Teeth Whitening Myths

Tooth Health - 28th Feb 14

What you need to know about Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening, or any process that will make your teeth appear whiter, is one of the most popular aesthetic dental treatments. But will you experience sensitive teeth after whitening and is it safe? Here are some truths and untruths about this popular process.

Common Teeth Whitening Myths

Myth

Teeth whitening can do irreversible damage to your nerves and that's why it’s sometimes painful

Fact

While many people experience sensitive teeth after whitening, this pain is usually temporary and will stop after treatment.

Myth

You should use stronger teeth whitening agents if you want to reduce treatment time.

Fact

Teeth bleaching products contain peroxide, which at higher concentrations can cause sensitive teeth. Not only that, but because individual teeth respond to bleaching at different rates, there’s no guarantee your teeth will get whiter faster.

Myth

At home and OTC teeth whitening products are risk-free.

Fact

With at-home and OTC teeth whitening products, you run the risk of selecting or using an inferior product, incorrectly applying it, or overusing it. Overusing a teeth whitening product or using an inferior product with low pH can result in enamel damage (one of the causes of sensitive teeth).

Myth

Because it's temporary, there's no need to treat your sensitive teeth while whitening.

Fact

Toothpaste containing potassium nitrate, a "nerve calming" ingredient, should be used before, during, and after teeth bleaching to help manage sensitivity.

Learn More: Whitening Treatments and Sensitivity