What everybody ought to know about teeth whitening pens?
Teeth whitening pens are small pens with thin plastic tubes containing whitening gels. Carbamide peroxide or Hydrogen peroxide is used as this product’s whitening substance, but the formula varies for each brand. The product is designed to touch up challenging teeth stains and is used between the whitening process. This portable teeth-whitening apparatus is also known as a brush-on whitener.
The practice of using this over-the-counter whitening product is increasing gradually nowadays. Many patients interrogate us about the authenticity and effectiveness of this product. Hence our dentists and oral hygienists have shared the important things everyone should know before using teeth-whitening pens. Keep reading.
How effective are teeth whitening pens?
Remember that teeth whitening pens are over-the-counter products similar to teeth whitening strips and whitening toothpaste. It implies that the whitening pens do not eliminate stubborn stains.
For instance, whitening pens can whiten yellowish teeth to a certain extent and remove yellow stains, but they cannot remove grey or brownish spots in teeth. Likely, it is highly effective in lightening the stains and discolorations caused by dark foods like blueberries, tea, coffee, and others.
Similarly, you cannot whiten restorative appliances like dental bridges, crowns and implants with teeth whitening pens.
As discussed earlier, teeth whitening pens are apt to remove extrinsic stains on teeth.
How to use the teeth whitening pens?
To enjoy the benefits of teeth whitening pens, you should use them correctly. If you use them after brushing, they will be highly effective in using whitening pens. Follow the instructions given below to preserve the whiteness of your teeth using teeth whitening pens:
- Remove the teeth whitening pen’s cap.
- Twist the pen’s bottom until the whitening gel comes up on top.
- Apply the gen on your teeth surfaces.
- You should let the gel dry, so you don’t rinse or swish your mouth. Leave the whitening agent on your teeth for at least 10 minutes.
When the gel is applied, its peroxide will break down and oxidize the stain. It is followed by allowing oxygen to enter the teeth enamel and lift the stain away from enamel.
What are the Pros and Cons of teeth whitening pens?
Pros
- It is easy to use
- Provides quicker solution
- As the whitening pens have low doses of whitening agents, there are low changes of teeth sensitivity.
Cons
- It cannot lessen the concentration of stubborn stains.
- The whitening solutions are short-lived
- In certain circumstances, it makes the teeth look patchy (i.e.) whiten unevenly.
- Sometimes it causes gum irritation.
How often can we use teeth whitening pens?
According to dentists. Teeth whitening pens can be used twice a day. Meanwhile, it varies for each brand as each one has different chemicals and whitening formulas.
Hence it is essential to check the instructions mentioned in the whitening appliance. Otherwise, get a dental consultation to clear your doubts before purchasing a brush-on whitener.
Have queries on this affordable, over-the-counter teeth whitening appliance? Ask our dentists in Sri Lanka using the comment section below or contact us today here.
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