There seem to be new claims every day about teeth whitening. Still, many of these are simply clever, catchy marketing tactics with little to no data to back them up. In fact, many of these myths can actually cause harm to your smile.
Therefore, we are taking the opportunity to help you by busting some teeth whitening myths you may be seeing or hearing.
Teeth Whitening Myths Busted
Myth One: Fruit Can Whiten Teeth
Claims suggest that eating acidic fruits can help to whiten your smile. There is no scientific evidence to back this up. However, research shows the adverse effects of acid on our teeth. Acidic foods like lemon can actually harm the critical enamel on our teeth and lead to a plethora of dental issues.
Myth Two: Abrasive Agents
Scrubbing the stains away with products like charcoal or baking soda is not the way to whiten your smile. Again, this abrasion is not only going to potentially remove staining, but it will damage the vital enamel on the teeth. Remember, once enamel is gone, it’s gone for good.
Additionally, these abrasive agents may actually cause teeth to appear more yellow. The exact opposite result of what you were hoping for.
Myth Three: Coconut Oil and Tumeric
Like fruit, these oils and spices can be quite good for us. However, there is zero research to back these claims up that oil pulling and spices may whiten your smile.
Myth Four: At-Home Kits Work Just as Good
This is simply false since at-home whitening kits leave too much room for human error. At-home kits are also a one-size fits all approach which does not work. Every smile is unique and teeth whitening is unique from one patient to the next.
Myth Five: You can Whiten Crowns, Veneers, and Fillings
These are not “real” teeth and, therefore, will not whiten like natural teeth. If you attempt to whiten your smile at home and have false teeth, you may end up with uneven whitening and discoloring.
Professional Teeth Whitening is Best
If you want a whiter smile, asking your dentist is the best place to start. At Bassett Creek Dental, we are experts in cosmetic dentistry. We can help you safely achieve the smile you have always wanted. Learn more about professional teeth whitening today.
