Poring over the market for teeth-whitening products? Cut your dry eyes some slack. Let us help you understand how Hydrogen Peroxide, a bleaching solution can help you get a bright and beautiful smile.
If you are someone who is diligent about dental hygiene, chances are that you've already heard about Hydrogen Peroxide. If not, let us make the introductions. Hydrogen peroxide is a chemical compound with the formula H₂O₂. In its raw form, it is a pale blue liquid that is slightly more viscous than water. It is used as an oxidizer, bleaching agent, and antiseptic.
Hydrogen Peroxide has emerged as a leading whitening agent in oral care in recent years. Used in several dental care items, it aims to whiten your teeth with just a few applications. In this blog, we will take a look at how hydrogen peroxide restores/enhances your teeth’s radiance, what are its side effects, and how you should go about using it. Let’s get straight to the substance!
Table of Contents
How does Hydrogen Peroxide whiten your teeth?
Hydrogen peroxide works by removing stains and dissolving the substances causing discolouration of your teeth. With strong bleaching properties, it may put your enamel at risk when taken in unmoderated doses.
Nonetheless, over-the-counter teeth-whitening treatments that have a hydrogen peroxide content of less than 10% are considered safe. A common element in mouthwashes and toothpaste, Hydrogen Peroxide’s utility is maintained by the American Dental Association (ADA).
Manufacturers dilute hydrogen peroxide with other whitening solutions to assure its safety while efficiently brightening teeth by chemical reaction or physical stain eradication. Studies show that toothpastes with as little as 1% hydrogen peroxide concentration, when included in your dental regimens, can leave a significant impact on your dental health.
Benefits of using hydrogen peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide as a whitening solution is commonly available and easily accessible. Found in mouthwashes, toothpastes, and various whitening products such as gels, pens, and strips, they can be easily made a part of one’s dental routine to reap regular benefits from.
Following are the common benefits derived from the use of hydrogen peroxide:
- It breaks down stains and enhances overall tooth shade.
- Hydrogen Peroxide brightens teeth and breaks biofilm without significantly compromising tooth enamel strength.
- Research indicates that hydrogen peroxide may contribute to improved oral health by removing plaque and bacteria responsible for gingivitis, a gum disease, potentially reducing associated inflammation.
- Hydrogen peroxide eases sore throat by removing the bacteria in the mouth.
Purexa’s hydrogen peroxide mouthwash is designed to meet dental standards offering a gentle yet effective solution for maintaining oral health.
Why choose Purexa Hydrogen Peroxide Mouthwash ?
- Our formula helps prevent infections and promotes healing of oral wounds.
- Gargling with our mouthwash helps you get a brighter smile.
- Our solution combats gum diseases by targeting bacteria in plaque.
How to use Purexa's Hydrogen Peroxide Mouthwash?
- Swish with our mouthwash, featuring a 1.5% hydrogen peroxide concentration.
- Gargle for about 30 seconds.
- Spit out the solution, embracing its gentle foaming action.
Side Effects of using hydrogen peroxide
Inadequate use of hydrogen peroxide can lead to some side effects, such as those found in commercial whitening products. However, when used appropriately, hydrogen peroxide—commonly included in these products—is generally safe, especially in over-the-counter (OTC) formulations with low concentrations.
Long-term use or high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide, however, may cause gum sensitivity, therefore in order to minimize any irritation, rest intervals between treatments are required.
When used over an extended period of time, it can cause extremely irritated gums and either temporary or permanent tooth sensitivity.
Although hydrogen peroxide is generally safe, consumers should follow any directions on the product's label or dentist's office to reduce dangers.
The use of hydrogen peroxide may cause side effects such as enamel erosion, increased tooth sensitivity, gum irritation, changes in the color or degeneration of dental restorations such as crowns, bridges, or implants, and changes in the texture of the tooth's surface.
Bottom Line
Long story short, hydrogen peroxide is a great tool for effectively removing stains and improving the overall shade of teeth. Although there is no denying its advantages for dental care, it is important to proceed with caution. Using it sensibly and under dental discretions guarantees safety and reduces any potential negative effects.
Remember that well-informed decision-making is the first step towards getting your dental health in order!
Written by Dr. Shipra Jaiswal, BDS, MDS, a Periodontist and Gums Specialist
