Teeth Whitening

Teeth Whitening Myths Debunked: What Really Works

Debunking common myths about tooth extractions.
Understand the real benefits for your oral health and let go
of fear-driven misconceptions!


A monkey with its mouth open

A whiter, brighter smile? Yes, please! But wait! Don’t jump on board so quickly with just any teeth-whitening product. Visit your teeth whitening dentist for a safe, effective, and naturally white smile. With so many myths about teeth whitening, it can get a little confusing. Here is the truth about what really works to get the results you are looking for.

Myths and The Truth

Myth: Teeth Whitening Hurts

You may have heard that teeth whitening is a painful treatment. While this has some truth, you needn’t be concerned when your dentist is providing the service. Be cautious as some store-bought whitening products can be extremely abrasive, destroying the enamel when used too often. When your enamel gets damaged there is more chance of root exposure which can cause pain. Speak with your dentist to set up an appointment for a professional teeth whitening and pain-free, whiter smile. Your dentist will use a safe, non-abrasive product containing hydrogen peroxide that effectively does the job and then recommends the number of times you should have the treatment (usually once a year).

Myth: All teeth will look the same once whitened.

Everyone’s enamel has a unique mineral composition which means teeth whitening gel will react differently on each person. Your teeth may have more yellowing than someone else which means they will not whiten to the same degree. Many people desire a photogenic white tooth grin like seen in pictures of movie stars in magazines, but this is unrealistic. Famous people often have porcelain veneers, or their photo has been digitally enhanced.  Your dentist will help you get a brighter smile, so you feel confident showing it off, just like a celebrity.  

Myth: All stains can be removed with professional teeth whitening.

Your dentist will do what they can to safely remove the stains however some staining is impossible to eliminate with teeth whitening. Deep stains from antibiotics caused by tetracycline binding to the calcium or excessive coffee drinking might require a dental crown or veneer to cover up the discolouration. Your dentist will assess your teeth to determine if a professional whitening is the option that will provide the desired results.

Myth: Teeth whitening results last forever

Though it would be nice to have teeth whitening results last a lifetime, it is not true. Your tooth enamel is naturally porous which means as you eat and drink, staining will happen. A teeth whitening dentist can help you keep your bright smile by booking a treatment at regular intervals, generally about once per year.

Myth: All teeth can be whitened.

As long as you have healthy, natural teeth with only minor staining, you may be able to get them whitened. Dead or significantly damaged teeth won’t pass go when it comes to a professional whitening treatment. In some instances, your dentist might suggest veneers or crowns.

Myth: Lemon juice and baking soda is the at-home whitening solution.

People often try saving money by whitening their own teeth however this will cost you more in the long run. Using a concoction of lemon juice and baking soda to whiten your teeth actually damages them. The acid from the citrus erodes your teeth and baking soda is a harsh abrasive that can lead to sensitivity. This at-home combo increases your risk of stained teeth. Instead of ruining your teeth and needing additional treatments, call your dentist for a safe and effective whitening treatment.

A black man with a smile on his face.

How You Can Maintain a Naturally White Smile

Besides visiting the dentist for professional teeth whitening, you can do things at home to help your smile stay looking clean and bright.

  • Avoid eating an excess of teeth-staining food and drink items like blackberries, blueberries, coffee, and tea.
  • Regularly brush and floss your teeth.
  • Drink a lot of water.

After Teeth Whitening

As with many dental procedures, you may experience some minor side effects, but these are temporary.

  • Sensitivity (this usually only lasts a few days, but in some cases, you may have sensitivity for up to a week. If longer than this, contact your dentist.)
  • Inflamed gums (this only lasts about 30 minutes.)
  • Spots or Streaks (a result of naturally occurring calcium deposits that diminish in 24 hours.)

Whiten Your Smile

Teeth whitening boosts your confidence and helps give you a youthful appearance.  A treatment usually takes less than one hour out of your day. Connect with your teeth whitening SW Calgary clinic for professional whitening. At Glenbrook Dental, we are always here to help you find the right solution for any of your dental concerns.  We are the teeth whitening dentist who can help brighten your smile.