Bleaching (whitening) products contain an active ingredient called hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. Whitening activates the peroxides to release oxygen molecules that enter the enamel micro-fractures to break down stain pigmentation. This release of oxygen can occur over time or rapidly.
Custom take home whitening treatments stimulate the release of oxygen over a period of a few hours. Laser whitening, such as Zoom, causes the rapid release of oxygen within a few minutes. This is accomplished by using a high intensity light source. The main side effect of bleaching is temporary tooth sensitivity to cold. This is because the micro-fractures and your natural enamel pores are open during treatment. These micro-fractures and pores will re-mineralize over time. Special toothpastes can help reduce sensitivity by accelerating this re-mineralization process.
