Gangnam-gu Nonhyeon-dong Dental Clinic: Let’s Learn the Myths and Truths About Teeth Whitening

Gangnam-gu Nonhyeon-dong Dental Clinic: Let’s Learn the Myths and Truths About Teeth Whitening.

Hello.

This is Oks Dental Clinic.

White, bright teeth are a symbol of confidence for many people and one of the important factors that create a favorable impression.

So, more and more people are becoming interested in ‘teeth whitening.’

However, there are also quite a few people who hesitate because of incorrect information or misconceptions they have heard online or from those around them.

Today, we’ll let you know about the myths and truths regarding teeth whitening that many people have.

Myth 1.

Teeth whitening means filing down the teeth?

Truth: It does not grind down the teeth.

Teeth whitening is not a procedure that physically grinds or damages the surface of the teeth.

Hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide contained in professional whitening agents breaks down the pigments inside the teeth, restoring them to their original bright color.

In other words, it is safe because it removes only the pigments through oxidation without touching the teeth themselves.

Of course, it should be performed under the diagnosis and prescription of a professional to be effective and free of side effects.

Myth 2.

Whitening weakens the teeth?

Truth: It is safe when done properly.

After a teeth whitening procedure, temporary sensitivity may occur.

However, this is not because the teeth have become weaker, but because the whitening ingredients temporarily刺激 the surface of the teeth.

It usually goes away naturally within 1 to 3 days, and using a sensitivity reliever together can reduce it much more.

Myth 3.

Whitening results are permanent?

Truth: The effect is semi-permanent.

Teeth whitening is a procedure that brightens the color of the teeth; it does not permanently fix the color.

If exposed to factors that cause staining (coffee, smoking, pigmented foods, etc.), the teeth can darken again.

However, you can maintain bright teeth for a long time by doing maintenance whitening every 6 months to 1 year, reducing staining habits, and maintaining thorough oral hygiene.

Myth 4.

Are over-the-counter whitening products or toothpaste enough?

Truth: The effect is minimal or temporary.

Whitening toothpaste and whitening kits sold at drugstores or online have lower ingredient concentrations or limited effectiveness compared with professional dental whitening.

You may feel that staining is temporarily reduced, but it is difficult to improve the pigments inside the teeth.

Myth 5.

Does whitening work for everyone?

Truth: It varies depending on the condition of the teeth.

Teeth whitening is effective for most discolored teeth, but it may have limited effects in the following cases.

▶ Discoloration caused by antibiotic use (tetracycline staining)

▶ Teeth that have darkened after root canal treatment

▶ Discoloration of prosthetics (crowns, laminates)

In such cases, other methods such as internal whitening or replacement of the prosthetic may be necessary instead of regular whitening.

Therefore, it is most important to first receive a professional diagnosis.

Myth 6.

The more often you whiten, the whiter your teeth become?

Truth: Excessive repetition is not recommended.

If whitening is done too often or high-concentration agents are used repeatedly, tiny cracks may form on the surface of the teeth, or sensitivity may worsen.

Teeth whitening is recommended for these people!

▶ People whose teeth have yellowed and who feel self-conscious when smiling

▶ People who are about to have an important event such as an interview, a photo shoot, or a wedding

▶ People who will continuously manage their teeth while reducing the causes of staining

▶ People who were not satisfied with whitening toothpaste

▶ White, bright teeth go beyond simple aesthetics and have a big impact on a confident impression and improving first impressions.

In closing...

There are many misconceptions about teeth whitening, but with accurate information and a professional diagnosis, you can receive the procedure properly and achieve safe, satisfying results.