Teeth whitening has become incredibly popular over the years attracting a wealth of interest and speculation as more and more people are opting for this cosmetic dentistry procedure. With a plethora of products and services on the market promising to give you those pearly whites you’ve always dreamed of, it can be a bit confusing to discern fact from fiction. In this regard, we sought the expert opinions of dental professionals from Bournemouth to demystify some of the widespread myths surrounding teeth whitening.

Myth 1: Whitening Damages the Teeth

Contrary to popular belief, teeth whitening procedures are not harmful when done appropriately. The professionals in Bournemouth affirm that some typical side effects such as transient sensitivity or gum irritation are temporary and are not indicative of any dental damage. The fact is, most teeth whitening treatments involve the use of hydrogen peroxide or a related compound called carbamide peroxide, which works by penetrating your tooth enamel to reach discolouration. In Bournemouth, dental professionals ensure the safety of your teeth by regulating the concentration levels of these bleaching agents, hence eliminating any potential harm.

Myth 2: Whitening Toothpaste Works Equally as Professional Treatments

While whitening toothpastes can remove some superficial stains, their effect is minimal compared to professional whitening treatments. This is because the concentration of whitening ingredients in these toothpastes is significantly lower than in professional-grade whitening treatments. Therefore, for significant whitening effects, it is recommended to seek professional treatments, which are highly regulated and safe.

Myth 3: All Teeth Whiten Equally

Unfortunately, we do not all have the same potential for gleaming pearly whites. Teeth whitening results can be influenced by initial tooth colour, cause of discolouration, and the permeability of your teeth to bleaching agents. While yellow-toned teeth are likely to whiten relatively well, brown or grey-toned teeth may not respond as favourable to whitening treatments.

Myth 4: Once Whitened, Teeth Stay White Forever

Bournemouth experts warn that improper post-procedure care can lead to the re-staining of your teeth. Maintaining your newly whitened teeth may require occasional touch-ups, along with adopting good oral hygiene practices and moderating the consumption of staining substances such as coffee, red wine, and tobacco.

Myth 5: Teeth Whitening is Painful

Teeth whitening isn’t usually painful. A common side effect of teeth whitening is sensitivity during or after the treatment, however, this is generally mild and temporary. Using a toothpaste for sensitive teeth can alleviate this discomfort.

In summary, teeth whitening is an effective dental procedure that can bring about a significant teeth whitening bournemouth positive change in your appearance. However, it is paramount to understand what the procedure entails and what to expect to avoid any unrealistic expectations or pitfalls. Consulting with experienced dental professionals in Bournemouth can provide the right guidance and deliver the best results possible in teeth whitening. By debunking the myths which lead to false perceptions and fears, one can step into the world of teeth whitening with confidence and an informed mind.