Whitening Toothpaste | Your Dentist Offers Advice

Dr. Jon Isaacson and Dr. Kelly O'Hara from Lincoln Familiy Dentistry in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Do Whitening Toothpaste and Mouthwash Really Work?

When it comes to whitening your smile, there are so many whitening toothpastes and mouthwashes to choose from that it can be pretty overwhelming. We strongly recommend professional level bleaching. But, we know that patients are always looking for quick fixes with toothpastes and mouthwashes. However, with our in-office professional teeth whitening procedure or our take-home kit, we can guarantee beautiful whitening results. We using the Opalescence whitening system, which has clinically proven results. But can whitening toothpaste and mouthwashes produce a great result, too?

The whitening gel that we use from Opalescence® is a peroxide-based bleach. Countless studies have shown that peroxide is an effective, long-lasting teeth whitening solution. This as it actually changes the molecular makeup of the stains within the teeth. The peroxide is able to penetrate the tooth and change the stain. It’s like a little chemistry project for your teeth!

Cons of toothpastes and mouthwashes for whitening

The problem with most over-the-counter whitening toothpaste and mouthwash products are that they do not have a high enough concentration of bleaching agent. Because of this, they can not effectively remove stains. Whitening pastes help keep your teeth looking bright due to the abrasive materials that remove surface stains. Although it is possible to get some whitening results with these products, they can only take you so far. These products tend to make your teeth and gums sensitive. Even natural remedies circling the internet like baking soda and lemon juice may appear to be effective. Some of these natural methods are actually dangerous for your teeth and can lead to weak enamel and higher rates of decay.

Another concern with the use of toothpastes (whether purchased or homemade like the above-mentioned home whitening remedy, specifically) is the abrasiveness. So, while moderate use of these products will probably be just fine, prolonged use of abrasive products can eventually cause damage to your enamel. Thus, leading to sensitive teeth.

Frequently Asked Questions about Whitening Toothpaste

family dentist near me Dr Kelly with patient

What is an excellent whitening toothpaste?

Any whitening toothpaste that contains a peroxide-based active ingredient has some bleaching potential. For those who have sensitive teeth, it is a good idea to use Sensodyne® whitening toothpaste. This toothpaste is safe to use regularly, and can help reduce sensitivity from professional whitening.

Is it safe to use whitening toothpaste every day?

Generally, most over-the-counter whitening toothpastes are safe for daily use. Unless the label states otherwise, it is safe to use on a daily basis. Patients who have very sensitive teeth should avoid whitening pastes that are not formulated with a desensitizing ingredient like potassium nitrate on a daily basis. Some of the bleaching agents in whitening toothpastes can increase tooth sensitivity with prolonged use.

Does charcoal toothpaste whiten teeth?

Charcoal is a popular ingredient marketed as a natural alternative to whitening toothpaste. Charcoal toothpaste has not been proven to be a safe or effective method of whitening teeth according to the ADA. Regularly using charcoal as a toothpaste can potentially make teeth more yellow due to the excessive abrasion of the enamel, revealing the darker dentin deeper into the tooth.

How often should you use whitening toothpaste?

Many patients can use toothpaste with whitening agents every day to help control plaque. In addition, it can also be used for a topical application of fluoride to strengthen the enamel as well as to remove surface stains from the teeth. Patients who have extremely sensitive teeth should avoid using toothpastes for whitening. Patients with sensitivity, however, may be able to alternate toothpastes. In this case, alternating whitening and sensitivity toothpastes, might offer good results.

Toothpastes and mouthwashes for whitening do contain a small amount of bleaching agent, but they mainly work to remove surface stains. Unfortunately, they are unable to penetrate deeper into the enamel to provide more dramatic whitening results. Our advice is to use a professional strength whitening system if you want noticeable results. If you simply want to keep your existing shade looking bright, whitening toothpaste is a good option. To learn more about in-office professional whitening or take-home whitening, please click here. At Lincoln Family Dentistry, we offer a variety of affordable dental services. Your smile is our priority.