Hydrogen peroxide is one of the most common antiseptics you can find in most first aid kits. It is also an active ingredient in most tooth whitening treatment products, which can lead to a lot of people wondering whether a regular hydrogen peroxide (HP) you find in stores makes an excellent tooth whitener.

While it may help whiten your teeth in specific situations, there are some very important safety issues people need to consider. It can cause damage to your enamel if you are not using it the right way. This article will take a closer look at this chemical compound and how it can help whiten your teeth.

To find out more about this chemical, click here for details.

Is hydrogen peroxide effective?

It is a common and pretty effective active chemical ingredient in most commercial tooth whitening products. These tooth whitening products usually contain hydrogen and carbamide peroxide that act as bleaching agents to change the user’s teeth. The chemical compound peroxide can partially penetrate the teeth’s layers, removing any compounds that can cause stains and discoloration.

At least 10% of store-bought teeth whitening products have hydrogen peroxide as their main bleaching component. Dental professionals may also offer whitening treatment programs using hydrogen peroxide with a 40% concentration.

On the other hand, a lot of store-bought hydrogen peroxide has a concentration of up to 3%. A lot of people worry that higher concentrations of these chemicals in tooth whitening products can lead to various side effects like tooth sensitivity and enamel breakdown, but it is not always the case. But it does appear that the length of time hydrogen peroxide stays on the teeth is very important.

As a matter of fact, according to studies, a dental gel with a lower concentration of HP has more negative effects on the enamel when it remained on the tooth for a more extended period. Gels with a high concentration of HP usually require less time on the teeth to be very effective.

It can minimize the risk of damaging the enamel. But another study suggests that commercial mouthwashes containing 1.5% HP can cause a lightening in tooth enamel after four weeks. People suffering from sensitive teeth may want to talk with their dental professional before using this product to whiten their enamels.

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How to do it?

To make a mouthwash from HP, add two ounces of 3% HP and 2 ounces of water in a small cup. Gargle this mixture daily for two to four minutes before spitting it out. Don’t swallow the liquid at all costs. Alternatively, homemade dental pastes can help people remove minor dental stains.

To make these pastes, add one teaspoon of HP to a couple of teaspoons of baking soda to make a thick and smooth paste. Use the paste when brushing using a good toothbrush. Allow it to sit in your mouth for a couple of minutes and rinse it away using clean water.

Do not swallow it under any circumstances. A lot of these over-the-counter products contain either carbamide peroxide or HP, which can help break down to HP. According to ADA or the American Dental Association, these goods that have the Seal of Acceptance from ADAA are effective and safe when it comes to whitening the enamel.

Individuals need to follow the instructions and procedures on how to apply them carefully to achieve the optimum result. In cases where the discoloration is not that serious, a simple mouthwash with a small amount of HP may be enough to remove these stains. People who notice tenderness or pain while these products stop using them immediately and contact a dental professional.

Safety and risks

There are risks people need to consider before using this chemical to whiten the enamel. Its common side effects include gum and tooth sensitivity, as well as inflamed and irritated gums. Individuals experiencing these symptoms after using these products need to stop using them and contact their dental professionals to discuss their options. Some individuals may prefer to undergo HP tooth whitening in clinics.

The dental professional might ask the individual to come in for a thorough cleaning first. Cleaning the enamel surface will allow the chemicals to penetrate it uniformly. During this session, the professional will also want to look at cracks because it will enable the chemicals to penetrate even further. It can become an issue if chemicals come in contact with delicate dentin underneath because there is a big chance that it can cause sensitivity or irritation.

Other at-home whitening solutions

There are other solutions to enamel whitening that individuals can use in the comfort of their homes. But while some evidence may suggest that these solutions are effective, a lot of these standard home solutions have little to no scientific evidence to support their use. But these remedies to whiten the enamel are pretty safe to try.

Salt and charcoal

Lemon juice

Baking soda

Oil pulling using coconut oils

Apple cider vinegar

The American Dental Association don’t recommend the methods mentioned above and points out that there are studies to show that some of the methods discussed above are not as effective as ADA-certified products and points out that there are studies to show that some of these techniques can have a negative effect on people’s oral health or can cause adverse effects. No matter what types of solutions people use, they need to consider talking with a dental professional before using dental products.

In conclusion

Hydrogen Peroxide or HP is a common remedy for tooth whitening that you can usually find in the comfort of your home or in dental offices. A simple mouthwash made from this chemical may help people remove simple stains. But people should avoid leaving the solution on their teeth unattended for a more extended period.

Strong solutions are available for individuals who have serious stain problems both from over-the-counter drug stores or from clinics. Whether it is a product bought in drug stores or in a clinic, people should always ask a dental professional for advice before using it. It is better to be safe than be sorry later.