Carbamide Peroxide Teeth Whitening

The carbamide peroxide teeth whitening process is one of many methods that people may choose to whiten their teeth and regain that winning smile of their youth. People have heard of bleaching and baking soda, and may initially be put off by something that sounds as complex as carbamide peroxide teeth whitening, but really, the process itself is quick and simple, and very popular.

Carbamide peroxide teeth whitening does not work much differently from teeth whitening that uses hydrogen peroxide. The only real difference is the active ingredient: carbamide peroxide versus hydrogen peroxide. Both are oxidizing agents that can penetrate the enamel of a tooth and remove the stains beneath it. If a carbamide peroxide teeth whitening treatment is used often and long enough, the dentin layer of a tooth that lies beneath the enamel will also eventually whiten.

The application of carbamide peroxide teeth whitening gels is about the same as a hydrogen peroxide based teeth whitening product, mainly because carbamide peroxide teeth whitening systems are made up of at least 35% hydrogen peroxide. The gel is applied to a tray or strip that is then applied to the teeth. The main components in determining the change of shade is the total length of treatments (which includes single and continued applications) and the strength of the product. While lower concentration carbamide peroxide teeth whitening gels take longer to bleach teeth to a desired color, a lower concentration will also reduce the risks of chemical burns and other problems. In fact, low concentrations of carbamide peroxide are actually used to treat mouth sores, such as ulcers and canker sores.

Most carbamide peroxide teeth whitening systems can be used at home, which make them less expensive and more convenient than professional systems…if you are confident enough to perform the application yourself. Often, the gel is applied to tray called a night guard that is inserted into the mouth before bedtime, allowing the compound to do its work as you sleep. This is mainly done with low level concentrations, since it will require less monitoring.

The percent of the active ingredient in carbamide peroxide teeth whitening gels also affects the price. A single treatment of a 35% solution may cost anywhere from $10 to $40 and it may require as many as twenty treatments to reduce staining to the desired level. Similarly, a solution that is only 22% may cost between $8 and $30. This type of carbamide peroxide teeth whitening gel usually comes with a guarantee to avoid irritation, since the concentration of active ingredients is so low.

Carbamide peroxide teeth whitening may be a great at-home choice for teeth bleaching. To err on the side of caution, many first time users purchase the lower level gels to determine their sensitivity to the active ingredient. Lower level gels are also ideal for maintenance, since the effects of bleaching are not permanent. At any rate, carbamide peroxide teeth whitening products are usually economical and convenient, as well as flexible. Have them professionally applied or do it yourself.