There is a lot of conversation around teeth whitening and while this would typically be a good thing, a lot of the information out there is false. As a result, many people have opinions about teeth whitening that are not true and it is important to set the record straight. Some common myths about teeth whitening are dispelled below:
Teeth whitening is not harmful to the teeth
Contrary to popular belief, teeth whitening does not harm the teeth; as long as it is done professionally and the chemicals are not used in excess. After every whitening session, the teeth remineralize and rehydrate naturally.
The teeth absorb stains that cannot be removed by brushing
The teeth have pores like the skin (or a sponge) and whatever you eat gets absorbed into these pores. Consuming colored foods actively stain the teeth and brushing cannot remove these stains. When specially designed whitening gel is applied to the teeth, it temporarily opens the pores and pushes the stains out.
Whitening may not make your teeth perfectly white
The natural color of your teeth has been set since you were born. Whitening can only remove the accumulated stains in your pores, it cannot make your teeth whiter than they are genetically designed to be.
Mild sensitivity is normal after a whitening procedure
During whitening, the teeth are temporarily dehydrated, leaving the tooth nerve susceptible to temperature changes. This leads to sensitivity. The teeth will rehydrate themselves, though, and sensitivity should stop after 12 to 36 hours.
To return your teeth (and your smile) to its former glory, visit a dentist today and get them whitened. Residents of Texas can get their teeth professionally whitened at the Lonestar Dental Center. Call 281-233-0333 to make an appointment.