Teeth Whitening: The Professional Solution

So, how does effective tooth whitening actually work?

Here’s the science behind it…

Tooth whitening works because Hydrogen Peroxide breaks down into water and an oxygen free radical. There are four key steps in the process.

Professional Whitening Gels

When it comes to professional whitening agents, the two key choices are Hydrogen Peroxide (HP) or Carbamide Peroxide (CP).

These come in different strengths to suit a range of different patient needs.

Some common strengths you may see include:

• 6% Hydrogen Peroxide (equivalent to approx 18% Carbamide Peroxide) – this is the strongest EU accepted whitening gel that can be used for at home whitening. Typical recommended wear time is 30-90 minutes.
• 16% Carbamide Peroxide – This gives very similar results to the 6% Hydrogen Peroxide. However, as Carbamide Peroxide is applied, it breaks down slowly into Hydrogen Peroxide and urea (approximately a third of the strength of CP).

Answering Common Whitening Sensitivity Questions

Understandably, sensitivity is a concern for patients when using any kind of bleaching agent.

Here are some answers to the most commonly asked questions of the moment:

Does Teeth Whitening Cause Sensitivity?

For teeth whitening to work, the bleaching agent must penetrate the tooth structure which can temporarily cause microscopic exposed dentin. This can lead some to feel sensitivity or discomfort in the short term, however this pain usually reverses shortly after the whitening procedure. For short term relief, use a desensitizing toothpaste that contains potassium nitrate.

How Do you Stop Your Teeth from Hurting After Whitening?

For minor pain, anything containing potassium nitrate (such as a desensitizing toothpaste) can help to ease the discomfort that is felt shortly after whitening. Avoiding any triggers such as hot and cold foods makes good sense, and for more considerable pain; consult with your dentist for a sustained release version of potassium nitrate (which can be worn in trays).

Why Do My Teeth Hurt When I Whiten them?

Your teeth may hurt when you whiten them because you have naturally sensitive teeth to begin with, or because the whitening process has temporarily caused sensitivity as the bleaching agent has worked to whiten your teeth. This sensitivity is typically short term and will last for a maximum of 48 hours. Whilst your sensitivity is at its highest, ensure to use a toothpaste suitable for sensitive teeth.

How White Dental Beauty Gels Manage Sensitivity

White Dental Beauty offer tooth whitening gels available in 6% HP, and 5%, 10% and 16% CP. All the gels are powered by NOVON®.

NOVON® is a whitening compound containing Hydrogen Peroxide, urea and sodium tripolyphosphate which produces a pH jump into the alkaline pH range upon application. This ''pH jump'' enhances the release of perhydroxyl ions for a faster whitening effect.

Choosing the Right Whitening Gel For Sensitive Patients

It is important to consider the following when choosing the right gel for patients who suffer from sensitivity:

• PH Level – Peroxide is most efficient and active at a neutral pH of 7.0 or above. Some companies struggle to stabilise the product and, therefore, reduce the pH level to compensate this. This makes it more acidic and increases the chance of sensitivity and possible damage to the enamel. Make sure you choose a gel with a near neutral pH that has an increased alkalinity once applied.
• Water Content – It is important for gels to be water based, as peroxide dehydrates the teeth which is believed to be a contributing sensitivity factor. Look for a gel with a high-water content of approximately 20% that still retains optimum viscosity.
• Desensitisers – Some gels contain desensitisers such as Potassium Nitrate and Fluoride, which are very effective at reducing sensitivity during the treatment. It is important to bear this in mind when making a decision.