Do Whitening Pens Really Work?
Do-it-yourself whitening options are marketed everywhere, it seems, and the latest whitening product seen across social media, television commercials, and online ad platforms are whitening pens. “Removes years of stains,” the ads go on to say. So, how does that work? Is it true? Before we answer that question, let’s talk about stains – and what should be done before any whitening product is used.
Visit the Dentist Before You Whiten
The first real step into whitening your teeth is to have a dental checkup and cleaning. The cleaning will remove tartar deposits that have built up so the teeth are more receptive to the bleaching, since the presence of tartar will prevent the bleaching material from penetrating the teeth. An examination by a dentist is also imperative, as you will need to be checked for any issues that may need to be addressed before you bleach (such as decay and gum disease). Since whitening products only change the color of natural tooth structure, fillings and/or crowns (caps), will not change color.
Stains 101
Your original tooth color (even before staining comes into play) is dictated by your own biological makeup and everyone will lighten differently. That being said, there are two types of stains -intrinsicandextrinsic.Extrinsic stains occur on the outer layer of your enamel, with the most common culprits being foods and beverages such as coffee, tea, colas, dark berries (such as blueberries), and nicotine (whether it is smoked, chewed or vaped). Intrinsic stains are discolorations that lie deeper within the structure of your teeth, with the most common causes being medications (such as tetracycline), weakened enamel (which allows items that cause extrinsic stains to penetrate deeper), decay, and hereditary conditions.
What’s in That Pen?
The main ingredient for any type of bleaching is hydrogen peroxide. Different brands of pens contain varying strengths of hydrogen peroxide, but since over-the-counter whitening products are limited in the amount of hydrogen peroxide it can contain, the amount actual percentage in a whitening pen is quite small.
How is it Applied?
It is applied as a varnish. It is brushed on the teeth using the applicator, which then forms a sticky shell on your tooth. Teeth must be dry before application and you may not eat or drink with the varnish on. Talking, lip movement and salivary flow may cause the product to flake off the tooth surface, which can cause uneven whitening results. Since there is no barrier between the product and your lips and saliva (for example, a whitening tray), it may be challenging to keep the product from coming off your teeth prematurely.
Does it Work?
Although whitening pens certainly do help break up surface (extrinsic) stains, they aren’t strong enough for deeper (intrinsic) staining. In fact, some brands of whitening pens will specifically state that their product is best used in conjunction with a professional whitening system.
In Conclusion
If you’re looking for deeper, longer lasting results, seek out a professional whitening system that is provided by your dentist, who can recommend the correct product for you.
Questions? Please contact us directly by phone at (781) 942-2020, by e-mail at info@drkhull.com,or by navigating to theContactsection of our website.
*Photo is a licensed, stock photo. Person depicted in photo is not a patient of and is not associated with Kallen K. Hull, DMD PC*
