Myth or Fact: Teeth Whitening Edition

Teeth whitening is one of the most common cosmetic dental treatments because it offers fast and trusted results, but there are so many rumors out there that say otherwise, it’s hard to tell who to believe! If you’re wondering how to separate fact from fiction, look no further. Below, you can find some of the most common statements made about this cosmetic procedure, but can you guess whether these statements are true or not?

Home Teeth Whitening Remedies Work

While this may be true, there’s a reason to call this statement a myth, and it’s because home teeth whitening concoctions can cause serious damage to your teeth if you’re not careful. They often contain abrasive and acidic ingredients like apple cider vinegar, lemon, and activated charcoal. The problem is that all of these are incredibly abrasive substances that could wear-down your enamel and make your pearly whites more susceptible to developing cavities and experiencing sensitivity to hot and cold items.

People with a Brighter Smile are More Likely to Nail a Job Interview

According to a study conducted by Kelton Research, people with a brighter, straighter smile are more likely to be hired or promoted at their job—so this is definitely a fact! Nearly 75 percent of participants in the study stated that they are more likely to trust someone who has a nice smile.

Professional Teeth Whitening Takes Just as Long as OTC Kits

This is an easy one—it’s a myth! Professional teeth whitening administered by a cosmetic dentist offers significantly faster results than over-the-counter teeth whitening kits that you can buy from a department store. They utilize highly concentrated ingredients that can make your smile several shades brighter without damaging your teeth, all within about an hour. Even if you choose a take-home kit administered by your dentist, these also work faster, and they provide lasting results that you just can’t achieve with most store-bought whitening products.

Teeth Whitening Causes Dental Sensitivity

While this may be true about store-bought teeth whitening kits that aren’t used correctly, it’s definitely a myth when it comes to professional teeth whitening. Products used by dentists have been heavily vetted, clinically-tested, and proven to be safe and effective for your smile. While you may experience some slight sensitivity after treatment, your teeth will soon feel back to normal as they adjust.

Knowing the difference between fact and fiction can help you make the best decisions for your smile, which is why it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional if you have any questions or concerns about a procedure!

About the Author

Dr. Gustavo Arrechea understands just how big of an impact a discolored smile can have on someone’s self-confidence and mental wellbeing, which is why he offers a wide array of cosmetic treatments to address these types of imperfections, including professional teeth whitening. He enjoys seeing his patients’ reactions when they see their smile for the first time after a treatment, which makes cosmetic procedures some of his favorites to perform. For questions or to schedule a consultation and learn more about teeth whitening, visit Daily Smiles Dental’s website or call 214-233-9460.