Since white teeth became the beauty standard, teeth whitening procedures have become very common. The market is saturated with everything from at-home teeth whitening kits to professional teeth whitening procedures. Here are 10 facts you should know about this technique:
1. At-home systems are not as effective as in-office ones
At-home systems may contain anywhere from 3% to 20% peroxide. This is because overexposure to peroxide can cause damage to the enamel, and only our dentist should handle those high-concentration systems to ensure that no harm is done. Teeth whitening solutions used by our dental specialist near you contain up to 43% peroxide for stronger whitening.
2. You must take special care of your teeth after whitening them
If you want the effects of teeth whitening to last, you must avoid certain foods and drinks such as dark liquids (tea, coffee, red wine, coke), acidic beverages, soy sauce, etc. Always consult our dentist near you if you are unsure if you should eat a certain food. It would help if you also avoid smoking at all costs. If you don’t follow these instructions, your teeth may become stained again.
3. If done correctly, your teeth won’t be damaged
A concern many people have about teeth whitening is its effects on enamel. The answer to this concern is that anything excessive can be harmful. Teeth whitening products, when used in the correct concentration and for an adequate time, won’t damage your teeth at all. To ensure this, you should have any of these procedures performed by our dentist near you.
4. You may experience some sensitivity
It is normal for you to experience sensitivity during the next 12-36 hours after a teeth whitening procedure. This is because the procedure dehydrates your teeth and doesn’t let them protect the underlying nerve from temperature changes. Rest assured that this will eventually pass.
5. It is not magical
If your teeth are severely stained, don’t expect them to become pearly white after just one procedure. Remember that these stains have been forming for years, and you may need a few appointments to disappear.
6. The colour of your teeth is determined by genes
Teeth whitening removes all the stains on your teeth that have accumulated over the years for countless reasons. However, the colour of your teeth is determined by your genes and can’t be drastically modified by this procedure, despite popular belief.
7. Teeth whitening only works on real teeth
If you have a crown, an implant or veneers, you should know that these do not respond to teeth whitening systems. There is no way to whiten them. If you want a lighter shade, speaking with our dentist about replacing them is the only way to achieve that.
8. Some people shouldn’t get their teeth whitened
This procedure is only for some. If you have sensitive teeth or suffer from gum disease, avoid it. Also, teens with baby teeth are not advised to whiten their teeth. Finally, pregnant or breastfeeding women should wait for teeth whitening near you.
9. Consistency is key
When you look for teeth whitening near you, you should know that this procedure is not a once-in-a-lifetime thing. If you want the effects to last, they should be performed at least every 6 months or according to our dentist’s advice.
10. It is best to perform the procedure at night
After teeth whitening, the pores in your teeth are more open, making them more prone to staining. Thus, the procedure at night guarantees that no food or drinks will be consumed and your teeth won’t be stained.