Teeth whitening with hydrogen peroxide: A good idea?

If you're here, it's probably because you've tried every method of teeth whitening to no avail. You want to have bright white teeth to give a good image of yourself to the world around you. You also want to have good oral hygiene to avoid all kinds of oral diseases such as: gingivitis, periodontitis or loosening of the teeth. Don't look any further, hydrogen peroxide is the solution you need. This product from the dental cosmetics industry makes teeth whiter and brighter. In addition, it reduces stains caused by coffee, tobacco and tea. 

Here is a guide to why hydrogen peroxide is a good method of tooth whitening, but not the best in the long term. 

What is hydrogen peroxide?

The main characteristics of hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a colourless chemical solution that is naturally secreted by the human body. It has three main properties: antiseptic, disinfectant and bleaching. It is antiseptic because it helps to treat inflamed gums. It is disinfectant because it cleans all superficial wounds inside the oral cavity. In addition, it is also whitening as it removes whitish and yellowish stains from the teeth and prevents bacteria from forming on the gums and teeth. However, it is important to use a low concentration, i.e. ideally 2 or 3%. Above this concentration, it can become harmful and irritate the skin and eyes.

 
Its virtues in terms of tooth whitening

It captures the electrons of the pigmented molecules responsible for the staining of the teeth. It is a powerful oxidant because it restores the brightness and whiteness of teeth. In fact, it eliminates the bacteria that cause tooth discolouration. In the same sense, it also has lightening properties because its whitening action allows the teeth to gain several shades. Moreover, its effectiveness is directly linked to the relationship between contact and concentration. Indeed, the longer the application time of hydrogen peroxide, the lower the concentration used. In addition, it is especially effective in removing superficial stains on the teeth, such as those caused by excessive consumption of coffee, tea or tobacco.

The best place to buy hydrogen peroxide

In a pharmacy

The most recommended place to buy hydrogen peroxide is the pharmacy. Indeed, you can find hydrogen peroxide in different dilution values, i.e. 10, 20 or even 30 volumes. The only solution you can use to brush your teeth is the 10-volume solution. The solutions are particularly unsuitable. The 20 or 30 volume solutions are used exclusively as bleach or stain remover. They should not come into contact with the mouth as they may cause burns or irritation.

Here are two brands of hydrogen peroxide sold in pharmacies:

Cooper Hydrogen Peroxide

This is a mild antiseptic and haemostatic. Its price varies between €2.28 and €3.95 depending on the outlet. This medicine is available over the counter. You do not need a prescription to buy it. It consists of 3% hydrogen peroxide. It is particularly important to use it immediately after opening the package. This hydrogen peroxide should not be used in combination with any other antiseptic bleaching solution.

Mercurochrome Hydrogen Peroxide

This is a de-scaling oxygenated water. It is also a natural disinfectant. It prevents the development of bacteria. Its price varies between 1.99 € and 2.66 € depending on the point of sale. It is composed of water, phosphoric acid, hydrogen peroxide and sodium salicylate. It must be applied for between 10 and 20 minutes to obtain a result. It is a regulated health product that carries the CE mark. This indicates that the product complies with EU legislation.

Key usage tips to consider

The following is a list of the main tips for use:

• You should keep this product out of the reach of children
• You can use it with caution in children under 3 years old
• You should not use it if you have an allergy to hydrogen peroxide
• You should check whether you have any allergy to hydrogen peroxide or etidronic acid
• You must not swallow the product under any circumstances
• You should avoid contact with your eyes and rinse immediately if you get any
• You must not mix it with other products
• You must call a poison control centre or a doctor in case of illness, accidental ingestion or poisoning
• You should keep it away from combustible materials

Various methods of home use  

The first method: using hydrogen peroxide with baking soda

• Here is how you should proceed to carry out this first method: 
• Put a teaspoon of baking soda powder in the bottom of a cup
• Add a few drops of hydrogen peroxide
• Add a little lemon juice to your mixture
• Let the mixture sit for 2-3 minutes to form a foam
• Apply the resulting paste to your teeth with your toothbrush for a maximum of 5 minutes

This method is recommended by many dentists around the world. You can use it a maximum of two or three times a week to avoid damaging the enamel of your teeth.

The second method: Mouthwash with hydrogen peroxide

Here is how you should proceed to carry out this second method:

• Pour 1 cup of warm water inside a bottle
• Put 1 cup of hydrogen peroxide, otherwise known as 3% hydrogen peroxide.
• Close the bottle and shake it so that the ingredients can mix
• Pour your mouthwash into a glass before drinking it
• Use this mouthwash only twice a day for 30 seconds

You can use the Y-Brush toothbrush which simplifies brushing by allowing you to brush all sides simultaneously thanks to its filaments which have a good inclination. It therefore has the ability to remove plaque which makes teeth much duller and more yellow.

One of these two methods together with the use of the Y-Brush toothbrush is a good combination for good oral hygiene.

The various contraindications associated with this method of tooth whitening

Hydrogen peroxide bleaching is not recommended for :

• People with a history of dental surgery
• People with particular oral sensitivity
• People who have already had a cavity treatment or a filling
• The most fragile people: young people under 16 years old.
• Pregnant women

We hope that this guide will have helped you to understand in which circumstances you can use hydrogen peroxide to whiten your teeth. Indeed, hydrogen peroxide allows you to whiten your teeth thanks to its very fast whitening effect. However, using it in large doses and swallowing it can put your health at risk. The frequency of use of hydrogen peroxide varies according to your needs. However, it is advisable to do this tooth whitening once a month for 6 months. You can also use other natural mouthwashes or a medical mouthwash.