whitening trays over over-the-counter products. This is mostly because patients have more control with their sensitivity using custom teeth whitening trays.
Myth #3: Teeth whitening work for everyone.
Fact: It’s a fact that everyone’s teeth darken with age, not just from coffee and wine, the outer layer of white enamel wears over time, allowing the natural yellow color of dentin to show through. With that being said, many people aren’t ideal candidates for teeth whitening due to the natural color that becomes exposed. However, there are other dental treatments that can whiten your teeth.
Myth #4: You can whiten crowns and fillings.
Fact: Unfortunately, this is untrue. Crowns, fillings and veneers cannot be whitened. If you do have to get a crown or veneer, many dentists suggest that you have your teeth whitened beforehand or to get a whiter shade of the restoration if you do plan on whitening your teeth.
Myth #5: Bleaching last forever.
Fact: Teeth whitening actually last up to two years but the whiteness begins to fade after about 2 to 3 months. It’s almost like getting your hair dyed, you still need to get touch ups every few months. Most dentist recommend that you should get your teeth touched up every 6 months. And if you’re a heavy coffee, soda or tea drinker or if you’re smoker, the luster will fade a lot quicker.
If you’re interested in teeth whitening treatments, contact Dr. Anthony Yamada DDS at 310-546-2595 to schedule a consultation today. Or visit www.anthonyyamadadds.com for additional information regarding teeth whitening.
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