The Science Behind Teeth Whitening (2024)

FAQs

How does teeth whitening work scientifically? ›

All Teeth Whitening Gels such as Hydrogen or Carbamide peroxide penetrate the teeth and cause a reaction called oxidation, which breaks down the stain compounds and lifts them out of the enamel.

The most safest and scientifically proven whitening system, Opalescence™, uses either carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide as a whitening agent. The active oxygen molecules in the whitening agent can penetrate the enamel of the teeth and react with the discolored molecules that cause tooth discoloration.

Teeth whitening works because the oxidation of hydrogen peroxide breaks the chemical bonds of the chromogens. As mentioned before, chromogens are either large organic compounds or metal containing compounds.

The active ingredient in most whitening products is hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) which is delivered as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. Carbamide peroxide is a stable complex that breaks down in contact with water to release hydrogen peroxide.

Although teeth whitening rarely causes long term damage, temporary sensitivity is not uncommon. If you experience any discomfort following your treatment, your dentist can help you minimize irritation in the future.

If you want to know how to whiten yellow teeth, the most effective option is an in-office whitening treatment with your dentist. In-office whitening treatments have become very popular because you can see results in a single visit or a few visits. The effects last longer than any product you find on the shelves.

Option #1: In-Office Laser Whitening

Using lasers and peroxide-based whitening agents in a professional setting, this teeth whitening method provides dramatic, lasting results. While the whitening results are great, you should also consider the cost.

Baking soda can be used with some water to remove the stains on the surface of the teeth. It can also be used with hydrogen peroxide to enhance its whitening effects. Baking soda can be used by individuals with regular toothpastes too. It is also used commercially in some teeth whitening products and toothpastes.

Combine 2 teaspoons (10 ml) of hydrogen peroxide with 1 teaspoon (6 grams) of baking soda and gently brush your teeth with the mixture. Limit the use of this homemade paste to a few times per week, as overuse can erode your tooth enamel.

How do dentists get teeth so white? ›

The front surface of the tooth is coated with a whitening solution. The solution contains a bleaching agent, typically hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. A laser or curing light is usually used to activate the peroxide. After applying the solution, we leave it for about 30 to 60 minutes.

Using a paste made of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide is said to remove plaque buildup and bacteria to get rid of stains. Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 2 tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide to make a paste. Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water after brushing with this paste.

Teeth whitening can make teeth whiter. The bleaching agent used for teeth whitening is peroxide which, in turn, breaks down the tooth enamel and makes it porous. This exposes the dentine below the enamel, and the bleaching agent penetrates deeper into the tooth's core to rebuild white tooth tissues from the inside out.

The active bleaching agent is hydrogen peroxide, H₂O_2. Because this compound is a weak acid with strong oxidizing properties, it steals the electrons that hold the atoms together, which in turn cause the staining molecules to fall apart.

Most tooth whiteners use one of two chemical agents: carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide (the same stuff that will bleach your hair). When used in the mouth, carbamide peroxide breaks down into hydrogen peroxide and urea, with hydrogen peroxide being the active whitening ingredient.

What are the risks of teeth whitening? No matter what treatment you use, there's a chance your gums will be sensitive to the chemicals used in teeth whitening, particularly if you already have sensitive teeth. There's also a chance of burns to gums and some of the whitening kits used at home can harm tooth enamel.