5 Common Teeth Whitening Myths

In recent years, teeth whitening has become much more common. In the past, having the whitest of teeth was seen as something only celebrities and rich people could achieve. With an increase in teeth whitening products and treatments, having a whiter smile is now a luxury any individual can attain. However, it may be hard for you to establish which methods are the safest and most effective. This article will establish and debunk some of the most common teeth whitening myths.

Does Bicarbonate Of Soda Whiten Teeth?

Bicarbonate of soda is frequently used in recipes for baking bread and cakes, and to remove stains and odours. The common household product can also be found in certain toothpastes and teeth whitening products. Bicarbonate of soda can definitely be effective for whitening teeth, but it can cause damage in the process. According to DenTek, if used continuously for long periods of time, it can cause serious damage to the enamel. Furthermore. Bicarbonate of soda doesn’t contain the fluoride needed to maintain strong teeth, meaning you will still have to use regular toothpaste to ensure your teeth stay strong and healthy.

Will Rubbing Fruit On Your Teeth Remove Stains?

Various individuals believe that rubbing certain fruits (such as lemons or strawberries) on your teeth can help to remove teeth stains. This is a myth. Not only does this process not remove stains, it is also extremely damaging to your teeth. Acids in foods such as fruits cause tooth enamel to wear away, leading to discoloration. Furthermore, acid softens your enamel; this means that brushing your teeth too soon after consuming acidic foods or drinks will speed up tooth wear.

Does Whitening Your Teeth Once Do The Trick?

Many people believe that you only need to whiten your teeth once in order to maintain your pearly whites indefinitely. This is a myth– consumption of stain causing food and drink, the natural ageing process of the teeth, and tobacco use are just three of many factors that can affect the whiteness of your teeth.

Can You Whiten Crowns And Fillings?

Dental crowns, fillings, and other restorations are made out of inorganic materials that don’t respond to whitening the same way real teeth do. If you think you need any restoration work on your teeth, it would be wise to whiten your teeth first so the crowns or fillings match with your newly-whitened teeth.

Do Teeth Whitening Products Cause Oral Cancer?

As whitening products contain chemicals, people often affiliate these chemicals with cancer. However, dentists regularly study, analyse and test whitening products; with the tests proving that this theory is a myth. Teeth whitening products don’t cause oral cancer.

In Summary:

• Bicarbonate of soda can be effective in whitening teeth, but it can also be damaging to your teeth in the process.
• Rubbing fruits such as lemons or strawberries on your teeth will actually damage your teeth. This is due to their acidic properties, meaning your teeth’s enamel will gradually wear away.
• Whitening your teeth once won’t last forever.
• You can’t whiten dental crowns or fillings because they are made out of inorganic materials.
• Teeth whitening products don’t cause oral cancer.