Myths
That whitening damages enamel (supervised whitening does not), that it works on veneers and crowns (it does not), that charcoal or lemon whiten teeth (they abrade and erode enamel), and that the whitest result is the best (it rarely looks natural).
Facts
Peroxide gel breaks down stain molecules inside enamel. Sensitivity is temporary and manageable. Results last for a year or more with a take-home kit for touch-ups. Existing restorations may need replacing to match.
The safe route
Whiten under supervision, with healthy teeth and protected gums, to a shade that suits the face. Then maintain rather than repeat.
