If you are unsatisfied with specialized teeth whitening gels and toothpaste, hydrogen peroxide can be a safe alternative. In this article, we will explore different methods of using hydrogen peroxide for teeth whitening.
Is Hydrogen Peroxide Good For Teeth Whitening?
- Hydrogen peroxide is an effective and affordable option for teeth whitening.
- It acts as a lightening agent by penetrating the enamel and whitening the teeth.
- It also has antimicrobial properties that can benefit people with oral ailments like plaque and gingivitis.
- It can help counter bad breath by eliminating odor-causing bacteria in the mouth. However, consult your doctor before using hydrogen peroxide directly for this purpose.
How To Use Hydrogen Peroxide for Teeth Whitening
There are several methods you can use to whiten your teeth with hydrogen peroxide:
- Gargling With Hydrogen Peroxide:
- Mix 1 tablespoon of 3% hydrogen peroxide with 1 tablespoon of water.
- Swish the mixture in your mouth for 2-3 minutes.
- Spit it out and rinse your mouth with plain water.
- Repeat 2-3 times a week.
- Cotton Swab And Hydrogen Peroxide:
- Dip a cotton swab in 3% hydrogen peroxide solution.
- Rub the swab against your teeth.
- Leave the hydrogen peroxide on for a minute or two and then rinse your mouth with water.
- Repeat 2-3 times a week.
- Baking Soda And Hydrogen Peroxide:
- Mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with 3% hydrogen peroxide to form a paste.
- Apply the paste to your toothbrush and brush your teeth with it.
- Use this DIY teeth whitening toothpaste 2 times a week.
- Listerine And Hydrogen Peroxide:
- Mix 1 part Listerine mouthwash with 1 part hydrogen peroxide.
- Use the mixture as a mouthwash to rinse your mouth.
- Rinse with clean water afterwards.
- Repeat 3 times a week.
- Hydrogen Peroxide And Lemon Juice:
- Mix a few drops of lemon juice and 2 tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide with 1 teaspoon of baking soda.
- Apply the paste to your teeth and leave it on for a minute or two.
- Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water.
- Do this 1-2 times a week.
- Hydrogen Peroxide And Salt:
- Mix 2 tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide with 1 tablespoon of salt.
- Rub the paste against your teeth with your fingertip or a toothbrush.
- Rub gently for 1-2 minutes and then rinse your mouth.
- Repeat 2 times a week.
Are There Any Side Effects Of Using Hydrogen Peroxide On Teeth?
- Using hydrogen peroxide solution may cause temporary gum irritation or tooth sensitivity. This usually subsides soon.
- Do not swallow hydrogen peroxide solution as it may cause gastrointestinal issues.
- Ingesting hydrogen peroxide can cause injury to the esophagus.
- Avoid using hydrogen peroxide on children’s teeth.
- It is not recommended to combine hydrogen peroxide with over-the-counter teeth whitening products like at-home whitening pens without consulting a dentist.
Is it safe to whiten teeth with Hydrogen Peroxide?
Hydrogen peroxide can be used to whiten teeth, but it can also cause side effects if used incorrectly or in a high concentration. It may cause gum irritation, tooth sensitivity, or enamel damage if used excessively.
Also, research shows that the safety of hydrogen peroxide use depends on the amount of concentration as more intense concentrations can cause more harm. Therefore, it is best to use low concentrations and to only use it for a short duration.
How long does it take for Hydrogen Peroxide to whiten teeth?
The amount of time it takes to whiten teeth with hydrogen peroxide may vary depending on the concentration used and the starting color of the teeth. Typically, results may be noticeable within a few days of use or up to a few weeks.
It is advisable not to use concentrated hydrogen peroxide for an extended period as it can cause damage to tooth enamel and gum irritation.
What level of Hydrogen Peroxide is safe for teeth whitening?
Dentists recommend using a lower concentration of hydrogen peroxide for teeth whitening. The allowable levels are set by regulatory agencies, with a maximum level of 6%.
Dentists often use concentrations of about 3% and in special cases recommend stronger concentrations for use in-office only.
What are the negatives of Hydrogen Peroxide on teeth?
Improper use or excessive exposure to hydrogen peroxide can cause damage to tooth enamel and gum irritation. In addition, some side effects of using hydrogen peroxide for teeth whitening may include temporary tooth sensitivity, gum irritation, and mouth infections.
