Hydrogen Peroxide Teeth Whitening?
by Jordan
I have heard that rinsing with hydrogen peroxide helps to whiten teeth. Not only that, but that it can also help improve overall oral health if you rinse with it and keep your toothbrush clean if you clean with it every day. My question is- Does this really work/help? And if so, what ratio of peroxide to water should be used for rinsing your mouth and what for cleaning your toothbrush? Thanks! Hi Jordan, I don't think the 3% hydrogen peroxide that you rinse with is strong enough, or stays on your teeth long enough to whiten them. Teeth whitening products work because they are in contact with your teeth for a few minutes to an hour. Stronger teeth whitening products--like what is used for professional teeth whitening--work fastest, but are way too strong to come in contact with your gums, lips, or tongue. It is carefully applied to your teeth and everything else is protected. Over the counter whitening strips are not as strong but can still cause gum irritation and have to be used with care. 3% hydrogen peroxide is safe and recommended by some dentists to keep your gums healthy. I prefer Listerine, but if you like it, use it in moderation (not every day) It can irritate your gums if you use it too much. If you like to use it everyday, dilute with half water and half 3% hydrogen peroxide. For cleaning your toothbrush? Never heard of that....but it wouldn't hurt:) You could just pour some over your toothbrush without diluting it, then rinse with water. ~Shelly~ |
