How Teeth Whitening Works

The Science Behind Your Smile

Would you love a whiter smile? When your teeth are strong and healthy with a pure-white sparkle, you look amazing and feel more confident. Teeth whitening products can help you achieve a dazzling smile – and there’s a unique science behind the way they work.

Take Your Teeth from Stained to Sparkling.

How does the teeth-whitening process work?

Over time, your teeth can become stained or discoloured. This happens when pigments from food and beverages attach themselves to the organic matter of your teeth.
The teeth-whitening process lifts stains from your teeth to make them appear whiter. There are two main processes: physical removal and chemical bleaching.

Physical Removal Vs. Chemical Bleaching

What do the processes involve and which is the best?

Physical removal targets stains on the surface of the teeth, removing them using abrasive action. Sodium bicarbonate is often used for this process.
Chemical bleaching is a more effective method, as it targets both surface stains and stains within the tooth enamel. Bleaching agents (such as hydrogen peroxide or PAP) penetrate the tooth enamel to oxidise (break down) the molecules that hold colour. Smaller molecules look lighter in colour, so the overall appearance of your smile is improved.

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Peroxide Vs. PAP

Which is the best for teeth whitening?

Peroxide and PAP both use oxidisation to whiten tooth stains. However, there’s a crucial difference between the two ingredients.

Peroxide releases free radicals during the teeth-whitening process. While free radicals are effective at reducing discolouration, they also negatively impact tooth enamel and gum tissue. Free radicals can cause sensitivity, gum irritation and the loss of minerals that keep teeth healthy (known as demineralisation). PAP, on the other hand, oxidises stains without releasing free radicals. The molecules are safely broken down, so your teeth and gums are protected against sensitivity and damage. PAP is scientifically proven to whiten teeth without harmful side effects.

PAP is Safe and Effective

So why don’t all teeth whitening products contain PAP?

You’ll find that dentists still use peroxide-based whitening treatments. This is because professional application can help reduce the risk of side effects. For home teeth whitening, however, PAP-based formulas are much safer and kinder to teeth.

Although PAP is a safe and effective ingredient, it does present challenges when it comes to product formulation. Maintaining the stability of PAP is difficult, so formulas can become less effective over time and have a shortened shelf life.

At smilerex®, We’ve Harnessed the Power of PAP

Discover our Intensive PAP formula that whitens and cares for your teeth

Backed by ten years of experience in the teeth whitening field, and a deep understanding of dental care, we’ve introduced the ultimate PAP formula. It sets a new standard for at-home teeth whitening, delivering professional results easily and safely. With supporting ingredients, potassium nitrate and hydroxyapatite, our formula strengthens and remineralises your teeth as it whitens. Boosted with menthol for that fresh-mouth feeling, smilerex® is your fast-pass to a whiter smile and a new-found confidence.