How Do Teeth Whitening Gels Work?

Teeth whitening gels, are used to lighten the color by just a few shades or sometimes more dramatically to dazzling white, but how do they work? Let's find out.

Whitening gels typically used in the dentist's office use a solution of carbamide peroxide mixed with glycerin to whiten , sometimes with aid of laser light to enhance the whitening gel's oxidizing abilities.

At-home whitening gels usually combine a solution of hydrogen peroxide and glycerin to aid the whitening.

In general, at-home whitening gel kits and in-office gel whiteners are loaded into plastic trays made to fit snugly around your teeth. Once inserted, the whitening gel remains in contact anywhere from twenty minutes to overnight, depending on the method being used.

During the process, the glycerin, mixed with peroxide, begins to draw moisture from the teeth, allowing the peroxide to soak in. The teeth whitening gel penetrates the enamel to the dentin beneath in order to oxidize stain pigments that are trapped in micro-crevices on the surface.

Increased sensitivity to heat and cold may be one side effect of whitening gels, but should only be temporary. Much will depend on the length of time you leave the whitening gel on, and the frequency of times you use it each week.

There are also a few at-home gel whiteners that do not use a glycerin base, lessening the sensitivity factor. Common sense says, if your mouth is feeling irritated and overly sensitive, discontinue use of the whitening gel until symptoms have passed.

While more expensive, dental gel whitening techniques are usually more effective than at-home whitening gels. However, when selecting a home whitening gel kit, find one with a 21% concentration of peroxide. These whitening gels provide better whitening action.

No whitening gel can provide permanent whitening, and once they are as white as you'd like them to be, periodic use of the whitening gels will help you maintain your dazzling smile.