Professionally applying dental products containing hydrogen peroxide is a cost-effective way to improve the appearance of your teeth, according to the American Dental Association (ADA). The popularity of such procedures has increased a great deal since the early 1990s, along with consumer products like whitening toothpaste and even kiosks in malls dedicated to teeth whitening. Although the U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not regulate any teeth-whitening products, the market for them continues to grow.
Function
Hydrogen peroxide is one of several common treatments capable of making teeth appear whiter when used properly, according to Harvard Medical School. Both it and carbamide peroxide are bleaching agents that lighten teeth several shades by altering the color of teeth. Some teeth-whitening products, such as whitening rinses and toothpastes, are not bleaching agents. Relying on either mild abrasive ingredients or chemical substances, they make teeth look slightly whiter by removing stains on the surface of teeth.
Features
Bleaching products with hydrogen peroxide usually contain concentrations of 15 to 35 percent, and they are intended for professional application in a dentist's office. Such products work much faster than products intended for home use, according to the ADA, primarily because they are stronger and sometimes because dentists attempt to increase their whitening effect by pointing a special light or laser at teeth while the product is applied. Hydrogen peroxide whitening procedures conducted in a dentist's office often require just one hour-long session, while products used at home frequently demand multiple applications that can take up to a month.
Effectiveness
Teeth-whitening products containing hydrogen peroxide are more effective on certain kinds of tooth discoloration than others, according to the American Dental Hygienists' Association. Such bleaches are able to lighten the teeth of 96 percent of people who have discolored teeth due to aging, using tobacco products or drinking coffee or tea, for example. However, hydrogen peroxide is less reliable when applied to teeth discolored as a result of exposure to excessive fluoride or the antibiotic called tetracycline.
Considerations
Harvard Medical School notes that hydrogen peroxide bleaches are not suitable for certain groups of people. Individuals who should avoid such products include breastfeeding women, pregnant women, children younger than 16, people who are allergic to peroxide and people with corroded tooth enamel, gum disease or sensitive teeth. If you use a hydrogen peroxide-based teeth whitener and develop sores or irritation in your mouth, Harvard Medical School recommends discontinuing use at once and speaking with a dentist.
Warning
The ADA advises whitening your teeth with hydrogen peroxide and other bleaching agents only after consulting a competent dentist. A complete, professional checkup before undergoing a whitening procedure is necessary to identify any dental problems that may cause issues. For instance, people with receding gums or sensitive teeth may find bleaching procedures uncomfortable. Moreover, hydrogen peroxide and most other types of bleach-based whitening products are ineffective on surfaces that are not tooth enamel, such as crowns, partial dentures and veneers.
References
- American Dental Association: Statement on the Safety and Effectiveness of Tooth Whitening Products
- American Dental Association: Tooth Whitening/Bleaching - Treatment Considerations for Dentists and Their Patients
- American Dental Hygienists' Association: Tooth Whitening Systems
- Harvard Health Publications: Time for Tooth Whitening?
