Having whiter and brighter teeth has become one of the top aesthetic priorities of most Australians. Teeth can become discoloured due to numerous factors such as age, poor oral hygiene, coffee, tea, wine, medications and trauma. Teeth whitening is a simple and the least invasive procedure to enhance the beauty of your smile, look younger or to help you show off your pearly whites for a special occasion.
Teeth whitening products are everywhere these days! Shopping centres, supermarkets, online stores, facebook ads all claiming to offer teeth whitening solutions. With all these options, you’re probably thinking – What will work for me? How are they different? Which does the best job? Which offers the best value? Before you brighten your smile with teeth whitening, there are things you need to know.
Myth 1: Fruit used to whiten teeth. Rubbing fruit onto your teeth such as crushed strawberries banana peels or brush with lemon juice/apple cider vinegar may appear effectual initially. However, this approach is very acidic, which in turn destroys your precious enamel.
Myth 2: Using Charcoal or Baking Soda to whiten your teeth. These over-abrasive substances destroy enamel!
Myth 3: Whitening teeth with coconut oil. Although there may be other health benefits, there is no evidence to prove that coconut oil whitens teeth.
Myth 4: Professional dental whitening will damage my teeth enamel. Peroxide has been used for decades by dentists to treat gum disease due to its antimicrobial properties. When this was first used, dentists noticed the incredible whiter and brighter results on tooth enamel. There has never been any reported damage to tooth structure, hence it is a very safe procedure when done in professional hands.
Myth 5: Cheap over the counter methods and shopping centre/beauty therapist treatment will achieve the same results. Prior to achieving a great result, the dentist needs to diagnose the cause/type of discolouration. There are many different methods to treat various stains. Furthermore, as of 2013 only dentists are allowed to use solutions greater than 6% hydrogen peroxide due to an increasing number of injuries from non-dentists using the stronger products. These stronger concentrations achieve more dramatic results in a shorter period of time.
Myth 6: All professional systems are the same. The latest in chair whitening technology – Phillips Zoom™, as well as take-home whitening options differ in concentrations and results.
Choosing a professional treatment such as ZOOM has many benefits over take home trays including:
- Administered by your qualified dental professional
- Proven safe and effective on teeth and gums
- Maximum whitest smile within the hour
- Light activated technology to accelerate whitening for powerful results in minimal time
- Customised intensity settings for your complete comfort
Always consult a qualified professional before choosing the right teeth whitening option for you.
Dr Slav.
