Teeth Whitening Explained

In order to select the best teeth whitening agent for your needs, it's crucial to understand the process behind teeth whitening. When whitening your teeth, you're using one of two types of bleach—either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. It's important to note that these bleaches differ from household bleach containing ammonia. If you examine the ingredients of over-the-counter tooth whitening products, you'll find either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. Both of these substances work by breaking down stains into smaller pieces, which reduces the concentration of color and ultimately brightens your teeth.

The primary difference between hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide lies in their stain-breaking capabilities and shelf-life. Hydrogen peroxide breaks down stains more rapidly compared to carbamide peroxide. On the other hand, carbamide peroxide contains hydrogen peroxide and offers a longer shelf-life. Both hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide are effective tooth whitening solutions.

So, what does that mean when choosing the best product for you?

If you desire a rapid color change, a whitening product containing hydrogen peroxide may be your preferred choice. Hydrogen peroxide releases the majority of its whitening power within 30-60 minutes, delivering quick results. However, if you have naturally sensitive teeth or are prone to habitual staining, a product with carbamide peroxide might be more suitable. Carbamide peroxide releases approximately 50% of its whitening power within the first two hours and remains active for an additional six hours, providing a gentler and longer-lasting whitening experience.

At Fostering Smiles, we tailor our approach by using a combination of peroxide-based products, specifically designed to meet your individual needs. This ensures the delivery of optimal results, leading to a longer-lasting and brighter smile.

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Updated June 23 2025