On television, on websites and social media, in magazines – everywhere you look, there’s advertisements for teeth whitening. They show happy people with shining white teeth, smiling and active and, well…healthy looking.
But are whiter teeth always healthier teeth?
The short answer is no.
Teeth aren’t Naturally Bright White
Natural teeth are typically coloured light grey to light yellow. Teeth darken with age, and can get stained over time by smoking, or consuming foods and drinks like coffee/tea, red wine or dark berries.
Darker hues or stains do not necessarily mean the teeth are unhealthy, and a bright white smile can still be hiding gum disease or a cavity. That’s why the most critical step for your oral health is regular checkups with your dentist.
That being said, people are interested in whitening for other reasons than oral health. For one, people DO tend to associate white teeth with youth and healthy activities. So, teeth whitening can make you look and feel healthier…increasing your confidence.
Many of us are now on video calls and seeing our own faces more often. We might be distracted by our own smiles, and wanting to make a good impression on others. And we may look to teeth whitening for the answer.
Before we go into a few whitening solutions, it’s important that you carefully read and follow the directions for use on every product. Too much whitening can be a very bad thing for your teeth…and your health.
You should also look for a professional seal of approval like the Canadian Dental Association seal, which lets you know if the oral health benefit claims made by a manufacturer have been independently reviewed, and are supported by scientific evidence.
Teeth Whitening Toothpaste
Just like regular toothpaste, whitening toothpaste contains abrasives that can help remove stains from your teeth – so they can help you achieve a whiter smile. The abrasives in whitening brands are typically finer than those of regular toothpaste, allowing for better stain removal. It can take up to 6 weeks to begin seeing the whitening effects.
They won’t be able to change the natural colour of your teeth, however.
Some whitening toothpastes contain “blue covarine,” a chemical that sticks to the surface of your teeth, creating the illusion of whiter teeth. This effect can begin immediately, and typically lasts a few hours after brushing – eating or drinking can reduce the effect.
Teeth Whitening Chewing Gum
Like whitening toothpaste, teeth whitening gum has fine abrasives to help clean stains from your teeth. Chewing sugar-free gum after eating can help reduce the acid buildup in your mouth as well, helping keep your teeth healthier.
If used properly, whitening chewing gum can’t hurt, but don’t expect a mouthful of shining teeth from chewing gum alone.
Over the Counter Teeth Whitening Bleaches and Whitening Strips
Shelves at the pharmacy are filled with different home teeth bleaching products. Most of these products contain peroxide, which can lighten the colour of your teeth.
Many studies show these treatments can be safe and effective when used properly. You may experience an increase in tooth sensitivity or gum irritation during and after treatment, but these effects typically go away after a short period. The effect is not permanent, and the long-term effects of re-bleaching teeth has not been studied.
The Canadian Dental Association recommends consulting a dentist prior to using these products. They know your teeth best, and can advise you on if the use of products like teeth whitening strips can cause sensitivity or what the effect might be with your fillings, crowns or other dental work.
Professional Teeth Whitening Services at your Dentist
Most dentists offer professional whitening services, using either peroxide-gel trays, a special bleach toothpaste, or a combination of peroxide gel activated with heat and/or a special LED light.
The peroxide gels used by a dentist are typically much stronger than those that can be purchased over the counter. They’re safe to use only under a dentist’s supervision.
Your dentist can also keep an eye on sensitive teeth and dental work throughout the process.
With regular brushing, flossing and dental cleaning visits, professional tooth whitening can last up to two years.
Want to know more about Teeth Whitening? Contact Midland Bay Dental Today!
In addition to professional cleaning services, we offer professional teeth whitening services. Professional teeth whitening treatments can help increase your confidence and, as a result, encourage you to continue to take great care of your teeth. We’re committed to helping you develop life-long oral hygiene habits! Contact us at 705-526-6441 to book your next appointment.