A bright smile is usually the very first thing people notice when you walk into a room. To achieve such a head-turning smile, many people turn to cosmetic dentistry or over-the-counter whitening products to make their teeth look brighter. But with so much information online, it’s hard to know what’s true and what’s not. Let’s clear up some common teeth whitening myths so you can make the best choices for your smile.
If you’re ready to enhance your appearance with professional whitening treatments, call Dr. Julie Glud at Dental Care of Lombard today. Our five-star dentist in Lombard, IL, offers advanced whitening solutions to deliver stunning results in just one appointment. So, go ahead – dial (630) 629-5700 to request a consultation with Dr. Glud today!
Myth #1: Teeth Whitening Damages Your Enamel
Many people worry that teeth whitening will harm their enamel. The truth? Professional whitening treatments are safe when administered by a trained dental expert.
Our Lombard cosmetic dentist uses whitening agents that lift stains without hurting your teeth.
But here’s what you need to know: Overuse of store-bought whitening products, however, can lead to sensitivity and gum irritation. So, always follow the instructions on the packaging, and talk to our dentist in Lombard, IL, before using any over-the-counter whitening products.
Myth #2: Baking Soda is the Best Natural Whitener
Some people swear by baking soda for teeth whitening. While baking soda is capable of buffing away surface stains, it is also abrasive and can wear down enamel over time.
If you want a natural way to brighten your smile, try eating crunchy fruits and vegetables instead. Apples, carrots, and celery help scrub away stains without damaging enamel.
Myth #3: Lemon Juice and Strawberries Whiten Teeth
You may have seen DIY (do it yourself) whitening tips that include lemon juice or mashed strawberries. This sounds like a fun, natural way to whiten teeth, but it’s not a good idea.
Both lemons and strawberries are very acidic and can weaken your enamel. This can actually make your teeth look more yellow over time. Stick with safe, dentist-approved teeth whitening methods instead.
Myth #4: Activated Charcoal is a Miracle Whitener
Many social media influencers promote activated charcoal for teeth whitening. While it can remove some surface stains, it is very abrasive. Over time, it can wear down enamel, leading to more harm than good.
If you want whiter teeth, professional treatments with Dr. Glud or dentist-approved whitening toothpaste are much safer choices.
Myth #5: Whitening Toothpaste Works as Well as Professional Treatments
Wouldn’t that be nice? Unfortunately, while whitening toothpaste can help remove surface stains, it does not deeply whiten your teeth.
Professional teeth whitening treatments, however, use stronger, prescription-strength ingredients that penetrate deeper into the enamel. If you’re looking for a dramatic change, whitening toothpaste alone won’t do the trick.
Myth #6: You Can Whiten Crowns, Veneers, and Fillings
Unfortunately, teeth whitening treatments only work on natural teeth. If you have crowns, veneers, or fillings, their color will not change. If your dental work no longer matches your natural teeth, you may need to talk to Dr. Glud about replacing them.
Myth #7: Whitening Lasts Forever
Even professional teeth whitening treatments won’t last forever, although you may experience months or even years of a brighter smile. Red wine, black tea, coffee, and smoking can stain your teeth over time, leaving you with a darker smile.
To keep your smile bright:
- Avoid staining foods and drinks
- Brush after meals
- Consider touch-up treatments at Dental Care of Lombard as needed.
Myth #8: The Stronger the Whitening Gel, the Better
Stronger is not always better when it comes to teeth whitening. Some people think using more whitening gel or leaving it on longer will get better results. This can actually cause tooth sensitivity and gum irritation. Always follow the instructions to avoid damage to your teeth and gums.
Myth #9: Whitening Rinses and Gums Work Well
There are many whitening mouthwashes and chewing gums on the market. While they may help freshen your breath, they are not powerful enough to make a big difference in teeth whitening.
If you want real, lasting results, schedule a professional treatment with Dr. Glud.
Myth #10: Everyone’s Teeth Can Become Super White
Some people expect teeth whitening to give them a movie-star smile, but not everyone’s teeth will turn bright white. The natural color of your teeth and past stains affect how well whitening works. Some people may get a slight improvement, while others see big changes. Be realistic about your results.
What Really Works for Teeth Whitening?
Now that we’ve busted some myths, let’s talk about what actually works for teeth whitening.
1. Professional Whitening Treatments in Lombard, IL
The fastest and most effective way to whiten your teeth is with Dr. Glud at Dental Care of Lombard. Our in-office treatments use strong whitening agents that give quick, noticeable results. If you want long-lasting whiteness, this is your best bet.
2. Whitening Strips and Trays
Over-the-counter whitening strips and trays can also work well, as long as you are consistent. They take longer to show results compared to professional treatments, but they are a good option if you want to whiten your teeth at home.
3. Whitening Toothpaste
While it probably won’t deliver dramatic results, whitening toothpaste can help remove minor stains and keep your smile bright between professional treatments.
4. Good Oral Hygiene
The best way to keep your teeth white is to take care of them, which requires twice-daily brushing, daily flossing, and regular visits with Dr. Glud. Trust us – a clean mouth is a bright mouth!
5. Avoid Staining Foods and Drinks
Dark foods and drinks (like berries, black tea, red wine, and coffee) can discolor your teeth. If you enjoy these treats, use a straw or rinse your mouth with water afterward to prevent stains.
A Whiter Smile Is Possible at Dental Care of Lombard
There are many myths about teeth whitening, but not all of them are true. The best way to get a bright smile is to stick with safe, proven methods, like professional whitening treatments at Dental Care of Lombard.
Ready for a gleaming smile? Request an appointment with Dr. Glud here, or call our dental clinic in Lombard, IL, at (630) 629-5700 to get started.
