It is easy to go to the store and buy a product that promises you a brighter smile, but do you know what’s in the package? What’s in the product that gives your teeth some much-needed white? Don’t just purchase a teeth-whitening product just because it says it can work. Read this article and find out more.
Dull, stained, and yellow teeth – no one loves them. Sometimes we bring those conditions on ourselves, other times it could be an underlying issue. Whatever the case, the search for beautiful smiles has turned the teeth whitening industry into a billion-dollar venture.
If you are in your thirties like me, then you know that whitening your teeth wasn’t exactly among your priorities growing up. You’d brush your teeth every morning and evening, eat right, and maybe visit the dentist once in a while to take care of a few molar problems. Some would say that was the perfect world.
It wasn’t, though. Sometimes playing it safe as we did just doesn’t cut it. Plaque creeps up on you, and you only notice it when you’re old enough to realize that your teeth aren’t as attractive as most. All the teeth whitening ads get to you, and you decide to give it a try. Before you rush to buy just any product for your teeth, there are a couple of things you need to know.
Major Ingredients To Look For In Teeth Whitening Products
Peroxide
Any bleaching agent can be strong, especially in high percentages. Bleaching agents in teeth whitening products are popular because they can eliminate deep and external stains on teeth.
Not just any bleaching agents are good for your teeth. Hydrogen peroxide is often used in teeth whitening toothpaste and products to assist in brightening. However, only small amounts of this bleaching agent are safe for regular use. Too much and you risk getting sensitive gums and teeth.
You’ve probably noticed that some products contain hydrogen peroxide and others have carbamide peroxide. Carbamide peroxide breaks down into hydrogen peroxide to whiten your teeth. Though the results in these two compounds are the same, carbamide peroxide works faster than hydrogen peroxide.
Sodium Bicarbonate
Or baking soda, if you may. If you would rather steer clear from bleaching agents found in most teeth whitening products, you could try baking soda. As a mild abrasive, it can get rid of the stain-causing bacteria in your mouth and on your teeth.
Though it is less harsh compared to bleaching, the whitening properties are only superficial. If your teeth stains are much deeper and heavy, a natural ingredient such as baking soda may not be highly effective.
There are few other natural options to whiten your teeth, but peroxides and sodium bicarbonate are at the top of the list if you want results.
Conclusion
Many other inactive ingredients work together with the main to give you better teeth. Before picking any product, natural or a bleaching agent, consult with your dentist first. He or she will tell how extensive your staining is and whether bleaching your teeth would be a good option for you.