Whitening toothpastes can be a great way to brighten your smile, but are they worth the time and money? The toothpaste industry is one of the most profitable industries in the world, and each year millions are spent on toothpaste and related products. Toothpastes often offer little in the way of whitening power, because of low levels of active bleaching agents, while ultra-violet light devices and strips offer much greater results because the whitening agents make full contact with the teeth for much longer periods of time. To help you decide, we have included a link to a review of a very popular toothpaste product.
Whitening Toothpastes – What’s the big deal about them anyway? Most people know that toothpastes contain either carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide, which are supposed to work against bacteria and prevent stains from building up. The latest research suggests that a combination of carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide can produce much more effective results than either one alone. Whitening toothpastes contain a low concentration of these substances, usually in tablet form. This allows them to be used as a stand-alone item and not just a component of another product.
Most tooth whiteners contain a mild form of peroxide, which reacts with saliva in the mouth and removes surface stains. In recent years, some products have been introduced which combines carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide, producing far more potent products. These products can produce significant changes in a matter of hours. The most popular brands contain up to 10 times more carbamide peroxide than any other type of formula. They are now available in a variety of different applications, such as strips, gels and polishes.
Whitening toothpastes use this same combination of ingredients to help remove stains, but the effect is further enhanced by the addition of a neutralizing agent, usually baking soda, which makes the mixture less likely to damage surrounding tissue. Some products combine hydrogen peroxide with sodium hydroxide (lye), which is a strong chemical agent that can loosen and lift stains on a tooth’s surface. For this reason, it may be more appropriate for individuals who suffer from gum disease, tooth sensitivity, or deep-seated stains.
The best products have been evaluated by dental health professionals, such as dentists, and come with a Certificate of Approval from a laboratory. The level of potency and concentration of the bleaching agents varies according to the formula. The strength of the formula will also determine how fast it works. Products that work quickly usually require multiple applications, whereas those that take longer to become effective tend to be less effective. Those who suffer from gum disease, sensitivity, or deep-seated stains should consider getting professional advice before trying any type of home tooth whitening kits at home. Those suffering from cavities or sore gums should consult with a dentist as well before trying any home products.
Home toothpaste whitening systems often use a solution of hydrogen peroxide gel and a low concentration of toothpaste. It is possible to purchase these systems from drug stores, but they usually cost more than other kits. In general, it is more convenient and more cost-effective to buy them in a kit form because everything you need is already in place, and it takes less time to complete the process. These kits contain everything you need: the peroxide, the toothpaste, hydrogen peroxide gel, and a pH-neutralizing agent. The bleaching agents can also be purchased separately.
The best option is probably the all-in-one kit. This type of treatment combines all of the best aspects of different treatment methods. You get a professional teeth whitening treatment, the sensitivity level reducing treatment, and a topical gel or rinse to apply to your teeth after the treatment is finished. You can purchase these kits online or at most drug stores for under $100. They typically come with a 3-month warranty, so you know that if something happens after the warranty period, or if you want to continue using the treatment, that you can.
These kits come with two applications a day, and usually you only need to apply the gel twice – once in the morning and once before you go to bed. The daily application is for one week and then another application is recommended for three weeks. If you use them properly, you should experience significant improvements in both your smile and overall health within just three weeks. It is important to use these treatments consistently, because continued usage can help to stave off serious gum disease and cavities, so if you see gradual changes in your smile, talk to your dentist immediately.