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woman choosing tooth shade for teeth whitening in etobicoke

Is Teeth Whitening Safe? Debunking Common Myths

March 23, 2025
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Posted By: Dr. Youngwoo Joo
side by side of person's smile before and after teeth whitening showing a bright smile on the right

One common question we often hear from patients is: "Is teeth whitening safe?" The short answer is—yes! Professional teeth whitening is especially safe because your dentist supervises the procedure and has access to specialized bleaching products that you can't purchase in stores. 

Today, we'll debunk some common myths surrounding professional teeth whitening so you can feel comfortable about your choice to brighten your smile. Let's get started!

Myth #1: Teeth Whitening Damages Your Enamel

Professional teeth whitening gel uses hydrogen or carbamide peroxide to break up and eliminate tooth stains, leaving teeth whiter and brighter than when you started. The bleaching gel your dentist uses doesn't harm tooth enamel.

Excessive teeth bleaching may cause tooth sensitivity, which can result in discomfort. 

Myth #2: Teeth Whitening Works on All Types of Stains

Unfortunately, even professional teeth whitening does have its limits. Stubborn stains caused by certain medications or intrinsic staining inside the tooth may be conditions that don't respond well to professional teeth bleaching. 

If that's the case for your smile, our dentists will discuss other options to cover or eliminate stubborn tooth stains and help you achieve your smile goals, such as dental bonding, porcelain veneers, or crowns. 

Myth #3: Teeth Whitening Is Unsafe for Your Gums

The good news is that when you whiten your teeth with your dentist, we take steps to ensure that your gums are safe from harm from bleaching gel. We use a protective barrier to guard your gums during in-office teeth whitening, and custom bleaching trays made with impressions of your teeth ensure protection from gel escaping onto your gum tissue. Customized teeth whitening also helps you achieve better results quicker. 

Want to Learn More about Professional Teeth Whitening in Etobicoke?

Contact your team at Toronto Lakeshore Dental at (416) 503-3335 for more information or request an appointment online.  

If you have difficulty using our website, please email us or call us at (416) 503-3335
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