Hello,
I was walking through the aisles of a local pharmacy here at Mount Annan and saw a wide range of teeth whitening products. From toothpastes that claimed to whiten and brighten teeth, to heavily discounted take home kits that claim to transform your teeth from crusty yellowish brown to sparkling translucent white.
With so many products, claims and propositions out there, it’s wise to note that some are viable, true and accurate, whilst others are blatantly misleading, false and exploitative. Today I’ll be diving into the truth about teeth whitening, and uncover what said companies, brands and other dentists might not be telling you.
Firstly, let me clearly state that teeth whitening is not dangerous or harmful to your teeth. When done correctly, teeth whitening is a safe procedure. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to understand that not all teeth whitening methods are created equal. Over-the-counter products, for instance, can sometimes lead to gum irritation and increased tooth sensitivity if used incorrectly or too frequently. This is because these products often contain higher concentrations of bleaching agents, which can be harsh on your gums and enamel if not used as directed.
Another fact that often goes unmentioned is that teeth whitening is not a one-size-fits-all solution. The effectiveness of teeth whitening varies from person to person, depending on the type of discolouration. Yellowish teeth tend to bleach well, brownish-coloured teeth bleach moderately well, while greyish-hued teeth may not bleach well at all. This is due to the fact that different types of stains respond differently to bleaching agents. For instance, stains caused by aging or tobacco use may be more difficult to remove than those caused by certain foods or drinks.
Many people believe that the whiter their teeth, the healthier they are. This is a misconception. The natural colour of teeth varies from person to person and is determined by the thickness and translucency of the enamel, the health of the dentin beneath it, and your overall oral hygiene. Overly white teeth are not necessarily healthier or stronger than naturally coloured teeth. In fact, overly bleached teeth can sometimes appear translucent or blueish, which is not a sign of healthy teeth.
It’s also important to note that teeth whitening is not permanent. Depending on your lifestyle and eating habits, the whitening effect can last from a few months to a few years. Regular consumption of coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco can stain your teeth and reduce the longevity of the whitening effect. To maintain the results of teeth whitening, it’s recommended to avoid these staining agents as much as possible and to maintain good oral hygiene.
Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, teeth whitening should not replace regular dental check-ups and oral hygiene. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are essential for maintaining a healthy mouth. Teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure that can enhance your smile, but it does not treat underlying dental issues such as cavities, gum disease, or tooth decay.
Basically, teeth whitening is a safe and effective way to enhance your smile when done correctly and under the supervision of a dental professional. However, it’s important to have realistic expectations and understand that it’s not a cure-all solution for dental health. Remember, the best way to a healthy, beautiful smile is through regular dental care and good oral hygiene.
At Mount Annan Dental, we offer take-home custom whitening kits as an alternative to in-chair teeth whitening. These kits provide a more personalised treatment, with custom retainers made from impressions of your teeth, ensuring even distribution of the whitening gel. Our kits offer convenience and flexibility, allowing you to whiten your teeth at your own pace at home. They also include enough gel for touch-ups, enabling long-term maintenance of the whitening results. After the procedure, we’ll give you detailed instructions on how to maintain your whitened teeth, including good oral hygiene practices and regular dental check-ups. At Mount Annan Dental, we prioritise your safety, comfort, and satisfaction, providing the ultimate teeth whitening experience and results.
Stay tuned for more dental truths and tips.
Yours sincerely,
Dr. Steven Krajewski
