Finding the Best Teeth Whitening Toothpaste
A bright, white smile radiates confidence and beauty. Everyone desires pearly whites that look their best. While professional whitening treatments prove effective, they come with a bigger price tag. Teeth whitening toothpastes offer an affordable alternative. Using them gradually lifts stains for a whiter grin.
How Teeth Whitening Toothpastes Work
All toothpastes help remove surface stains through gentle polishing and abrasion. However, whitening varieties take this a step further. They contain special added ingredients that penetrate to break down deeper, set-in stains.
Active whitening agents include hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide. These peroxide compounds contain bleaching properties that lift intrinsic tooth discoloration from the inside out.
Many whitening toothpastes also utilize mild chemical abrasives like silica. Scrubbing with these slightly coarse agents helps buff away exterior staining from things like coffee, tea or smoking.
When used as part of a regular brushing routine, these toothpastes produce gradual yet noticeable whitening results. Some people see brighter smiles within just a few weeks of consistent use.
The Role of the Abrasive Level
One key factor determining a whitening toothpaste’s efficacy involves its relative dentin abrasivity (RDA) level. This measurement indicates how abrasive or harsh the polishing agents prove.
Toothpastes with RDA values under 100 rank as relatively gentle and non-abrasive. While safe for enamel, very low abrasion may hinder stain removal power.
Most whitening toothpastes hover in the 100-200 RDA range. This gives them more effective polishing action to lift stains off tooth surfaces. However, it carries potential to cause excess enamel wear if used too vigorously.
Generally, whitening varieties work best in a moderate 120-180 range. This balances stain-fighting capabilities with lower risk of tooth sensitivity or damage from over-abrasion.
Peroxide Concentration Levels
Most teeth whitening toothpastes rely on low concentrations of peroxide compounds as their primary whitening agents. These gradually break apart discoloration molecules.
Products using hydrogen peroxide usually contain around 1-5% solutions. Concentrations much higher potentially irritate gum tissue if used long-term.
Carbamide peroxide offers a milder, slower-acting option. Most whitening toothpaste formulas utilize around 10-22% concentrations of these active ingredients.
While both effectively whiten over time, carbamide peroxide produces less sensitivity for many people compared to hydrogen peroxide. Higher-concentrate hydrogen peroxide products may carry more potential for irritation.
Additionally, some products use calcium peroxide instead of the other compounds. These provide more gradual whitening effects as the calcium slowly releases hydrogen peroxide over time.
Top Whitening Toothpaste Ingredients
Beyond the core whitening actives, many toothpastes contain additional stain-fighting ingredients. They help boost efficacy while providing complementary oral care benefits.
Silica remains the most commonly used gentle abrasive for polishing. It scrubs away exterior staining without causing excessive enamel wear like harsher alternatives.
Some pastes also utilize chemical agents like pyrophosphates to help prevent new stain buildup over time. These bind to tannins and prevent them from accumulating on teeth after you brush.
Many premium pastes now incorporate ingredients like activated charcoal too. This porous substance grips and lifts away stubborn stains effectively through adsorption properties.
Fluoride additions also allow whitening toothpastes to strengthen enamel while whitening. This helps prevent cavities and sensitivity caused by overexposure to whitening ingredients.
Choosing the Right Whitening Toothpaste
With so many whitening toothpaste options, finding the ideal product requires some research. Individuals must consider their unique dental needs and sensitivity levels.
Those with significant existing staining may want to consider a higher-concentration peroxide product. The more active whitening agents it contains, the faster you’ll see results.
However, if you have sensitive teeth, look for toothpastes labeled “enamel-safe” or “low abrasion.” These ensure minimal potential for discomfort during the whitening process.
For convenience, many prefer toothpastes featuring whitening and breath-freshening capabilities. Formulas containing ingredients like zinc compounds help fight odor while whitening.
No matter which you select, using proper brushing technique remains crucial. Avoid excessive scrubbing – this can cause gum irritation even with low-abrasion products.
Top Whitening Toothpaste Brand Options
Numerous leading brands now offer effective teeth whitening toothpaste varieties. These consistently top dentists’ recommendations and consumer satisfaction ratings.
Crest markets several popular options like 3D White Radiant Mint and Glamorous White. Some even contain stain-dissolving hydrogen peroxide for faster whitening action.
Many prefer toothpastes from Colgate like Optic White and Simply White. Their formulas blend mild abrasives with safe enamel strengtheners like fluoride and potassium nitrate.
Tom’s of Maine offers more natural whitening products, several containing naturally-sourced silicas. Meanwhile, Arm & Hammer utilizes baking soda for stain removal in some pastes.
Rembrandt and Plus White represent two clinical-strength options requiring less brushing time. Their highly-concentrated formulas lift stains more rapidly than standard pastes.
Sensodyne also formulates effective whitening toothpastes for users with sensitive teeth. Their products whiten gently using ingredients like potassium nitrate to block discomfort.
Getting the Best Results
Even with an excellent whitening toothpaste, getting visibly whiter results requires commitment. Experts recommend brushing twice daily for two minutes using proper techniques.
Applying in a circular or vertical motion helps lift more stains than basic back-and-forth brushing. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush also proves ideal for whitening.
Pairing the paste with occasional whitening rinses may accelerate the brightening process too. Some rinse formulas penetrate to further break down deeper stain particles.
Individuals who follow their whitening regimen diligently generally see visible shade improvements within 4-6 weeks. Those with significant staining may need up to 12 weeks to notice maximum results.
Additionally, maintaining good oral hygiene keeps stain accumulation at bay long-term. Routine dental cleanings help remove built-up debris that can counteract whitening efforts.
Natural Whitening Toothpaste Alternatives
For those seeking more natural ingredients, activated charcoal powder provides an effective whitening solution. When mixed into a paste, charcoal’s adsorbent properties pull stains off enamel surfaces.
Baking soda serves as another natural teeth brightener when brushed directly onto teeth. Its gentle abrasive properties scrub away stain particles without scratching enamel.
Some even make homemade whitening pastes by mixing coconut oil with baking soda. The coconut oil helps gently dissolve and lift stains and discoloration.
Be aware that natural home remedies like these take consistent, long-term use before optimal whitening occurs. And some stains may prove too stubborn for simple methods to tackle fully.
Safety Considerations
While teeth whitening toothpastes are relatively safe for most people, some caution should still be taken. Extended use of abrasive products raises risks of enamel wear over time.
Those with sensitive teeth should stick to low-abrasion, desensitizing varieties to prevent pain and irritation. Using a whitening paste too vigorously also increases gum tenderness likelihood.
Pastes containing higher concentrations of hydrogen peroxide may not be suitable for individuals with existing dental conditions or restorations either. Users should always consult their dentists first.
Overall, teeth whitening toothpastes represent an affordable smile brightening option for many. With the right techniques, ingredients, and consistency, they can lift stains safely and effectively, revealing a whiter grin.