Should You Use Hydrogen Peroxide to Whiten Your Teeth?

Hydrogen peroxide is a common component of many at-home teeth whitening treatments. For this reason, many people wonder whether store-bought hydrogen peroxide will work just as well when it comes to making smiles brighter. Does it work? Is it safe? Is it better to get professional whitening treatment from your dentist? Continue reading below to find out.

What Are the Facts?

When used in teeth whitening treatment, hydrogen peroxide acts as a bleaching agent. It’s able to partially penetrate the enamel, or the outer layer of the tooth, to remove chemicals that result in stains. Studies have shown that even using a small amount of the solution on your teeth can remove discoloration on the surfaces. But is it safe?

Other research has proven that if you have sensitive teeth, hydrogen peroxide may not be the answer for you. It’s all too easy to leave the solution on for too long, resulting in damage to the enamel. Leaving it on for only a short period of time causes virtually no harm, but you don’t want to take that risk, especially if your teeth are already sensitive. In addition, it can irritate the gum tissue, causing it to become red and inflamed. For better, safer results, it’s best to visit your dentist for a professional whitening treatment.

Why Should You See Your Dentist for Teeth Whitening?

Most dentists actually use hydrogen peroxide to some extent in their bleaching gels, but with a higher concentration. The main reason you’ll want to visit your dentist for whitening is that they are qualified to determine the strength of the solution and the amount of time it will be applied to your teeth. Patients with sensitive teeth especially should consult with their dentist before trying any over-the-counter whitening treatments like hydrogen peroxide.

Your dentist will also be able to provide more long-lasting results. His or her whitening gel will be better able to penetrate the enamel and remove stains on a much deeper level than store-bought hydrogen peroxide could reach, all in a safe manner that won’t hurt your teeth and gums.

Hydrogen peroxide can be a quick and easy fix if you have mild discoloration. If you have more severe staining and sensitive teeth, however, it’s definitely worth investing in professional-grade treatment from your dentist.

About the Author

Dr. Mark Simeone founded Chester County Dental Arts in Coatesville, PA in February 2016. He is a general dentist, and works with a talented team consisting of another general dentist, an orthodontist, and periodontist. This ensures that most of your needs can be met under one roof. The practice also offers both at-home and in-office whitening treatment to provide you with a safe, brilliantly white smile. To learn more, contact Dr. Simeone at (610) 383-1600.