What other ingredients are used in teeth whitening products?

Along with hydrogen peroxide, the other most common ingredient found in teeth whitening kits is carbamide peroxide. Carbamide peroxide (CP) contains hydrogen peroxide at a ratio of 1:3. For example, a product with 30% carbamide peroxide has about 10% hydrogen peroxide. Carbamide peroxide breaks down over a longer period of time and offers a controlled peroxide release for long-lasting results. Hydrogen peroxide in its raw form acts quickly upon contact with the teeth.

Other common ingredients found in whitening treatments include potassium nitrate & fluoride. Potassium nitrate helps relieve sensitivity fast and usually has an effect that lasts 24 hours. It works by travelling through the enamel and dentine to the pulp chamber of the tooth to calm the nerves. Fluoride is used to provide lasting relief from sensitivity by increasing the hardness of the enamel without interfering with the whitening results.

How long does teeth whitening take to work?

The amount of time it takes for the patient’s teeth to whiten is dependent on the existing state of their teeth, the product type and ingredients, and when and for how long the patient is using the product. In general, an effective whitening product should begin to produce visible results within a few days. How much whiter the teeth get will vary from person to person but can be anywhere between six and 12 shades. In contrast, over the counter and DIY home whitening products can take at least a month before any improvements are visible.