Just like some forms of dental braces started with the ancient Egyptians, so were some forms of teeth whitening. During the time of the Egyptians, wine vinegar and ground up stone were used to remove stains and whiten teeth. They used tree branches to apply the solution. In ancient times, the whiter your teeth were, the wealthier you appeared to outsiders. Ancient Romans also whitened their teeth, but they used urine. The ammonia in the urine bleached the teeth. They eventually realized this was toxic, so they discontinued use. Both of these practices not only whitened teeth but also ended up damaging the teeth and making it necessary to remove them.
Before it was universally realized that dental enamel can be bleached, many people wrongly suspected it was a layer of grime that turned their teeth yellow. This resulted in metal files being used on the enamel. This obviously led to poor dental health and decay because protective enamel was being ground down. It was also very painful. Before modern times, if a tooth became infected or decayed, it was pulled instead of repaired. So, attempting to whiten teeth often led to the eventual demise of the teeth.
In the 1980's, it was accidentally discovered that hydrogen peroxide whitened teeth. Originally, hydrogen peroxide was used as an oral antiseptic for gums. Dentists noticed that the peroxide also whitened the teeth when a gel was created that held the hydrogen peroxide on for a longer period. After this, scientists and dentists have continued to develop the perfect teeth whitening solution that includes some form of peroxide. Today's teeth whitening does not damage teeth when used appropriately.
Now you can receive teeth whitening from many methods. You can buy whitening strips, rinses, and toothpaste over the counter. These options are incredibly affordable, but they are also not nearly as effective as professional teeth whitening. You can visit a dentist for teeth whitening that creates better and faster results. Most dentist offices offer at-home professional teeth whitening and in-office professional teeth whitening. Depending on your needs, budget, and how much extra time your schedule allots you, you can request either one. To have the most successful teeth whitening treatment, you should visit our office first for a thorough cleaning and stain evaluation. There are different types of dental staining that require different forms of teeth whitening. Depending on what your needs are, we can provide you with an appropriate teeth whitening technique.
To learn more about the history of teeth whitening and the best options now available today, visit our office. We can give you a brighter smile and whiter teeth that last.
