Do Whitening Pens Really Work? (2024)

Do Whitening Pens Really Work?

Do-it-yourself whitening options are marketed everywhere, it seems, and the latest whitening product seen across social media, television commercials, and online ad platforms are whitening pens. “Removes years of stains,” the ads go on to say. So, how does that work? Is it true? Before we answer that question, let’s talk about stains – and what should be done before any whitening product is used.

Visit the Dentist Before You Whiten

The first real step into whitening your teeth is to have a dental checkup and cleaning. The cleaning will remove tartar deposits that have built up so the teeth are more receptive to the bleaching, since the presence of tartar will prevent the bleaching material from penetrating the teeth. An examination by a dentist is also imperative, as you will need to be checked for any issues that may need to be addressed before you bleach (such as decay and gum disease). Since whitening products only change the color of natural tooth structure, fillings and/or crowns (caps), will not change color.

Stains 101

Your original tooth color (even before staining comes into play) is dictated by your own biological makeup and everyone will lighten differently. That being said, there are two types of stains -intrinsicandextrinsic.Extrinsic stains occur on the outer layer of your enamel, with the most common culprits being foods and beverages such as coffee, tea, colas, dark berries (such as blueberries), and nicotine (whether it is smoked, chewed or vaped). Intrinsic stains are discolorations that lie deeper within the structure of your teeth, with the most common causes being medications (such as tetracycline), weakened enamel (which allows items that cause extrinsic stains to penetrate deeper), decay, and hereditary conditions.

What’s in That Pen?

The main ingredient for any type of bleaching is hydrogen peroxide. Different brands of pens contain varying strengths of hydrogen peroxide, but since over-the-counter whitening products are limited in the amount of hydrogen peroxide it can contain, the amount actual percentage in a whitening pen is quite small.

How is it Applied?

It is applied as a varnish. It is brushed on the teeth using the applicator, which then forms a sticky shell on your tooth. Teeth must be dry before application and you may not eat or drink with the varnish on. Talking, lip movement and salivary flow may cause the product to flake off the tooth surface, which can cause uneven whitening results. Since there is no barrier between the product and your lips and saliva (for example, a whitening tray), it may be challenging to keep the product from coming off your teeth prematurely.

Does it Work?

Although whitening pens certainly do help break up surface (extrinsic) stains, they aren’t strong enough for deeper (intrinsic) staining. In fact, some brands of whitening pens will specifically state that their product is best used in conjunction with a professional whitening system.

In Conclusion

If you’re looking for deeper, longer lasting results, seek out a professional whitening system that is provided by your dentist, who can recommend the correct product for you.

Questions? Please contact us directly by phone at (781) 942-2020, by e-mail at info@drkhull.com,or by navigating to theContactsection of our website.

*Photo is a licensed, stock photo. Person depicted in photo is not a patient of and is not associated with Kallen K. Hull, DMD PC*

Do Whitening Pens Really Work? (2024)

FAQs

Do Whitening Pens Really Work? ›

Teeth whitening pens work the same way as other whitening products, but they use a serum to apply whitening ingredients to your teeth. Most teeth whitening pens use a peroxide formulation—either hydrogen or carbamide—to break down stains.

Do teeth whitening pens actually work? ›

Teeth whitening pens work the same way as other whitening products, but they use a serum to apply whitening ingredients to your teeth. Most teeth whitening pens use a peroxide formulation—either hydrogen or carbamide—to break down stains.

How fast do whitening pens work? ›

Teeth-whitening pens appeal to a lot of people because they can be carried easily and inconspicuously in a purse or wallet. It takes only a few seconds to use them, and only about 15-30 minutes for them to do their work.

How many times a week should I use a whitening pen? ›

Frequency of Application

Teeth whitening pens tend to work best when they are used once a day for at least a week, but generally longer than a week.

Do zoom whitening pens work? ›

Tooth sensitivity happens when the peroxide present in the whitening gel gets through the enamel and comes in contact with nerves inside the tooth. However, the sensitivity is usually temporary and the Zoom Pens can certainly be an inexpensive and efficient alternative to professional whitening.

What do dentists say about teeth whitening pens? ›

No, whitening pens don't make your teeth whiter for good. The effects of whitening pens are temporary, so you'll need to use them often to keep your teeth at the level of whiteness you want.

Does baking soda really whiten teeth? ›

Studies published in The Journal of the American Dental Association showed that baking soda is an effective stain remover and whitening ingredient for oral care.

How do the Kardashians whiten their teeth? ›

But the Kardashians' go-to teeth whitening product? The HiSmile Teeth Whitening Kit. Full disclosure: the Kardashian clan have the best teeth already, and were no doubt paid to promote the HiSmile products on their Instagram accounts, but even so.

Do you rinse off teeth whitening pen? ›

Finally, don't rinse. The product needs to stay on your teeth to work.

Do whitening strips work better than whitening pens? ›

Whitening strips can lighten the teeth by 5-7 shades, whereas whitening pens can only brighten them by 2-3 shades. Both strips and pens are easy to use and compatible with LED devices, however, pens can be more convenient as each tooth can be easily covered.

What is the best tooth whitening product? ›

The Best Teeth Whitening Kits, According to Dentists
  • OpalescenceGo Prefilled Teeth Whitening Trays, Set of 10. ...
  • Burst Prefilled Whitening Trays, Set of 3. ...
  • PhilipsZoom NiteWhite Kit, Set of 3. ...
  • Dr. ...
  • Colgate Optic White ComfortFit Teeth Whitening Kit. ...
  • Auraglow Teeth Whitening Kit. ...
  • Crest3D Whitestrips, Pack of 22.
Sep 20, 2023

Is Zoom whitening better than bleaching? ›

Zoom offers several benefits over other methods such as laser teeth whitening or bleaching. The process is quick, unlike bleaching trays. Zoom teeth whitening also does not have a risk of nerve damage as laser whitening does.

Do your teeth get whiter after Zoom whitening? ›

Everyone's teeth respond differently to the teeth whitening products. Some people respond very well and teeth can get up to 3-4 shades lighter after just 5-7days of bleaching or up to 5 shades whiter with one ZOOM in office treatment.

Can yellow teeth become white? ›

Yellow teeth can regain whiteness through various methods, including good oral hygiene, professional dental cleanings, and teeth-whitening treatments. Stains from coffee, tea, or tobacco can be removed with adequate oral care, while professional procedures like bleaching or laser treatments offer quicker results.

Do whitening strips or pens work better? ›

Whitening strips can lighten the teeth by 5-7 shades, whereas whitening pens can only brighten them by 2-3 shades. Both strips and pens are easy to use and compatible with LED devices, however, pens can be more convenient as each tooth can be easily covered.

What is the best method to whiten teeth? ›

In-office bleaching provides the quickest way to whiten teeth. With in-office bleaching, the whitening product is applied directly to the teeth. These products can be used in combination with heat, a special light, or a laser. Results are seen in only one, 30- to 60-minute treatment.

Do teeth whitening pens work on dead teeth? ›

It is possible to whiten a dead tooth using in-office or at-home teeth whitening treatments. The key is to go about this procedure in a specific way to encourage a more natural appearance to the end result.

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