Tooth whitening is rapidly gaining popularity, especially for those looking to enhance their smile. The process involves lightening stained or discoloured teeth. When done correctly, it is a safe, effective, and simple way to achieve a brighter smile. However, incorrect tooth whitening can lead to irreversible damage to your teeth and gums. Read on to discover the common mistakes people make with teeth whitening in Brisbane and how to safely brighten your smile.
1. Assuming Tooth Whitening Will Work for Everyone
It’s tempting to think that since everyone else is whitening their teeth, it will work for you too. However, not all teeth are the same. For instance, false teeth, veneers, crowns, and visible white fillings will not whiten. Many people aren’t aware of which of their teeth contain porcelain or filling material. Only your Brisbane dentist can tell you if whitening is suitable for you and how to work it around your existing dental work.
Pro Tip: Speak with your dentist to assess whether whitening is the right choice for you and if it can be safely applied alongside other dental treatments.
2. Not Getting a Professional Check and Clean Before Whitening
Before starting any teeth whitening treatment in Brisbane, make sure your teeth and gums are healthy. Whitening gel applied to untreated cavities can cause severe pain, damage, and irritation. Plaque and tartar on your teeth will prevent the whitening gel from working effectively.
Solution: Schedule a professional check-up and teeth cleaning to ensure your teeth are free of any plaque, calculus, and other issues. Your dentist will also provide care tips to help you maintain your bright smile long-term.
3. Not Maintaining Oral Health Before and After Whitening
Proper oral hygiene is key to achieving and maintaining your bright smile. Brush and floss before applying whitening products to remove plaque and food particles, ensuring the whitening gel penetrates effectively for optimal results.
Tip: Regular brushing and flossing will improve the effectiveness of your whitening treatment, and your dentist can guide you on the best aftercare.
4. Relying on Whitening Toothpaste
Many whitening toothpastes claim to whiten your teeth, but they don’t actually lighten the colour of teeth. Instead, most whitening toothpastes contain abrasives that help to scrape surface stains. These can sometimes cause damage if too abrasive, especially with frequent use.
What works: Only hydrogen peroxide has been scientifically proven to lighten teeth. Colgate Optic White is a good option for maintaining teeth that have already been whitened, but it may not lighten very dark teeth.
5. Purchasing Whitening Products Online
Many people are tempted to purchase teeth whitening products online, but these products are often unregulated and may contain harmful chemicals. Counterfeit whitening products are common, and they may not be stored or transported properly, reducing their effectiveness and safety.
Warning: Always buy your whitening products from a trusted Brisbane dentist to ensure they meet safety standards and are stored correctly. Counterfeit products can cause severe damage to your teeth. We like to use an Australian brand called Pola.
6. Buying from Pharmacies or Using Salon Treatments
Some over-the-counter whitening products sold in pharmacies or salons may contain ingredients that are not proven to whiten teeth effectively. While hydrogen peroxide is the only active ingredient scientifically proven to lighten teeth, many over-the-counter products don’t contain enough of it to make a difference.
Salon treatments may advertise “dental-grade” whitening, but staff members are typically not trained to handle the procedure safely. This can lead to damage or ineffective whitening.
Solution: Always consult a qualified cosmetic dentist in Brisbane before opting for any whitening treatment.
7. Not Using Custom-Fitted Whitening Trays
Custom-fitted whitening trays ensure that the whitening gel stays in place and doesn’t spill onto your gums. Ill-fitting trays can lead to discomfort, gum irritation, and wasted gel.
Why it matters: Custom trays provide maximum effectiveness by delivering the whitening gel directly to your teeth, not your gums.
8. Trying DIY Home Remedies
Many people resort to home remedies like baking soda and lemon juice to whiten their teeth. While they may seem harmless, these substances can actually damage your enamel. Lemon juice is acidic, and baking soda is abrasive—combined, they can wear down enamel, leading to weaker, darker teeth.
Warning: Stick to professional whitening products prescribed by your Brisbane dentist for safe and effective results.
9. Ignoring Instructions and Overusing Whitening Products
It’s easy to think that using more whitening gel or leaving it on longer will speed up the process, but doing so can lead to gum irritation and tooth damage. Always follow the dentist-recommended directions for safe whitening.
Tip: Avoid consuming staining foods and drinks like red wine, coffee, and tobacco while undergoing whitening treatment to ensure better results.
10. Overdoing It: Whitening Too Often
Some people can get carried away with whitening treatments, trying to achieve an overly white smile. However, excessive whitening can strip away enamel, leading to duller, unhealthy teeth over time.
Solution: Work with your dentist to monitor your whitening progress and avoid excessive treatments.
In Summary: How to Safely Whiten Your Teeth in Brisbane
Tooth whitening can be a simple, effective, and safe way to improve the appearance of your smile when done correctly. Professional teeth whitening under the guidance of a qualified Brisbane dentist ensures the best results without harming your teeth.
Interested in Teeth Whitening in Brisbane? Contact Us Today
If you’re ready to brighten your smile, Dentistry on George offers professional whitening treatments tailored to your needs. Our expert dentists will guide you through the entire process, ensuring safety and effectiveness.
📞 Call us at (07) 3221 0444
📅 Book online: www.dentistryongeorge.com.au
📍 Visit our clinic in Brisbane CBD
