When Is It Time to Start Bringing My Child to the Dentist?
Starting dental visits early keeps your child’s smile healthy and helps build a lifetime of good dental habits. Read on to learn when you should bring your child in for their first checkup.
4 Myths About Teeth Whitening You Shouldn't Believe
Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments, but with its popularity comes plenty of misinformation.
At Emery & Scuro DMD, PC in Rochester, New York, Carol Scuro, DMD, Bradford Emery, DMD, and Nicholas Emery, DDS, offer extensive general, family, and cosmetic dentistry services and talk with patients every day who have questions, and some misconceptions, about whitening their teeth.
In this month’s blog, our team addresses four common myths so you can learn the truth and make the best decision for your smile.
Myth #1: Teeth whitening damages your enamel
Professional teeth whitening treatments, like the ones we offer here in our Rochester office, are specially formulated to be safe for your teeth. They’re designed to remove stains from the surface without weakening the enamel.
Overusing store-bought products or relying on homemade concoctions like lemon juice or baking soda, however, can definitely be damaging. They can wear away enamel over time if you’re not careful. That’s why it’s best to talk to your Emery & Scuro DMD, PC dentist about your goals so you get results without unnecessary risks.
Myth #2: Whitening works well for everyone
It would be nice if this were true, but, unfortunately, teeth whitening isn’t one-size-fits-all.
Several variables play into the effectiveness of whitening treatments:
- Whether your stains are on the surface or deeper in the enamel
- The natural whiteness of your teeth
- Whether you have any crowns, veneers, or fillings that can’t be whitened
- How often you consume staining beverages like coffee, tea, or red wine
- Whether you use tobacco products
Even if you have used whitening products and didn’t get the results you were after, try again with a customized and professional approach, something our team specializes in.
Myth #3: Whitening toothpaste works just as well
Whitening toothpaste is ideal for removing surface stains caused by dark beverages, but they don’t actually lighten or whiten your teeth. Also, some are quite abrasive and can wear down your enamel if you brush too aggressively or use them too often.
If you're looking for a noticeable difference, professional whitening is the best option. We offer safe, effective options that can lighten, brighten, and whiten your smile by several shades in a single visit or via customized take-home kits.
Myth #4: Whitening results are permanent
Over time, sipping coffee, tea, and wine, as well as frequently eating dark berries or sauces, or the aging process can take a toll on your teeth. With proper care, though, and occasional touch-ups, you can extend the brightness of your smile.
Here are a few tips to help you maintain your results:
- Brush and floss every day
- Use a straw when you drink staining beverages
- Do not partake in tobacco products
- Come in for preventive care, including regular cleanings and dental checkups
We may also recommend using a touch-up kit between visits.
Our professional teeth whitening treatments will give you something to smile about. Call 585-684-8423 to set up a consultation or request an appointment online today.
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