Is it true that a toothpaste can whiten teeth?

Who does not dream of having a toothpaste that leaves us with radiant teeth typical of Hollywood stars? For years, advertising (whatever it is) bombards us (and complexes us) with perfect, incredibly white dentures. The reality is that it is quite difficult to whiten teeth with a toothpaste, and much more if we opt for homemade solutions that can hurt the enamel.

So, aren't there toothpastes that can restore whiteness to your teeth? The first thing is to assume that the teeth are not completely white. There are people who have a color more tending to yellow and others bluish. Over the years and the different habits, the color varies until darkening them more than normal. That's when you go into crisis and want to show off the whitest teeth in Spain.

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What are the teeth whitening substances?

Substances that are present in toothpastes and that ensure tooth whitening are hydrogen peroxide ( hydrogen peroxide) and carbamide peroxide. Normally, toothpastes have between 0.1% and 6% hydrogen peroxide. It is not recommended to exceed this amount because burns can occur in the mouth and on the structure of the teeth. More is not always better.

Dentin is the deepest layer of the tooth which is what gives color to the teeth. So toothpastes only act on the enamel to remove surface stains, but they don't make them whiter. As we said before, the color of your teeth is given by genetics and by your diet (and unhealthy habits, such as smoking). Coffee, tea, red wine, or cola have powerful colors that can damage tooth enamel. Although, without a doubt, tobacco is the worst ally for your health.

It is recommended that, to whiten your teeth, you go to a dentist to evaluate your case and assure you of the effects that whitening will have on your teeth. It is very possible that you do not get a nuclear white, since the maximum is to lower 3-4 shades of color. If there are whitenings that promise you more, suspicious.

What is triclosan?

Some toothpastes contain triclosan, in addition to carbamide and hydrogen peroxide. This is a great antibacterial and fungicidal agent. In recent years, several investigations have been carried out to determine if it was safe for domestic use. Some multinationals decided to withdraw it due to carcinogenic risk and a supposed increase in resistance to antibiotics.

The European Union considers a maximum concentration of 0.3% triclosan in toothpastes and 0.2% in mouthwashes . This substance is widely used in soaps, gels and deodorants, but the OCU determines that it is better to reduce its use.

Is it better to buy toothpaste in pharmacy?

It seems that what they sell in pharmacies or parapharmacies is always better and of higher quality. It is true that in these places we find more specific products and with many studies carried out, but they may not be equally valid for the entire public. In supermarkets we find affordable, easy-to-access and basic options. Pharmacies have toothpastes that are just as valid, but we should note that each person needs a specific one.

In general, using one frequently and having healthy habits (good brushing and flossing) will help prevent tartar from accumulating and worsening the color of your teeth.

What is the opinion of activated carbon?

In social networks it has become fashionable to brush our teeth with a black toothpaste (or powders, failing that). Activated carbon is Amazon's flagship product, which ensures tooth whitening fairly quickly and at a very low price. It started out as a trend among influencers in Australia, but it has already gained weight worldwide and may be endangering your teeth.

Using this substance to restore whiteness to your teeth can cause damage to your enamel and gums. In fact, the OCU has also warned of the danger it poses to your oral health. To date, there is no scientific research that ensures that activated carbon whiten teeth or that it improves oral hygiene.

It is always better to clean your teeth with toothpaste, use a good brushing technique, use dental floss and go to the dentist once a year to perform a revision. In the event that you want to clarify the color of your teeth, go to a special center that evaluates your case and recommends a number of sessions accordingly.