What Type of Bleach Is Used in Teeth Whiteners?

There are many options for whitening teeth, not all of which involve bleach. Whitening toothpastes, for example, rely on mild abrasives and polishing agents that, unlike bleach, do not alter the intrinsic color of teeth but instead just clean the surface.

Types

• Bleaching agents approved for dental use come in a variety of strengths depending on whether they are intended for use at home without supervision by a dentist, at home under dental supervision or in a dentist's office.

Ingredients

• Two bleaching agents are typically used for whitening teeth: carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide. The former compound also contains hydrogen peroxide.

Home Use

• Over-the-counter bleaching products are the mildest. If carbamide peroxide is used in these, the strength is typically at least 10 percent. This is the equivalent of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide, the strength typically found in topical solution hydrogen peroxide sold in drugstores. Stronger products for unsupervised at-home use are available with up to 22 percent carbamide peroxide.

Dental Supervision

• Bleach applied in a dental office can be much stronger because the dentist can take extra steps to protect your gums and oral cavity from the chemicals. Hydrogen peroxide levels can be as high as 43 percent.

Duration

• If you bleach your teeth at home, you will probably need to treat your teeth twice daily for at least 14 days. In the dental office, similar results can be achieved in as little as one visit, although more are usually recommended.