When it comes to white teeth, rely on your dentist

[4 March 2009 - 08h17]

Today we’re focusing on risk-free methods of whitening your teeth.

If you’re interested in taking that route, go and speak to your dentist about it! He or she will be able to diagnose the reason for the stains on your teeth and will also be able to advise you on what steps to take. There are plenty of methods available, including brush-applied gels, tooth-whitening strips, tooth-whitening trays, etc.

With all of these methods, the whitening agent used is hydrogen peroxide. This product, based on hydrogen and oxygen is very commonly used in the paper and textile industries. And it’s hardly surprising to discover that it is all the more effective when used in large quantities. Yet it’s important not to exceed a certain concentration. The European Union’s Scientific Committee on Consumer Products (the SCCP) is very clear on this point. The use of toothpastes, mouthwashes and tooth-whitening products containing up to 0.1% hydrogen peroxide does not present any risk to consumer health.

However, the use of whitening products containing between 0.1% and 6% hydrogen peroxide can carry risks. And these risks increase along with the concentration of hydrogen peroxide and frequency of use. In fact, in 1999 a team of Canadian researchers showed that in animals this substance could encourage certain forms of cancer of the buccal cavity. The SCCP adds that above certain levels of exposure, effects on body weight, blood and certain organs have been identified. All of which are very good reasons for seeking professional advice …

Source : Union européenne, Comité scientifique des produits de consommation (CSPC), janvier 2009

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