Back in the 1970s, orthodontists were seeing that some of their patients who were wearing braces had very poor oral hygiene and thus had periodontal (gum) issues—the gums were swollen and inflamed. To help with this condition, the orthodontists would apply low doses of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in its known capacity as a wound cleansing and healing agent.
When used for some time, as an unexpected consequence, the teeth would actually appear somewhat whiter. Oral surgeons, who were also using peroxide after surgery, also noticed a similar effect. Companies took note and developed products specifically for tooth whitening.
Hydrogen peroxide (HP) naturally occurs in the human body as it is an essential component in the immune system. This may be the reason that studies undertaken have never shown any adverse effects in HP use for whitening teeth in the human body. However, higher concentrations can readily burn the gingiva (gums), and these concentrations should be avoided. Oxygen is released within seconds of contact with enamel….