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Do Teeth Whitening Toothpastes Really Work?

by Tammy Davenport
for About.com

Updated: April 3, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Question: Do Teeth Whitening Toothpastes Really Work?

Answer:

Teeth whitening toothpastes seem to be popping up everywhere and you've got to wonder if they really work.

Whitening toothpastes, like all other toothpastes, contain mild abrasives to remove surface stains. Teeth whitening toothpastes may have additional polishing agents and special chemicals that are more effective against stains than regular toothpastes. While whitening toothpastes can make your teeth appear a little lighter, by getting rid of stains, they do not actually bleach your teeth.

Teeth whitening toothpastes are ideal for people who smoke, drink coffee and tea and eat certain foods that can stain your teeth. Teeth whitening toothpastes are also good to use after you have undergone a teeth whitening procedure to keep surface stains from building up on your teeth.

If you decide to use a teeth whitening toothpaste, be sure that it contains fluoride for extra protection against tooth decay.

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