Carbamide peroxide whitening gel

Introduction

The appearance and the milky white color of the tooth enamel gradually get compromised over time. The teeth slowly become yellow, or even brown in some cases. The discoloration occurs because the mineral structure of teeth changes as the time passes. One may restore the brightness and the natural white color of the teeth by using some of the bleaching agents. There are numerous different bleaching methods and agents available on the market, and carbamide peroxide is one of the most commonly used. One should always be well informed about the effectiveness and precautions before using carbamide peroxide as a teeth bleaching agent.

What is Carbamide Peroxide?

Carbamide peroxide is a very strong oxidizing agent, and it is also sometimes referred to as percarbamide, urea peroxide or urea hydrogen peroxide. It forms when urea and hydrogen peroxide react between one another. Carbamide peroxide is a white crystalline and its chemical formula is CH6N2O3. One of its main features that it releases oxygen once it gets in contact with water. Excessive exposure to carbamide peroxide commonly causes burns and corrosion. It irritates the skin, the eyes and all the elements of the human respiratory tract. When used in low concentrations it may come in very handy when it comes to whitening the teeth. For that purpose, it needs to be mixed with hydrogen peroxide. The cosmetic dentistry has used it safely for many decades. Its concentration is usually no more than 35 percent. It may also be used for the treatment of ulcers and removal of ear wax.

How does Carbamide Peroxide Whitening Gel Work?

Carbamide peroxide is very efficient when it comes to whitening the teeth and the results it provides are usually long lasting. Tooth enamel has a crystal structure which contains porosities that get penetrated by carbamide peroxide. The whitening gel performs an oxidation of the interprismatic stain deposits. Since enamel is partially translucent the oxidized underlying layer of dentin shows the effects of the whitening gel. Lifestyle of a person usually determines the longevity of the bleaching effects provided by carbamide peroxide. Frequent consumption of darker liquids such as coffee, black tea and similar beverages may decrease the overall effects provided by the whitening agent.

How is Carbamide Peroxide Whitening Gel Applied?

Carbamide peroxide can be purchased in most medical stores or online. It needs to be applied to the teeth by using a thin plastic tray. One may also try out some of the custom made whitening trays. Side effects may include irritation of the gums and tooth sensitivity in some cases.