Is Hydrogen Peroxide Safe for Teeth?

Are you thinking about trying out teeth whitening so you can own the perfect set of pearly whites? However you’re questioning yourself, ‘Is hydrogen peroxide safe for teeth?

Well, the answer is it is safe when used in the right proportions. In this article, we will look into the benefits of hydrogen peroxide and everything you need to know about this whitening teeth agent that will help you boost your smile and improve your confidence.

What is hydrogen peroxide?

Hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) is a mild antiseptic that is used in most homes to sterilise wounds, clean, whiten laundry and wash vegetables. It is a clear liquid with a range of different uses and is used as an active ingredient in commercial teeth whitening products such as toothpaste, whitening gel and other common over-the-counter products.

How Does Hydrogen Peroxide Whiten Teeth?

Hydrogen peroxide is safe and effective when used at appropriate concentrations and under the guidance of your Warrnambool dentist. Hydrogen peroxide is an oxidising agent, which means it helps break down large pigmented molecules in your teeth that cause yellow stains by lightening their colour and making them whiter. An individual’s teeth may discolour for many reasons, like age, smoking, poor oral hygiene, and highly pigmented foods and drinks.

Benefits of Hydrogen Peroxide for Teeth Whitening

Hydrogen peroxide functions as a whitening agent, whitening below the enamel’s surface and making teeth look whiter and brighter, giving you those perfectly pearly whites.

Hydrogen peroxide’s oxidising properties help remove discolouration and restore teeth to their natural whiteness. Apart from whitening, it also helps improve your oral health by removing plaque and other bacteria that cause bad breath (halitosis), gingivitis and gum disease.

How to Safely Use Hydrogen Peroxide for Teeth Whitening

Are you still wondering if hydrogen peroxide is safe for teeth, and how do I use it safely to whiten my teeth? You can easily find hydrogen peroxide in mouthwashes, toothpaste, gels, pens, strips, and other whitening products. Using these products is fairly simple and the instructions are already handed to you and are generally easy to follow. Whitening toothpastes and rinses often have low concentrations of hydrogen peroxide and should be used at least twice daily under the recommendation of a dental professional for two minutes for the best whitening results.Please keep in mind that research reports state that whitening products and treatment with hydrogen peroxide concentrations over 3% should only be used under the supervision of your Warrnambool dentist.

FAQs

Q. Can I brush my teeth every night with hydrogen peroxide?

Hydrogen peroxide helps remove stains from your teeth, making them feel smooth and clean. However, this can be dangerous if you use too much of the product or apply it too often. If you do use hydrogen peroxide more than once a day or week, then there is a chance that you will ruin your enamel. This is why it’s important to consult your dentist about how often you should use it.

Q. Is it safe to put hydrogen peroxide directly on your teeth?

Hydrogen peroxide can be applied to teeth in low concentrations, but excessive use or prolonged exposure can cause damage to gums and teeth.

Q. How long does it take for hydrogen peroxide to whiten teeth?

The time it takes to whiten teeth with hydrogen peroxide depends on the concentration and desired result, ranging from 1 hour in a dental chair to 2 weeks of daily brushing.

Q. What happens if you use too much hydrogen peroxide on teeth?

Limit hydrogen peroxide use to once or twice daily and monitor the mouth for discomfort or irritation to prevent tooth enamel damage or gum irritation.