Did you know that it’s a common misconception that you should have perfectly white teeth? Most people’s teeth are not naturally white. Even if you brush your teeth twice a day as recommended by dental professionals, you still may not have the white smile you desire. Here are a few reasons why your teeth may not be white, and how teeth whitening helps.
Your Teeth Are Not White To Begin With
The idea that teeth are perfectly white is a myth. Even if you avoid acidic foods and dark-colored beverages like coffee and tea, your teeth will likely still be slightly off-white in appearance. Why is that?
The part of the teeth you can see is comprised of tooth enamel and dentin. Each tooth’s structure is made up of hard, dense tissue called dentin. This is covered with enamel. Either of these can be slightly discolored. Even if your teeth never came into contact with any other substance, they would still be off-white.
Dentin is usually slightly colored, and for some people, it’s significantly colored. While the enamel that covers the dentin is transparent, any natural coloration of the dentin is visible. If you have dark dentin, teeth whitening isn’t going to make your teeth perfectly white. Brushing your teeth won’t be able to remove the color.
Teeth are Often Stained
Teeth often become stained by the things you eat or drink. Smoking can also cause staining. Coffee, soda, tomato sauce, wine, and berries can stain teeth. Even some types of antibiotics and fluoride can sometimes cause stained teeth. Even with regular brushing, your teeth can become stained if you regularly consume foods and drinks that cause stains.
Tooth Brushing is not Meant to Whiten Teeth
Dr. Attar doesn’t recommend brushing to get whiter teeth. He recommends you brush your teeth at least twice a day, and sometimes more, and floss at least once a day. Brushing is important to help remove plaque and prevent cavities. But the bristle action of your toothbrush doesn’t whiten teeth. Even whitening toothpaste has a limited effect.
Why Your Whitening Toothpaste Isn’t Working
There are lots of toothpaste brands that claim they can whiten teeth. However, many people are disappointed after finding out they don’t work as well as they had hoped. Here are three reasons why whitening toothpaste doesn’t always work:
- Whitening toothpaste only removes some of the surface stains.
- Toothpaste contains a very small amount of whitening chemicals.
- Whitening chemicals take at least 20 minutes to whiten your teeth.
OTC Teeth Whitening Treatments Might Offer Some Aid
In some situations, over-the-counter teeth whitening treatments can provide some lightening benefits. Whitening strips, toothpaste, and mouthwashes only come into contact with the enamel. They can help remove some surface-level stains. Nothing you find at a local drugstore is going to create the white teeth you desire.
One of the biggest problems you may have with OTC teeth whitening treatment is that they are difficult to apply evenly. For instance, if you use whitening strips, it’s difficult to cover all the visible parts of your teeth with them. The edges close to the gumline and near other teeth are very difficult to cover using this type of treatment.
Dental Whitening Treatment Brightens Teeth
An in-office professional dental treatment by your dentist in Libertyville is the most effective way to brighten your teeth. There are a variety of treatment options that can help remove surface or embedded stains and other discoloration. Professional tooth whitening is effective and provides long-lasting results.
How Much Does Teeth Whitening Cost?
You can get an OTC tooth whitening kit at your local pharmacy. But you will be wasting your money since it isn’t going to give you the results you are looking to achieve. It will cost you a bit more to get a whiter smile from your Libertyville dentist. But you will be much happier with the results.
Talk With a Dentist About Your Teeth
To learn more about teeth whitening, schedule a consultation at Attar Dental. The dental hygienist at Dr. Attar’s office can explain the different treatments available and recommend the best one to help you get the results you want. One other very important thing to know about teeth whitening is that it is not the same as having your teeth cleaned. In fact, a reputable dentist will not agree to whiten your teeth without first examining your teeth for any issues that might cause you problems if you use a strong whitening gel. A dental cleaning will also be recommended, if not mandatory, prior to providing whitening products. Call today to schedule a visit. Fill out the form on this page form to schedule your appointment and redeem your Zoom Whitening Special Offer!
