create your own

Hydrogen Peroxide Teeth Whitening Guide

94
rate or flag this page

By Jacqusey


Hydrogen peroxide is a weak acid with oxidizing properties which act like a bleaching agent when used in teeth whitening solutions. It's also often found in tooth pastes, disinfectants, and mouth washes. Hydrogen peroxide teeth whitening can be completed in a number of different ways. There are many commercially available solutions on the market that offer hydrogen peroxide as a bleaching agent, and you can also easily create your own remedy using hydrogen peroxide for at home teeth whitening. This article will give you some tips and suggestions on the various methods you can use, and finding the best hydrogen peroxide teeth whitening method for you.


Hydrogen peroxide is produced by the combination of oxygen and hydrogen, and has been routinely and safely used in the process of teeth whitening for years. In typical hydrogen peroxide teeth whitening solutions, you'll find a strength of 3% to 10% with varying degrees of effectiveness. One thing to consider is that you may experience sensitivity when using hydrogen peroxide to whiten your teeth, particularly in your gum area. However, the discomfort is usually minimal and can be equated to a burning sensation that typically does not last once the peroxide solution is removed or rinsed from the teeth.

To create your own at home teeth whitening solution, a popular method is to combine baking soda (which you can find at any grocery store), with hydrogen peroxide to form a thick paste like consistency. You can also add some mint flavored toothpaste which will make the solution more pleasant to brush with, as well as a little table salt for extra exfoliation. It is very important that this mixture is not ingested, but should be used in place of regular toothpaste once or twice a week. For added whitening benefits, you can also rinse your mouth after brushing with a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution.

It's important to note that hydrogen peroxide teeth whitening is considered to be safe and effective by the American Dental Association. However, be sure to read all safety labels and do not ingest or swallow your tooth whitening products. Also take note of any tooth or gum sensitivity that you may experience, and notify your dentist if this sensitivity persists for a prolonged period of time.

Another option is to choose an over the counter, home tooth whitening solution that uses carbamide peroxide and/or hydrogen peroxide in its formulation. These products (including teeth whitening trays, gels and strips) are generally more pleasant to use and may provide faster and longer lasting effects. Although whitening toothpastes do not have the strength or intensity of teeth bleaching products, these can be used in conjunction with other products enhance the effects of home tooth whitening in between treatments.

A more sophisticated and longer lasting alternative to hydrogen peroxide teeth whitening would be in-office dental treatments, which employ the use of higher concentrated bleaching agents. There's also the new and more sophisticated laser teeth whitening procedures. Of course, dental office treatments will be much more expensive than using at home teeth whitening methods, but they may be the ideal option for you if you're looking for very rapid results.

working