What Chemicals & Physical Properties Enable Teeth Whiteners to Be Useful?

Over time, many people develop stains or discoloration on their teeth. Stains and discoloration can occur from age, tobacco, tea, coffee, red wine and certain antibiotics. Although stained teeth do not present a health risk, some people wish to whiten their teeth for cosmetic reasons. Whitening products either bleach the teeth or utilize abrasives to remove surface stains. For best results, talk to your dentist before using teeth whitening products. In addition, check with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) before purchasing teeth whitening products online, since the BBB has received complaints of marketing deception by several companies.

Peroxide

• Most teeth whitening products contain carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide. Both types of peroxide bleach teeth by breaking down and giving oxygen access to your tooth enamel. Peroxide does not damage your teeth when used properly. However, peroxide sometimes causes gum sensitivity, especially teeth whitening products that have higher levels of peroxide.

Lasers

• Some professional whitening treatments combine the use of lasers and peroxide bleaching agents. Lasers increase the chemical reaction caused by the peroxide, whitening teeth more quickly, according to the British Dental Health Foundation.

Abrasives

• Most whitening toothpastes rely on mild abrasives to clean surface stains from tooth enamel, according to the American Dental Association. Commonly used abrasives include hydrated silica, baking soda, polyvinylpyrrolidone and sodium tripolyphosphate. Whitening toothpastes do not change the color of tooth enamel.