
Is teeth whitening safe? Debunking common myths
Posted by Pear Dental

Happier, healthier smiles.
Teeth whitening has become one of the most popular ways to brighten up your smile, and with good reason – who doesn’t want to flash a set of pearly whites?
But with popularity comes a lot of chatter, and not all of it is true. If you’ve been thinking about whitening your teeth but aren’t sure if it’s safe, you’re in the right place.
We’re here to debunk some of the most common myths about teeth whitening, so you can feel confident about getting that gleaming smile you’ve been dreaming of.
Myth #1: Teeth whitening damages your enamel
Let’s kick things off with one of the biggest myths out there: that teeth whitening is harmful to your enamel. The truth is, when done properly, teeth whitening is completely safe for your enamel.
Professional whitening products are designed to penetrate the surface of your teeth and lift stains without damaging the enamel itself. That’s why it’s super important to use products that are dentist-approved or to get your whitening done by a professional.
At Pear Dental, we use safe, effective methods that protect your enamel while giving you stunning results.
Myth #2: Whitening Causes Extreme Sensitivity
Teeth whitening can cause a bit of sensitivity, but it’s usually temporary and much milder than you might think. Some people experience a slight increase in sensitivity to hot or cold after whitening, but this typically fades within a day or two.
To minimise sensitivity, we recommend using a toothpaste for sensitive teeth before and after your treatment, and our team can also tailor your whitening treatment to reduce any discomfort.
So, while sensitivity can happen, it’s usually no big deal and certainly doesn’t outweigh the benefits of a brighter smile!
Myth #1: Over-the-counter teeth whitening is just as good as professional whitening
We get it – those over-the-counter whitening strips and gels on Amazon seem like a great deal. And at £20 for a pack, you might think there’s nothing to lose.
But here’s the thing: they’re not as powerful or as safe as professional dentist-prescribed teeth whitening treatments.
While some OTC products can help lighten your teeth a shade or two, they often contain lower concentrations of the active ingredients and can be less effective on tougher stains. Plus, they don’t come with the personalised care and oversight you get from a dentist.
At Pear Dental, our professional whitening treatments are not only more effective but also customised to your specific needs, ensuring you get the best possible results.
Myth #4: You only need to whiten your teeth once
We wish it were true, but teeth whitening isn’t a one-and-done deal. How long your results last depends on your habits – things like drinking coffee, tea, or red wine, or smoking/vaping can all contribute to staining. That doesn’t mean you’re back to square one after a few months, though!
With proper care and occasional touch-ups, you can maintain your bright smile for years. We recommend regular check-ups so that we can keep your smile looking fresh and offer touch-up treatments as needed.
Myth #5: Whitening will make your teeth look unnatural
You’ve probably seen those blindingly white smiles that look a bit too perfect. That’s all down to personal preference and taste. Teeth whitening, when done correctly, won’t leave you with an overnight Hollywood smile.
The key is to aim for a shade that complements your skin tone and looks naturally bright.
At Pear Dental, we customise your whitening treatment to achieve the perfect shade that enhances your smile without going overboard.
The result? A smile that looks refreshed and natural, but not like you’ve overdone it.

Dr. Anthony Walsh
Dentist
“Is teeth whitening safe? Absolutely – when done right! By busting these common myths, we hope you feel more confident about whitening your teeth and getting the smile you’ve always wanted.”
At Pear Dental, we’re committed to helping you achieve your brightest, most beautiful smile with treatments that are safe, effective, and tailored just for you. Ready to give your smile a boost? Book a consultation with us today, and let’s get started on your journey to a brighter, whiter smile!
Let’s find your perfect shade of white.
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