7th May 2024

The Smart Way to Whiten Your Teeth: 8 Methods to Avoid

Who doesn’t dream of flashing a bright, dazzling smile? A set of pearly whites enhances your appearance and boosts confidence. But before you dive into teeth whitening, it’s crucial to steer clear of methods that can do more harm than good.

Today, there is an array of options for whitening teeth, from over-the-counter products to professional dental treatments. However, not all methods are created equal, and some can even damage teeth and gums. Read on for eight teeth-whitening methods you should definitely avoid.

1. Teeth-whitening mouthwash

While mouthwashes may freshen breath and maintain oral hygiene, they’re not effective for whitening teeth. The solution doesn’t stay in contact with teeth long enough to produce significant results. While these rinses may contain small amounts of whitening agents like hydrogen peroxide, their effectiveness is limited by their short contact time with teeth. Stick to mouthwashes for oral health, not whitening.

2. DIY remedies like apple cider vinegar or strawberries

Natural doesn’t always mean safe or effective when it comes to teeth whitening. Some DIY remedies, like brushing with acidic substances such as apple cider vinegar or rubbing strawberries on your teeth, may seem harmless, but they can do more harm than good. The acids in these natural products can erode enamel, the protective outer layer of your teeth, leaving them vulnerable to decay and sensitivity. Consult your dentist for safe and reliable whitening options.

3. Ignoring your dentist’s advice

Your dentist knows your dental health best. If they advise against whitening treatments, there’s likely a good reason. Whitening may be unsuitable for certain dental conditions or restorations like fillings or crowns. Additionally, your dentist can assess the cause of tooth discoloration and recommend the most appropriate treatment. Always follow your dentist’s recommendations for a healthy smile.

4. Incorrect use of whitening strips

Whitening strips are a popular at-home whitening option, but using them incorrectly can lead to problems. These strips are coated with a gel containing hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which bleaches the teeth. However, if the strips are too large or left on for too long, the gel can come into prolonged contact with the gums, leading to irritation and sensitivity. Follow the instructions carefully, and trim the strips to fit your mouth if necessary. Overuse or misuse of whitening strips can lead to enamel damage and sensitivity.

5. Overdoing whitening treatments

More is not always better, especially when it comes to teeth whitening. Excessive use of whitening products can weaken enamel, the protective outer layer of your teeth, leading to sensitivity and gum irritation. The active ingredients in whitening products, such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, can penetrate the enamel and reach the dentin, the layer beneath the enamel, causing damage over time. Stick to recommended usage guidelines to avoid long-term damage.

6. Rinsing with hydrogen peroxide

Despite being a common ingredient in whitening products, rinsing with hydrogen peroxide won’t yield the desired results. It can be harmful to your dental health. Concentration and contact are key in whitening; rinsing with hydrogen peroxide is ineffective and potentially dangerous. While hydrogen peroxide can effectively bleach teeth when used in professional whitening treatments, rinsing it at home can lead to irritation and sensitivity.

7. Using baking soda abrasively

Baking soda is often touted as a natural teeth whitener, but using it too aggressively can damage enamel and irritate gums. While it may remove surface stains, it’s not a substitute for professional whitening treatments. Baking soda is abrasive and can wear down enamel if used excessively or with too much pressure. Additionally, it can cause gum irritation and increase sensitivity. Use it in moderation and consult your dentist for personalized whitening options.

8. Overreliance on whitening toothpaste

While whitening toothpaste may remove surface stains, it’s not a substitute for professional whitening treatments. Excessive use can wear down enamel and increase tooth sensitivity. Whitening toothpaste contains abrasive particles that help to scrub away surface stains, but excessive use can lead to enamel erosion and gum recession. Additionally, whitening toothpaste may not be effective for deeper stains or discoloration. Use it in moderation and consult your dentist for personalized whitening options.