When talking with our patients in Salisbury about teeth whitening, we’re often surprised to learn that that there are a lot of misconceptions out there. So, we here at Sarum thought we’d take a minute to do a little myth-busting so you know what’s true, what’s safe and where to go to learn what’s recommended for you.
Myth
You can whiten your teeth with over-the-counter (OTC) products.
Truth
While some products you can buy in the shops will remove superficial stains from your teeth, they can’t whiten the actual colour of the tooth itself. Only professional whitening treatments prescribed by your dentist can do that. OTC ‘whitening’ products can also be quite abrasive and can damage your tooth enamel, so they’re not generally recommended.
Myth
You can have your teeth professionally bleached at a beauty salon.
Truth
The only providers legally allowed to prescribe professional-grade teeth whitening are dental professionals. Anyone else who claims to be offering whitening services in Salisbury is a cowboy and should be avoided (and ideally reported). It’s not only illegal for them to be providing dental treatments, but very dangerous for you. Unsuspecting clients have had their mouths and throats badly burned as a result. Stay safe and please talk to us at Sarum before choosing any whitening method.
Myth
You can whiten crowns, bridges and implants.
Truth
Only natural teeth can be whitened. For this reason, we recommend you have your whitening done before any other restorative work, then we will colour-match the restoration to your newly whitened teeth. Topping up your whitening over time to match your crowns is much easier than replacing your crowns!
Myth
Your whitened teeth will stay white.
Truth
Your whitened teeth will stain just as your teeth did before they were whitened, the only difference is that their base colour will be lighter. So, you’ll still need to take care of them by avoiding coffee, tea, wine and other staining drinks and foods. We’ll give you more information on maintenance when you come into our Salisbury practice to have your whitening done. We also offer affordable top-up treatments to help you keep that brilliant smile.
Myth
Professional teeth whitening is only for A-listers.
Truth
Whitening has now become such a popular and routine procedure that we’re able to make it affordable for every budget. In fact, we’re currently running a special offer on market-leading Philips Zoom! in-practice and take-home whitening: book now and get £50 off!