Teeth whitening systems destroy enamel

15 April 2009

Do-it-yourself teeth whitening systems can damage the enamel, new research has discovered.

A research team from Ohio State University tested five whitening, or bleaching, systems that are available from pharmacies and from dentists.

Although it is the toughest material in the human body, levels of enamel were damaged and reduced by all the systems tested. Enamel protects the tooth and helps us bite food properly.

Teeth bleaching systems contain either hydrogen peroxide or cabamide peroxide, which produce the whitening effect by bleaching the teeth.

Products tested included those from the Crest and Oral Rembrandt ranges.

(Source: Journal of Dentistry, 2009; 37: 185-90).

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