Teeth whitening gel: review of the best products and method of application

Operating principle

The secret to the effectiveness of gels lies in their composition.

The main active ingredients of most of these products are hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide .

The principle of operation is as follows: upon contact with the surface of tooth enamel, substances interact with air.

During the reaction, oxygen is released, which actively cleanses tooth enamel of plaque and other contaminants and penetrates its structure, eliminating age spots .

At the same time, the carbamide peroxide in the preparation acts more mildly than hydrogen peroxide.

Both active ingredients do not pose a threat to the structure of tooth enamel if used in reasonable doses and at large intervals.

With frequent use, such a substance thins the enamel, making it fragile and teeth vulnerable to damage.

Advantages

The latest developments by scientists have made it possible to create teeth whitening gels for home use, which can seriously compete with professional products.

Both types of products have a number of advantages that set them apart from other methods of whitening tooth enamel:

high efficiency ;
speed of the procedure;
relative safety ;
ease of use;
achieving a visible effect after the first use;
relatively low cost ;
protection from further influence of coloring substances that are present in food and drinks.

Other Colgate Whitening Products

Teeth whitening with Colgate becomes more effective if, in addition to it, you use other products from this line. This includes:

Colgate toothpaste Safe whitening.
Special brush 360 Optic White. It will help whiten your teeth in two ways: using whitening cups and polishing bristles.
Colget Rinse Safe whitening. Effectively removes plaque and is safe for enamel.

Disadvantages of the method

Need to know! Whitening enamel with gel is a safe procedure, but if the instructions for use are not followed, these products can cause deterioration in the condition of the teeth.

The active substances of the drug, with frequent use, cause thinning of the enamel, damage to its structure and increased tooth sensitivity.

When using such substances, you must carefully study the instructions and adhere to the rules of use.

It is strictly forbidden to use the product more often than the manufacturer recommends.

Flaws

Before using the teeth whitening gel, you must make sure that the teeth are healthy, there are no microdamages or microcracks, follow the instructions clearly and avoid contact with the gums to avoid burns to the mucous membrane.

This method of cleansing has disadvantages, the most common ones include the following disadvantages:

It is imperative to look at the concentration of active components. Sometimes, due to increased levels of active components, damage to the enamel structure occurs;
cannot be used if there are microcracks and various damage on the surface of the teeth; gels can accelerate the process of tooth decay;
if the gel accidentally gets on the gums, a burn or allergic reaction may occur;
When the gel gets into the esophagus, irritation of the mucous layer occurs, as well as poisoning.

Rules for choosing gels

The main criterion for choosing a gel should be its composition .

It
should not contain substances that can cause an allergic reaction .
You should also choose products recommended for home use - they contain lower concentrations of active ingredients.

Professional gels must be used according to a strictly defined technology, which only a specialist knows.

At home, they can do more harm than good.

Advantages and disadvantages

The undeniable advantages of using whitening gels are:

speed of results. Positive changes are noticeable after the first application; the entire course of treatment takes little time;
huge selection. The modern dental market offers a wide range. It is possible to choose a suitable product with the desired composition and concentration of active substances;
high efficiency of gels. Some manufacturers promise to lighten teeth up to 5 shades;
Possibility of carrying out at home without special devices. You can apply the product half an hour before going outside, for example, before an important date or meeting;
relatively low cost compared to a professional teeth enamel whitening procedure.

The disadvantages of the method include:

there is a possibility of enamel damage due to inappropriate concentrations of active substances or the presence of microdamages on the tooth surface;
accidental contact of the gel with the gum tissue provokes a burn or an allergic reaction;
the flow of gel into the pharynx area provokes irritation of the mucous membranes and damage to the esophagus.

Note! Compliance with safety rules reduces the risk of adverse reactions. Before use, be sure to carefully read the instructions for the whitening product.

How to use it correctly?

In the case of teeth whitening by a specialist, the procedure is carried out after examining the dentition.

If the teeth are intact, have no damage, cracks or hypersensitivity, preliminary mechanical cleaning is performed.

Only after such preparatory procedures does the doctor begin whitening with this product.

For safety reasons, the mucous membrane and gums are treated with a special solution, which forms a protective layer.

Note! The substance is applied to the surface of the teeth and left for 20 minutes, after which it is washed off.

The entire session takes about one hour, and, if necessary, is repeated no earlier than three months later.

The effect lasts for 5 years if the gel is treated with special radiation.

Gels may contain beneficial substances that strengthen teeth. You should not buy these products at the pharmacy yourself; you should follow your doctor’s recommendations.

At home, you can use special mouth guards and gel, which are selected by the dentist taking into account individual characteristics.

In this case, the product is applied to the trays. The structure is put on for a certain time during the day, after which it is removed, and the oral cavity is washed with water.

The frequency of procedures is prescribed by a specialist.

There is a category of drugs that are used at home and are applied using two methods:

directly onto the brushes while brushing your teeth;
with a special brush, which is included in the kit.

Teeth whitening gel: uses, types and side effects

If you want to know how to make your teeth whiter and how teeth whitening gels work, you are not alone. Many people are unhappy with the appearance of their yellowed or darkened teeth . Over-the-counter whitening gels can significantly improve the color of your teeth. With the guidance of your dentist, you can whiten your teeth safely and effectively at home.

How does teeth whitening gel work?

The fact that you are interested in the composition and mode of action of teeth whitening gel is quite natural. Such products contain mild teeth whitening substances and are completely safe. Most teeth whitening gels contain hydrogen peroxide and a number of other ingredients that increase the effectiveness of the gel and improve its taste.

Common Ingredients in Teeth Whitening Gels

Urea peroxide and hydrogen peroxide Many teeth whitening gels contain urea peroxide (urea), which is a source of hydrogen peroxide. The latter reacts with contaminants present on the enamel, changing their chemical structure and removing stains. As experts , hydrogen peroxide helps eliminate both superficial and deep discolorations.
Slow-release and fast-release teeth whitening gels For at-home teeth whitening, your dentist may be able to provide you with a slow-release, low-carbamide peroxide gel. At your first visit, your doctor will take impressions of your teeth to create special trays that you will regularly fill with whitening gel and place on your teeth. The fast-acting gels that dentists use to whiten teeth in the office contain much more hydrogen peroxide, up to 44% . Due to this, teeth whitening occurs faster, but more pronounced sensitivity may also occur.
Other Ingredients Many whitening gels contain desensitizing agents. Manufacturers often use potassium nitrate and amorphous calcium phosphate: both of these compounds are included in products to combat tooth sensitivity . One way or another, tooth sensitivity after whitening is temporary.

Who can have their teeth whitened?

Whitening gels effectively remove discolouration and lighten teeth, but not everyone can use them. Thus, dentists do not recommend teeth whitening for children and adolescents under 16 years of age. When using the gel to whiten your teeth yourself, you must strictly follow the manufacturer's instructions and comply with the age restrictions specified by him.

Additionally, you should consult your dentist before whitening your teeth. If there is a significant change in the color of the enamel, as well as the presence of fillings and crowns, self-whitening of teeth may not bring the desired results. Your dentist will advise you on the most effective and safe whitening method.

Recommendations for teeth whitening at home Before using teeth whitening gel, visit your dentist. He can make custom trays for you and tell you how to properly apply the gel. For example, before applying the gel, you must brush your teeth. Some gels should be used for several hours during the day, others at night. The required result is usually achieved in about two weeks. Never swallow the gel: carefully remove any remaining gel from your teeth and gums with a tissue, clean finger or soft-bristled toothbrush, then rinse your mouth thoroughly with water.

Side Effects of Teeth Whitening Gels Some patients are concerned about how safe teeth whitening products are. When used with a poorly fitting tray or improperly applied, whitening strips and hydrogen peroxide gels can irritate your gums.

Teeth whitening can also cause increased sensitivity, although both sensitivity and gum irritation will subside once whitening is complete. To avoid these side effects, follow your dentist's recommendations.

Teeth whitening with gel is an effective way to brighten your smile. Talk to your dentist to see if you need to whiten your teeth . To keep your teeth beautiful, floss daily and brush your teeth twice a day with whitening toothpaste. Don't forget to visit your dentist regularly - professional teeth cleaning is necessary to prevent discoloration. With a little effort, you can once again proudly show off your dazzling, snow-white smile!

Precautionary measures

Any medicinal product has instructions for use.

Violation of these rules and recommendations is fraught with side effects, which were already mentioned above.

Basic precautions are as follows:

Do not apply bleaching agents to damaged teeth ;
use is prohibited if the enamel is hypersensitive ;
postpone bleaching if you have inflammatory diseases of the oral cavity;
It is not recommended to violate the exposure time and frequency of sessions;
Direct contact of the product with the oral mucosa should be ;

Keep in mind! Following these simple precautions will help you avoid negative consequences from using whitening gels.

Some useful tips

In order to avoid side effects and other unpleasant problems when using bleaching products, you must carefully and thoroughly study the instructions for use. In addition, many dentists advise following the following recommendations when whitening teeth with special gels:

Before using whitening products, you should consult a dentist. You should not use these remedies just as you wish, as this can cause serious side effects and problems.
Attention! A highly qualified specialist can, upon examination, determine the general condition of the teeth, as well as identify the presence of various diseases and damage, and after that he will recommend effective ways to overcome this situation.
It is worth remembering that if an aggressive agent is applied to damaged tooth enamel, this can be fraught with serious complications - pain and rapid spread of carious lesions may occur;
If there is a strong yellowish tint on the surface of the teeth, then the first whitening treatment should be performed by a dentist in the clinic. If after this procedure the characteristic yellow color returns, then to maintain it, you can apply a whitening agent to the teeth from time to time.

A visit to the dentist is a mandatory procedure for those with a luxurious smile; even if you decide to lighten your teeth yourself, you need to make sure that they are healthy and that whitening will not harm them.

Popular means

Among the many products on the market, several leaders :

Global white is a Russian-made product. Available in pencil packaging and equipped with a brush. The active ingredient is hydrogen peroxide. The composition contains potassium nitrate, which prevents tooth sensitivity. The disinfectant - xylitol - inhibits bacteria and normalizes the pH environment. The advantage is the low price (350-450 rubles) and the practicality of the drug combined with high efficiency - the drug whitens by 3 tones.
ROCS - the main advantage of this product is its absolutely safe composition, which does not contain peroxides, dyes or abrasives. Available in a tube and used together with toothpaste, forming a transparent mineralized film on the surface of the teeth. On average, after 4-5 days of use, teeth become 4-5 shades lighter. The price of the medicine is 360-400 rubles.
Colgate Simply White - a product from a well-known manufacturer is offered in the form of a tube with a brush. The bleaching agent is hydrogen peroxide, contained in a concentration of 5.9%. The composition is enriched with components that strengthen tooth enamel. The main advantage is ease of use - the substance does not require drying and is quickly absorbed. The effect of use occurs after several uses; in total, the product is designed for a 14-day course. The result lasts about 6 months. Price – 2000-2500 rubles.
White light is a system for home whitening. It is produced in China and is a set of two gels for joint use and a mouth guard. The brightening agent is carbamide peroxide, which, when interacting with enamel, activates the release of oxygen. The advantages of the method are: speed - the procedure takes only 10 minutes, as well as the intensity of lightening. The course lasts 3-4 days, and the cost is 1400-1500 rubles.
Lumibrite is a teeth whitening system that is manufactured in the USA. It can make zebas whiter by as much as 5-10 shades, depending on the original color. Available in the form of a gel, which is equipped with gel trays to protect the gums. One package is designed for 3 days of use. Advantages: high efficiency and composition enriched with fluorine and calcium. Price – 1800-2000 rubles.
Smile4You – available in large volume packaging. The drug is enough for 150-200 procedures. To use, you will need mouth guards, which can be purchased separately. The composition differs in the concentration of hydrogen peroxide from 3% to 44%, which must be selected by the dentist. The lightening course is 14 days, and the exposure time is 5-10 minutes. The price is 2000-2500 rubles.
Opalescence are whitening gels produced by the American company Ultradent, based on carbamide peroxide. Presented in concentrations of the main component of 10%, 15%, 20%, 35%. The advantage is the viscous texture, which ensures good adhesion of the mouth guard to the enamel, a prolonged effect, and a high degree of oxidation up to 8 tones. Cost – 1000 rubles.

How to use

There is no specific principle for using these funds. Typically, manufacturers indicate several ways to use gels in the instructions. Gels are produced in different packages, so each type of product comes with different instructions. There are three ways to use whitening gels:

Use in the same way as normal teeth cleaning. This application process requires a soft bristle brush. Gel is applied to the bristles of the brush, then the surface of the teeth is carefully cleaned. However, in order to avoid damage to the enamel, it is necessary to choose the right brush; the bristles should be very soft; the patient may also incorrectly calculate the amount of the drug;
Combination with mouthguards. The trays used during this procedure look like strips. The strips are applied to the surface of the teeth, but they are first filled with whitening gel. The strips must be worn for quite a long time, from 30 minutes to 8 hours. Sometimes the mouthguards may not fit well, this can cause irritation of the oral mucosa, which ultimately causes a feeling of severe discomfort;
The third method can be done using a brush. This method is considered the most gentle, it provides a positive result. It is worth paying attention to the period of the procedure, which is indicated on the packaging of the product - the shorter it is, the better and higher quality the gel.

The latter method is most often used because it is much easier to perform, during it the risk of gel getting on the gums is reduced, and it provides a positive result almost after the first procedure. Mouthguards are used quite rarely; these products can only be used in heavily soiled teeth. Sometimes gels can be combined with pastes for cleaning teeth, but it is recommended to do this as rarely as possible, because during this method of use there is an increased risk of damage to the enamel structure. In addition, using this method is inconvenient to use a bleaching agent, and the wrong dosage can also be calculated.

Teeth whitener Colgate Simple White Knight is the most gentle method that allows you to achieve maximum effect within two weeks with a single use of the gel. It is applied with a brush, lightens the enamel without destroying it.

Contraindications

Note! The list of contraindications for such whitening products is quite small. It is prohibited to use gels:

during pregnancy and lactation;
in children under 16 years of age;
in case of diseases of the gums and oral cavity;
during dental treatment, as well as in the presence of damage;
if you are allergic to any of the components of the drug.

If your teeth have fillings, crowns or system , you need to make sure that the product is suitable for artificial materials.

Reviews

Below are customer reviews. In the comments below the article you can leave your personal feedback.

Nature did not initially endow teeth with whiteness, so we had to resort to various methods of whitening. The pastes did not give the desired effect, and the whitening at the dentist was unsuccessful. Colgate Simply White gel saved the situation. My teeth became much lighter and didn’t deteriorate at all. I used it according to the instructions and in addition bought the same night whitening gel. The result became noticeable literally after 3 days.
Maria, Penza, 30 years old

Bad habits and frequent coffee consumption led to my teeth turning yellow. I had to go to the dentist. The bleaching system was used after pre-cleaning and treatment. The results from the Opalescence gel are excellent. The teeth became not only white, but also more resistant to dyes.
Kirill, Kislovodsk, 28 years old

After serious changes in my personal life, I decided to start completely changing my appearance. Sports, cosmetic procedures and proper care transformed my body, but the yellowish tint of the enamel showed my age. After using Global white, my smile became snow-white and my appearance looked fresh. I looked much younger and healthier.
Natalya, St. Petersburg, 38 years old