Teeth Whitening: Myths vs. Reality
Looking for solutions to whiten and brighten your smile? At Highrise Dental, we offer a range of cosmetic dentistry solutions, including professional teeth whitening, to transform discolored teeth into beautiful, sparkling smiles. Here's a look at teeth whitening myths vs. reality to help you make informed decisions about your dental care.
Myth: Teeth Whitening Can Damage Your Tooth Enamel
When performed under the care of a dental professional, teeth whitening does not damage enamel. The active ingredients penetrate the enamel to break down stain molecules in the dentin, the layer beneath the enamel, but they do not erode or weaken the enamel itself. Improper use of over-the-counter products, especially those with abrasive ingredients, such as charcoal, can sometimes cause irreparable damage.
Myth: Professional Whitening Is Painful
While some temporary sensitivity can occur, professional whitening is not a painful process. Our team takes great precautions to protect your gums and soft tissues, and we adjust the treatment to minimize discomfort, especially for patients with pre-existing tooth sensitivity.
Myth: Natural Remedies Are Safer
Some people believe that natural teeth whitening remedies, such as lemon juice, activated charcoal, or baking soda, are safer for their teeth. Lemon juice is actually acidic, and its overuse can wear down your enamel and make your teeth more sensitive, while charcoal and baking soda contain abrasives that lift some surface stains but may damage your tooth enamel. Professional teeth whitening, on the other hand, has been shown to be one of the safest cosmetic dentistry procedures when performed under the care of a dental professional.
Myth: Whitening Toothpaste Works Just as Well as Professional Whitening
Whitening toothpaste contains mild abrasives that can remove surface stains, but it won't make a difference in the actual color of your teeth. Only professional treatments can lift deep stains from within your teeth, leaving you with real, lasting results.
Myth: Professional and Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening Work the Same
While over-the-counter teeth whitening products often promise dramatic transformations, many deliver inconsistent results. Moreover, some may contain harsh chemicals that cause serious damage to the gums and tooth enamel. Professional teeth whitening uses professional-grade whitening gels that safely and effectively lift tough stains, restoring your smile's sparkle.
Myth: Teeth Whitening Produces Permanent Results
No teeth whitening treatment is permanent. The results can last from six months to a few years, depending on your consumption of stain-causing foods and drinks, oral hygiene habits, and other lifestyle factors, such as smoking. You may require touch-up treatments to maintain your dazzling smile.
Myth: Whitening Leaves Your Teeth Looking Fake
Professional treatments are designed to whiten and brighten your teeth to a natural-looking shade. Our team at Highrise Dental will tailor the process to your unique needs, ensuring your smile looks bright without appearing artificial.
Myth: Anyone Can Whiten Their Teeth
While most people respond well to teeth whitening, some people may not be candidates. In general, discoloration from consuming dark foods or drinks or smoking produces the best results. However, those with gray or brown discoloration from trauma or certain medications may not achieve the desired results. Moreover, whitening cannot remove stains from tooth-colored restorations, such as fillings or crowns. If you are not a candidate for teeth whitening, Dr. Perno may recommend an alternative cosmetic dentistry solution, such as cosmetic bonding, dental veneers, or dental crowns.
Teeth Whitening Near Me in Phoenix, AZ
If you would like to learn more about transforming your smile with professional teeth whitening treatments, contact Highrise Dental to schedule a consultation. Dr. Perno will evaluate your unique needs and recommend the most conservative solution to deliver the smile of your dreams. We are always happy to answer your questions and address any concerns.
Are you ready to get started? We invite you to call us at 602-230-1161 to schedule your appointment or book one online today!