The Don’ts in Teeth Whitening

We always talk about the Do’s in teeth whitening. They will always help us achieving whiter teeth if strictly followed. Do’s are great tips but how about the don’ts? Are they be ignored and just left under the table? I don’t think so.

Don’ts are preventive measures that will help us protect and maintain white teeth. They are our defense strategy while the dos will take care on the offensive side of teeth whitening.

Here are the top Don’ts about teeth whitening

Don’t expect MIRACLES from your toothpaste

Toothpaste’s main objective is to clean and maintain the aesthetics and health of teeth. They serve as an abrasive that aids in removing the dental plaque and food from teeth and help in preventing tooth decay and gum disease.

Yes, there are whitening toothpastes available in the market but these are basically, again, for stain removal and has little effect on whitening teeth. They use enzymes or particles to remove stains that make our teeth look yellowish.

Don’t forget your fillings

Always remember that in all tooth whitening methods and processes, only the natural tooth structure will change shade. If you have “fillings”, take note that after whitening the natural teeth to your desired color, you need to change the fillings to match the shade.

Don’t choose oil pulling over dental visits

Oil pulling has become increasingly popular nowadays. It may be helping in teeth whitening and overall oral health care. However, there has been no evidence to date that oil pulling works.

You can freely try this technique but please, don’t substitute your regular dental visit with unproved methods of teeth whitening. Regular dental visits are still essential and irreplaceable.

Don’t leave whitening strips too long

Every whitening strip comes with instructions or how to use guidelines. There are printed on the package for a reason. Using whitening strips longer can lead to unattractive splotching on the teeth and increased sensitivity. Keep an eye on the clock when the strips are locked in. Also, limit the use of strips to at once or twice a year.

Don’t use whitening products if you are a minor

Many dentists recommend not using whitening products if you are under the age of 18. Though there is no study about this, dentists’ advice are needed to be considered. They are the experts.

Don’t drink too much colored beverages

Colored beverages such as red wine, tea, cola, and coffee are the primary suspects of teeth staining and discolorations. Drinking too much of these may cause serious tooth staining.