Are you wondering how teeth whitening gel actually works and how you can safely use it to whiten your teeth? Then allow us to enlighten you!
Yellowing, stained teeth have become quite a common case. With the help of a recommended gel from your dentist or over-the-counter whitening gels, your teeth can become lighter. Your dentist can therefore assist you in effectively and safely brightening your smile right from the comfort of your home.
How Whitening Gels Work
It’s normal to be inquisitive about dental whitening gel: the composition and how it works. Whitening gels contain bleaching agents and are harmless for the majority of teeth. A large number of gels are composed of hydrogen peroxide and many other additional ingredients which help to enhance the flavour and performance of the product.
Elemental Composition of Whitening Gels
- Carbamide Peroxide and Hydrogen Peroxide
A primary ingredient usually used in many dental whitening gels is carbamide peroxide, a popular bleaching agent in several dental products. It is also a source of hydrogen peroxide, which bleaches the teeth by reacting with present stains, altering their chemical formation to reverse discolouration.According to the American Dental Association (ADA), hydrogen peroxide is useful in the removal of deep discolouration in the teeth, as well as surface stains. - Quick-Acting and Slow-Acting Whitening Gels
During the in-office whitening, dentists can make use of quick-acting whitening gels that have higher hydrogen peroxide concentrations: about 15% and 38%. Thus, the process becomes much more accelerated than at-home whitening, although this can consequently result in higher sensitivity.Also, dentists can provide carbamide peroxide as a slow-acting bleach that can be used at home. During the first visitation, the dentist can take an impression of your teeth and then give you whitening trays at a follow-up visitation, as well as a whitening gel to regularly apply in the trays at home. - Miscellaneous Ingredients
In order to help reduce tooth sensitivity, several teeth whitening products feature other ingredients. For example, amorphous calcium phosphate and potassium nitrate are two common ingredients in whitening gels. Both ingredients have been reported to help decrease sensitivity. The ADA, however, states that post-whitening sensitivity is most often temporary.
Who Should Use Dental Whitening?
Although dental whitening gels effectively erase stains and lighten the teeth, they are however not meant for everyone. According to the American Academy of Paediatrics, parents are advised to wait until after all of the baby teeth of a child have fallen out before commencing whitening. Also, it is necessary to meticulously read the label of the product for any instructions, like recommended ages.
Also, it is important that everyone consults their dentist before using any whitening gel. Over-the-counter dental whitening gel products may not have the best results on teeth with very dark fillings, crowns or stains.
Quick Home Tips To Know
First of all, it is important that you contact your dentist before commencing a bleaching treatment using a tooth whitening gel. Your dentist can design a custom tray to perfectly fit with your mouth contours, while also explaining how you should use the gel.
For instance, you will be told why you need to always brush your teeth before the application of the treatment gel. Also, you may be required to wear the tray for a couple of hours overnight or during the day, depending on the product. As recommended by your dentist, you may be asked to use the mouth tray for a span of 2 weeks so as to achieve the targeted outcomes. Avoid swallowing any gel. Using a soft toothbrush, a clean finger or piece of cloth, gently collect the residues that may have gathered in your gums or teeth
Are there any negative effects of teeth whitening gels?
The ADA has disclosed that peroxide-based bleaching agents are liable to cause gum irritation. This can occur if the gel has been incorrectly applied or used with a poor-fitting tray.
In addition, teeth whitening can also cause tooth sensitivity, although both sensitivity and irritation typically end after you finish your teeth treatment. Conclusively, it is most recommended that you whiten under the counsel of your dentist to avoid any potential side effects.
To keep and maintain a whiter smile, be sure to floss every day and brush with a whitening toothpaste twice a day. Don’t forget to also visit your nearest clinic for teeth whitening in London.