Cosmetic dentist reveals which teeth whitening products actually work - as well as the ones to AVOID
- California-based cosmetic dentist Dr. Joyce Kahng revealed the info on TikTok
- She explained the differences between various stains and what to look out for
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Looking for the answer to perfectly white, movie star-level teeth?
A cosmetic dentist has finally lifted the lid on the teeth whitening products that actually work - and which ones you can definitely skip - to achieve a stunning smile.
The information was shared in a new TikTok video by dentist Joyce Kahng, based in Orange County, California, who is the owner of O+M Dental Studio.
Kahng has been practicing cosmetic dentistry for over a decade, and is a former Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of Southern California Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry.
She recently broke down which whitening products are the real deal, but started out by explaining why your teeth may look yellow in the first place.
Cosmetic dentist Joyce Kahng has finally lifted the lid on the teeth whitening products that actually work - and which ones you can definitely skip - to achieve a stunning smile
The expert broke down which whitening products are the real deal, but started out by explaining why your teeth may look yellow in the first place (stock image)
Yellow teeth can be due to one of two things - extrinsic stains or intrinsic stains.
Extrinsic stains form on the outside of your enamel from things like coffee, tea, and wine.
'These types of stains could be easily removed during your professional dental cleanings,' Kahng explained.
But intrinsic stains, which occur beneath the enamel of your tooth, are more difficult to get rid of, and require whitening products in order to change their color.
However, she did note that extrinsic stains can sometimes become intrinsic if you leave them on your teeth for long enough.
'They will eventually seep into the enamel structure and change the internal color of the tooth, which is why we need to address both for long lasting results,' she explained in the clip.
So, when it comes to trying to manage extrinsic stains, there are a few products that can help.
The dentist recommended a whitening toothpaste that's 'not too abrasive,' like Sensodyne, as well as whitening mouth washes.
Extrinsic stains form on the outside of your enamel from things like coffee, tea, and wine, the dentist explained - and they're easier to get rid of
'Beware that whitening mouthwashes need to be used after brushing and flossing, and they basically help prevent the stains from sticking on the surface of the tooth,' she said.
'Both of these help address stains on the outside, and prevent future ones from forming,' the dentist added.
But when it comes to trying to remove the intrinsic stains, you will want to use products that are hydrogen-peroxide based, according to the expert.
Some of these products include whitening strips and trays, or professional whitening treatments that can be done in-office.
But one thing to stay away from? Whitening pens.
This is because these have a low concentration of hydrogen peroxide and 'are probably the most inefficient way to whiten,' according to Kahng.
'I wish that whitening products would address which types of stains they're actually addressing, I think that would lead to a lot less confusion for the general public,' Kahng concluded.
So, the next time you're looking to give your teeth a little refresh, keep Kahng's tips in mind to make sure that you're choosing the right products.
