History of Teeth Whitening

Here is another interesting topic-the history of teeth whitening. Knowing that this is a process that has been used for quite a long time may give it a little bit more validity.

How it Began?

The process of teeth whitening became very popular starting in the 1800s. It may have possibly started earlier than this but this is the facts as stated by information published by the American Dental Association council.

This was a procedure primarily limited to the treatments that were provided by a professional dentist. However, the focus was more on the bleaching of teeth that had been discolored as a result of trauma.

From that time on until the 1980s, the process of dental bleaching became increasingly more cosmetic in purpose. However, it was still highly dentist-prescribed. It has not been until fairly recently (within the past 10 years or so) that many more at home whiteners and products entered the market.

Now it seems that the market is flooded with products that patients can use at home. Either that or one that a consumer can buy outright without a prescription.

Categories of Solutions

According to the ADA, teeth whitening products can be divided into four main categories. There are the solutions that are applied by a dentist only, then there are the prescription treatments than can be taken home.

As far as over the counter treatments, there are the types that are purchased over the counter at a pharmacy. Others are for sale just about anywhere, such as mall kiosks and even on cruise ships.

Types of Treatments

The list of teeth whitening treatments goes on and on. There are gels, rinses, gums, toothpastes, strips, and trays. There of course is also mouthwash and the old wise tale remedies (i.e. baking soda, lemon juice, vinegar, strawberries).

The safest ones are the type that have in them approximately 10 to 15% carbamide peroxide. Either that or 6% hydrogen peroxide. However, you can still apply a little bit more potent amounts with ease-usually.

You should start to worry when the product you by says it has more than about 22% carbamide peroxide in it. This is a little bit “up there” and you certain should never use at home treatments that are higher than 25% to 30% unless your dentist tells you so.

The main concern though is not that it will hurt your teeth. It actually burns or irritates your gums sometimes, or causes redness. It also could strip some of the enamel off your teeth so be very careful.