Hey! It’s Dr. Michael Webster back again with some more dental insights for you. Today, I want to talk about all things related to teeth whitening. Teeth whitening has been one of the most popular dental treatments in recent years thanks to its appealing promise of a brighter, more attractive smile–I mean, who doesn’t want that?
However, as teeth whitening has grown in popularity, so has the potential for misinformation to spread about it. In this blog, I’ll clear up some common myths that patients ask about, present the facts about teeth whitening, and explore the safe, effective cosmetic dental solutions provided by Kelowna Dental Centre.
Let’s get into it!
Common Myths about Teeth Whitening
So, what exactly are the teeth-whitening myths we debunk all the time? Well, I’ve listed three of our most popular questions below and the teeth-whitening facts to go along with them:
- Whitening treatments harm tooth enamel: We hear this fear from our patients because they’ve been told that specific cosmetic dentistry treatments fail to incorporate a comprehensive view of oral health. The reality is that if the whitening treatment is completed by a professional, it’s unlikely to cause enamel damage. When you work with our team, we can accurately assess the level of whitening needed for your existing tooth and gum health and consequently plan for a safe and effective treatment. So rest assured, if you do it professionally, whitening your teeth won’t harm your teeth’s enamel.
- Charcoal Toothpaste Works: This is a myth that really grinds my gears. Charcoal toothpaste had its moment in the sun, but there just isn’t enough scientific evidence that it works or is even remotely beneficial for your overall dental health. It was a fad when it surfaced and it remains a fad for anyone still hoping for pearly whites on account of charcoal toothpaste. Our advice? Skip the charcoal, save your money, and invest in proven treatments that you can be confident will actually support your desired results.
- Teeth whitening lasts forever: As much as I wish this were true, teeth whitening is not a “forever” treatment. This misconception often comes from the belief that if you’re getting a clinic-level treatment similar to orthodontics, the results will also last a lifetime. When it comes to teeth whitening, ongoing treatments are typically needed to remove the daily wear and tear our teeth experience. That said, professionally administered whitening treatments can last several months if you’re keeping up your daily care. When you come in to see us, we’ll build you a custom long-term teeth whitening plan to ensure you’re topping up when needed.
Professional Teeth Whitening Solutions
Professional whitening uses high concentrations of whitening agents and is applied under carefully controlled conditions, ensuring maximum effectiveness and minimal risk. Using over-the-counter treatments makes it much more difficult to control the amount of whitening agents and refine the treatment relative to your personal whitening needs.
This uncertainty factor makes over-the-counter options more risky when it comes to causing long-term damage, like worsening teeth sensitivity. At Kelowna Dental Centre, we offer a range of professional teeth whitening options that are effective and optimized for safety and long-lasting results. These powerful whitening agents work to remove stubborn stains and discoloration, revealing a radiant, vibrant smile.
Customization and Safety in Professional Whitening
Each whitening session at our clinic is tailored to meet the individual needs of our patients. We consider factors like your teeth’s existing shade and whitening goals. Plus, we’ll build your teeth whitening plan around other treatments if needed. So whether you’re completing a full smile transformation or simply maintaining general dentistry, your treatment plan will be 100% customized to deliver the best results.
Since safety and functionality are our top priority for all cosmetic treatments, we take extra precautions when completing a whitening treatment. From protecting the gum tissue to checking in with your comfort level, we’ll tailor the entire process to you.
Caring for Your Whitened Teeth
Good oral hygiene and lifestyle habits are key to maintaining the results of your teeth whitening treatment. I know no one likes to hear it, but I recommend being mindful when consuming stain-causing foods and beverages such as coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco. And if you can’t quit your daily cup of joe (join the club!), make sure to use a straw as often as possible to limit teeth exposure.
When it comes to your day-to-day, regular brushing, flossing, and using a natural mouthwash can help maintain your bright smile. On top of healthy daily habits, periodic touch-ups, whether through in-office treatments or take-home kits, can also help prolong the whitening benefits.
Achieve Your Brightest Smile at Kelowna Dental Centre
Being in the loop about the myths and facts about teeth whitening should give you more know-how when it comes to finding the right treatment for you. Generally, professional teeth whitening is a safe and proven way to achieve a refreshed and bright smile.
If you have more questions about teeth whitening or want to know more about treatment plan options, get in touch with us today, and we’d be happy to chat!
Want to book your teeth whitening appointment? Click here. We can’t wait to care for you!
Dr. Michael Webster
Kelowna Dental Centre Owner
General Dentist
Family Dentist
Dental Implants Dentist
Smile Makeover Dentist
