With so many teeth whitening products that immediately cause sensitivity, burning, and bleeding, it’s no wonder many people are asking: is teeth whitening safe?

The conventional teeth whitening industry we know today has been dominated by peroxides for decades. The first peroxide-based whitening formulas were crafted back in 1960, and we feel that they haven’t been explored or questioned nearly enough in the last six decades. While these chemical whitening agents are known to get the job done, it’s no secret that they can cause some damage in the process.

So, we’re covering some of the reasons peroxides cause so much discomfort while they whiten. We’re also going to discuss some natural teeth whitening alternatives that are starting to steal the spotlight from old formulas full of peroxides and fluoride. These cutting-edge whitening alternatives fuse PAP, an organic acid known for its whitening capabilities, and hydroxyapatite, your newest remineralizing superhero ingredient.

Together, these two innovative ingredients work to whiten and brighten your smile without causing discomfort and long-term damage. In fact, they do the opposite by strengthening your teeth to nurture long term oral and overall health. So, without further ado, let’s dive into some ways you can make your whitening routine safer and gentler on your oral microbiome.

is teeth whitening safe?

Generally speaking, teeth whitening is safe, but there are potential risks. When using these products at home (especially conventional whitening products formulated with peroxides), it can be easy to misuse or overuse the product. We know it’s tempting to think that whitening more often might lead to an even brighter smile, but overuse can lead to some pretty unpleasant side effects.

When it comes to answering the question, “Is teeth whitening safe?,” we recommend listening to your mouth. It will tell you when whitening is doing more harm than good through increased sensitivity, gum irritation, bleeding, and more. If it hurts to simply bite down after your whitening session, it might not be too safe after all. No matter what, we recommend consulting with your dentist before you start a new teeth whitening routine!

the problem with peroxides

Now you might be wondering why some whitening products immediately cause sensitivity and irritation, while others don’t. This has a lot to do with the concentration of peroxides (hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide) in the product.

Peroxides are the main bleaching agent in conventional whitening products, and it’s no secret that they get the whitening job done. But at what cost? For years, peroxides have been known to cause complications such as sensitivity, enamel erosion, gum irritation, bleeding, sores, and beyond. There’s a reason peroxide-based whitening products come with thorough instructions: keep the product from touching your gums, don’t let it sit on your teeth for too long, don’t use it too often, do not swallow, etc.

To no surprise, many countries have placed restrictions and bans on peroxide-based products. The EU and Canada both have strict concentration limits, while Japan has completely banned hydrogen peroxide in cosmetics. If the product is paired with so many warnings and regulations around the world, is it truly safe? Don’t worry, we’re not saying you have to ditch teeth whitening altogether, but there is a gentler, natural alternative to peroxides: PAP teeth whitening.

our preferred method, natural teeth whitening

PAP teeth whitening is the more natural alternative to peroxide-based products. PAP (Phthalimidoperoxycaproic acid) is an organic acid that promotes bleaching, and it does so without releasing the same harmful atoms that peroxides do. These harmful atoms, aka free radicals, can cause damage to your mouth’s cells and tissues. If you move your tongue around your mouth, it’s easy to feel that there’s a lot of soft, cushy tissue all over. These cells and tissues are prone to irritation and inflammation, so we want to make sure we’re using products that are gentle and safe.

Peroxides are also known to wear down your enamel and cause irritation and inflammation, which is why they cause so much sensitivity even after one use. Unlike peroxides, PAP teeth whitening products are often fortified with hydroxyapatite, an amazing ingredient that already exists in your enamel and works to remineralize it from the inside out. With help from hydroxyapatite, PAP teeth whitening methods actually work to strengthen your enamel, not wear it down. This reduces the risk of sensitivity and nurtures your oral health in the long run! With PAP you don’t have to deal with painful sensitivity right after a whitening session, so you can proudly and comfortably show off your bright white smile!

how hydroxyapatite can help

In addition to PAP teeth whitening products that are formulated with hydroxyapatite, you can get a daily dose of hydroxyapatite with our sensitive + whitening toothpaste. It’s made with amazing ingredients that work to fight tooth decay, reverse enamel damage, nourish your gums, relieve sensitivity, freshen your breath, and whiten your teeth!

Gentle abrasives such as calcium carbonate and hydrated silica work to safely whiten and polish your teeth, while xylitol and baking soda work to kill bad bacteria and neutralize plaque-forming acids. Then, nano-hydroxyapatite particles bind to your enamel on a microscopic level, remineralizing damaged areas from the inside out to reduce decay and relieve sensitivity.

Sounds like a pretty incredible whitening and remineralizing dream team, right? Until we make a special announcement about some new natural teeth whitening products, we encourage you to stock up on hydroxyapatite toothpaste for your brightest, strongest smile yet!

buy now.