Debunking Myths About Professional Teeth Whitening

Professional teeth whitening is a common cosmetic dental procedure that gives patients beautiful white smiles. People with yellow, stained, or dingy teeth do not have to be self-conscious or worry about the appearance of their smile if they get professional teeth whitening. Even though the procedure is simple and very effective, there are still some professional teeth whitening myths that many people believe. These myths may prevent some people from getting professional teeth whitening treatments and some myths give patients unrealistic expectations.

One of the biggest professional teeth whitening myths is that once you have the treatment your teeth will remain white permanently. The truth is that color stability after a professional teeth whitening treatment really depends on how well you care for your teeth and your lifestyle choices. How well you clean your teeth after your professional teeth whitening treatment is a big factor in how long your teeth will stay white. The amount of stain causing foods and beverages you consume and other choices such as smoking also impact the length of time your teeth will stay white. If you do need to have your teeth whitened again after the initial treatment subsequent treatments are usually shorter.

Another misconception many people have about professional teeth whitening is that it will whiten veneers, bridges, white fillings, and other denture work. In reality only teeth are able to be whitened so if you have crowns, veneers, bridges, bonding, fillings or other dental work that matches your current tooth color you may need to have them replaced to match your new whiter teeth. Crowns, fillings, veneers, and other dental work can easily be replaced to match your whiter color but it is an important consideration before you get professional teeth whitening.

People of all ages can suffer from discolored teeth which lends to the common professional teeth whitening myth that anyone regardless of age can get a professional teeth whitening treatment. However, children and adolescents are often advised not to undergo professional teeth whitening because the nerve chamber is larger in childrens teeth and this can cause increased sensitivity and pain. Some types of treatments can cause more sensitivity than others so if your child needs teeth whitening it is important to consult a cosmetic dentist to discuss your options.