Table of contents:
- Should you use whitening toothpaste to whiten teeth?
- Whitening toothpaste does not change the original color of the teeth
- Be aware of the side effects of whitening toothpaste
Have yellow teeth makes you feel inferior? Dont worry. There are many ways to whiten teeth that you can try. Apart from going to the dentist, brushing your teeth with whitening toothpaste can be the cheapest way. They say this toothpaste is effective for whitening teeth in an instant, hassle-free. That is right?
Should you use whitening toothpaste to whiten teeth?
Actually all toothpaste that is sold freely on the market can help remove stains on teeth due to consuming tea, coffee, or smoking. This is due to the content of abrasives such as alumina, silica, calcium carbonate, and calcium phosphate contained in it.
However, especially for toothpaste that contains whitening, the abrasive content is stronger, making it more effective at removing stains than regular toothpaste.
A number of over-the-counter teeth whitening products also contain carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide which can lighten dull teeth to a whiter level.
Some whitening toothpastes also contain chemicals such as blue covarine. This provides a brightening illusion effect that makes your teeth appear whiter. You can brush your teeth with whitening toothpaste twice a day.
Whitening toothpaste does not change the original color of the teeth
When used regularly twice a day, whitening toothpaste is effective at disguising surface stains in two to six weeks. If you use toothpaste that contains blue covarine, the effect will be seen immediately after you brush your teeth.
However, it is important to understand that toothpaste containing bleach does not change the original color of the teeth. Nor does it remove stains that penetrate and remain in the deepest part of the tooth surface (dentin). This toothpaste is only able to disguise stains on the outer surface of the teeth, aka tooth enamel.
Teeth have many layers that can change color for many reasons. The outer layer of the teeth can change color due to the food and drinks you consume daily. Meanwhile, the innermost layer of the tooth, called dentin, will naturally turn yellow with age.
Be aware of the side effects of whitening toothpaste
Although it is effective in helping disguise stains on your teeth, you should be careful with using whitening toothpaste. If used for a long time, toothpaste can cause tooth enamel damage.
A study published in the American Journal Dentist reports that a number of whitening toothpastes over the counter can cause tooth enamel erosion if used for a long period of time.
Unfortunately, this study has only been tested on animals, so further research is still needed to ascertain the effect of toothpaste containing whitening on human tooth decay.
If you want to use whitening toothpaste, look for a product that has the seal of a reputable organization, such as the American Dental Association. This seal shows that the toothpaste you are using is safe and effective for removing stains on your teeth.
It's a good idea to consult your dentist before using a whitening toothbrush or other teeth whitening product.