How Does Tooth Whitening Work ?
There are many ways to whiten your teeth-from whitening toothpastes and other products that can remove many surface stains for very little cost, to light-activated whitening techniques in a dentist’s office that cost up to $1,000 and can produce dramatic results. All whitening techniques work in one of two ways: Bleaching procedures change your natural tooth color, usually anywhere from five to seven shades brighter. In-Office (chair side) whitening and At-Home (tray) whitening both rely on bleaching. Bleaches contain an active ingredient, most often carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide in concentrations of 10-22%, which helps remove both deep and surface stains. There are significant cost differences between different bleaching procedures: Non-bleaching procedures work by physical and/or chemical action to help remove surface stains. All toothpastes rely on mild abrasion to remove surface stains between dental visits. Whitening toothpastes have special chemical or polishing agents
Teeth can become darker or discoloured for several reasons. Stains on the surface of the tooth can be cleaned off with whitening toothpaste. If the stains from foods, drinks or tobacco, are into the tooth itself, then whitening by a chemical cleaner can be used. This works by the mild chemicals in the whitening paste or gel chemical removing the stains.
With effective whitening gel, carbamide gel approved by the American Dental Association, placed into custom made appliance worn over the teeth. This gently releases a special form of oxygen, which can pass into and between the enamel crystals down to the dentine layer. After a small number of application the colour of the enamel and dentine are gently and permanently lightened without damaging or weakening the teeth whatsoever.
