How to Achieve a Bright, Beautiful Smile: Expert Advice on Teeth

In today's digital age, where dating apps, social media, and TikTok reign supreme, it seems like everyone is striving for a picture-perfect smile. It’s no surprise that teeth whitening has become a significant focus for many. According to U.S. Census data from 2020, approximately 37 million Americans used tooth whiteners, contributing to billions of dollars spent annually on at-home teeth whitening products. However, despite the growing trend of DIY teeth whitening remedies, there is increasing concern about the potential harm they could cause.

In a recent conversation with cosmetic dentist and social media influencer Joyce Kahng, @joycethedentist, we explored some of the common teeth whitening misconceptions circulating online, especially those fueled by viral trends. Kahng highlighted the importance of understanding what truly works when it comes to whitening teeth, and the risks that accompany some popular at-home treatments. Here’s a breakdown of the insights she shared, along with expert advice on how to safely and effectively achieve that glowing smile.

The internet has made information on teeth whitening readily accessible, but it has also contributed to widespread misconceptions, particularly on platforms like TikTok, where certain trends can go viral. "A common array of mistakes surrounds the realm of teeth whitening, fueled partly by trends and misinformation, particularly visible on platforms like TikTok," says Kahng. While some of these viral trends might sound convincing, they often lack scientific backing or, worse, can cause harm to your teeth and gums.

Let’s look at four particularly misleading trends that have gained traction in recent years:

Turmeric for Teeth Whitening: Turmeric has become a buzzword in the world of natural remedies, touted for its supposed teeth-whitening effects. However, Kahng firmly debunks this claim. "Despite its popularity, there’s no scientific evidence to support turmeric as a whitening agent," she explains. In fact, turmeric's bright yellow color actually raises concerns about the possibility of staining teeth rather than whitening them.

Coconut Oil: Another popular trend involves using coconut oil as a teeth-whitening remedy, often in the form of oil pulling. While coconut oil may leave the mouth feeling cleaner and fresher, it does not have any whitening effect. "There is no clinical evidence that supports coconut oil as a teeth-whitening solution," Kahng adds. It may contribute to oral health by reducing plaque, but it should not be relied upon for dramatic whitening results.

Charcoal-Based Products: Charcoal-based toothpaste and powders have exploded in popularity, with many believing that the abrasive nature of charcoal helps to remove stains. While charcoal does have some abrasive properties that can help remove surface stains, its excessive abrasiveness can be harmful to the enamel. "Charcoal can be too harsh on the teeth, leading to enamel erosion if used improperly," Kahng warns.

Hydrogen Peroxide Rinses: Hydrogen peroxide is commonly used in teeth-whitening products because of its bleaching properties. However, many people use 3% hydrogen peroxide as a mouth rinse, which is not only ineffective but can also damage the gums if used incorrectly. "At this concentration, hydrogen peroxide is too weak for effective whitening and potentially harmful to the gums if not diluted," Kahng says.

To truly understand how to whiten your teeth safely and effectively, it's essential to first grasp the two primary types of teeth stains: extrinsic and intrinsic.

Extrinsic Stains: Extrinsic stains are those that affect the outer surface of your teeth. These stains are typically caused by foods and beverages such as coffee, tea, red wine, and smoking. They are usually easier to remove and often come off during routine dental cleanings. Whitening toothpastes, which are designed to target surface stains, can help prevent new stains from forming. "They remove stains from the tooth surface, making the teeth appear brighter," Kahng says.However, if these extrinsic stains are left untreated for too long, they can penetrate deeper into the tooth structure, turning into intrinsic stains.

Intrinsic Stains: Intrinsic stains are more stubborn and affect the inner layers of the tooth. These types of stains can be caused by factors like genetics, certain medications, or the natural aging process. Whitening toothpastes, while effective on surface stains, are not sufficient for treating intrinsic stains. For deeper stains, stronger treatments such as peroxide-based whitening strips or gels are typically required. "Intrinsic stains require more potent treatments to break them up, such as peroxide-based products," Kahng advises.

Whitening toothpastes are often the go-to option for many people looking to brighten their smile. These toothpastes contain mild abrasives that help remove surface stains over time. However, it’s important to note that not all whitening toothpastes are created equal. Some can be overly abrasive and may damage your enamel if used excessively. "Some whitening toothpastes can actually damage the enamel if they are too abrasive," Kahng points out. It's essential to consult with your dentist to ensure you're using a product that is both effective and safe for your teeth.

One specific type of toothpaste to be cautious about is charcoal toothpaste, which, although effective at removing surface stains, can be too harsh for daily use. "Charcoal-based products can be too abrasive, so they should only be used with caution and under the guidance of a dentist," Kahng warns.

So, what does Kahng use to keep her smile bright? As a cosmetic dentist with years of professional experience, she follows a whitening regimen that combines daily care with custom treatments for optimal results.

"For daily maintenance, I prefer using a whitening toothpaste that’s in the medium to high range of abrasiveness," she shares. "This level of abrasiveness is enough to remove surface stains without causing damage, especially since many people brush too aggressively."

Kahng also uses custom whitening trays as part of her whitening routine. "I repurpose my Invisalign aligners as custom whitening trays, which I find highly effective," she explains. She pairs these trays with high-concentration whitening gels, available at her office, to achieve professional-level whitening. "Custom-fitted trays allow for more effective and efficient whitening. They can hold the whitening gel in place and ensure that it evenly covers the teeth."

Achieving a bright smile is not just about using whitening products but also maintaining good oral hygiene and dietary habits. Kahng emphasizes the importance of regular maintenance. "Diet plays a significant role in the staining of teeth," she says. Foods and drinks like coffee, tea, red wine, and even certain sauces can cause discoloration over time. "If you regularly consume foods and beverages known to stain your teeth, you may need more frequent whitening treatments to maintain your desired level of brightness."

In addition to diet, regular brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings are essential for keeping teeth free from surface stains and plaque buildup. Kahng also recommends avoiding excessive teeth whitening treatments, as overuse can lead to enamel damage and sensitivity.

While teeth whitening can offer a quick and easy way to enhance your smile, it’s important to approach it carefully and with knowledge. Avoid trendy DIY remedies like turmeric, coconut oil, charcoal, and undiluted hydrogen peroxide, as they can do more harm than good. Instead, focus on using professional-grade products and techniques tailored to your specific needs. Whitening toothpastes, when used correctly, can help with surface stains, while custom whitening trays and stronger treatments are ideal for more stubborn intrinsic stains.

Ultimately, the best way to achieve and maintain a bright smile is through a combination of proper oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and professional treatments. If you’re considering whitening your teeth, it’s always wise to consult with your dentist to ensure you're using the most effective and safe methods for your unique dental needs.