Is Teeth Whitening Safe?

Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental procedure that many people turn to for a brighter, whiter smile. 

However, with numerous over-the-counter and professional options available, it's definitely understandable to ask – Is teeth whitening safe and are there risks, side effects, or long-term impacts on dental health?

Is Teeth Whitening Effective?

When choosing a teeth whitening method, effectiveness is often the top priority. Most whitening products aim to remove stains and improve the color of teeth, with varying degrees of success depending on the product type and individual circumstances.

The most common teeth whitening methods are:

OTC Whitening Strips and Toothpaste

These are popular options due to their convenience and affordability. Whitening toothpastes contain mild abrasives and sometimes low concentrations of hydrogen peroxide or other bleaching agents. 

However, their effectiveness is often limited to removing surface stains, known as extrinsic discoloration. Whitening strips are a bit stronger and contain bleaching agents, but results can be moderate and may take longer to appear than professional options.

Professional Whitening Treatments

In-office whitening treatments often use hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide at higher concentrations, which can penetrate deeper into the teeth to treat intrinsic discoloration—stains embedded in the tooth enamel. 

Professional treatments may also use UV light to accelerate the whitening process. These treatments are generally more effective and longer-lasting but come at a higher cost.

Custom-Fit Trays

Some dental offices offer custom-fit trays for at-home use, often with a gel containing carbamide peroxide. These trays provide a more even and controlled application, which can lead to better, more consistent whitening results compared to generic OTC trays.

Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal toothpaste and other products have gained popularity as a natural alternative for whitening. However, they primarily work as an abrasive and are more effective on surface stains.