Understanding The Science Behind Teeth Whitening

There is science behind how teeth whitening works. Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental treatment.There are different teeth whitening methods. Each teeth whitening method has slightly different science.What is Used in the Three Types of Teeth WhiteningIf you’ve been thinking about whiter, brighter teeth, chances are you came across some different options. From whitening toothpastes to in-Office whitening, there’s truly something for everyone. Let’s break the different types down:1. Whitening toothpastes can remove stains on the tooth surface by polishing your teeth. However, most whitening toothpastes are a whitening waste! According to the NIH, most whitening tooth pastes include non-naturally occurring acidic chemicals and abrasives. Acidic and abrasive toothpastes can damage tooth enamel. If you insist on a whitening tooth paste, opt for a product dentists prefer like Cocoshine Whitening Tooth Paste.2. Over-the-counter and take-home whiteners such as strips, gels with trays remove extrinsic stains. The most common whitening ingredients for these products are hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide. Without custom fit or oversight from a dental professional, you could burn your gums with over-the-counter teeth whitening.Extrinsic tooth stainsare stains on your tooth enamel. These are mostly caused by tobacco, dark fruits, mustard, and beverages.3. In-office whitening is performed in the dentist’s chair. In-office whitening is safest way to whiten your smile. In office whitening is faster and whitens better than other options. With in-office teeth whitening, medical-grade hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide are applied to the surface of your teeth. The chemical reaction that whitens teeth is accelerated with an LED whitening light. The light activates the peroxide for faster results. And when we say fast, we mean fast! With the ZOOM teeth whitening system, you’ll see of up to 10 shades whiter in an hour.Bonus!Dr. Sarah Frahm’s patients receive a free professional whitening kit.What is the Chemical Reaction Involved in Teeth Bleaching?Solution with carbamide peroxide is used is used with your custom teeth whitening trays. Scientifically, here is what happens: When carbamide peroxide is applied to teeth, it releases about one-third of its content as hydrogen peroxide. Once the hydrogen peroxide soaks into the enamel of your teeth, it undergoes a chemical oxidation process which whitens your teeth. Reactive oxygen molecules interact with organic-colored compounds in the enamel.According to the ADA, depending upon how your teeth became stained influences the effectiveness of whitening treatments. Yellow and brown stains are more responsive than white stains. Veneers, implants, crowns, and restorations cannot be whitened. Whitening treatment only enhances natural teeth.If you are looking for a brighter smile, talk to Dr. Sarah Frahm about the benefits of teeth whitening. From gel and tray whitening to in-office ZOOM treatment, there’s something for everyone. Give us a call at 831-372-8011 to schedule an appointment or contact us through the link below. Dr. Sarah Frahm