A bright, white smile is something many people desire, and with so many teeth whitening products blossoming on the market, it can be difficult to determine which ones truly work.
One of the latest trends in oral care is purple toothpaste, also known as purple whitening toothpaste. But does purple toothpaste really help whiten teeth? And can it replace professional whitening treatments?
Let’s explore what this product does and whether it’s an effective option for achieving a brighter smile.
Understanding Purple Toothpaste and How It Works
As many people have mentioned, purple toothpaste is a type of colour-correcting toothpaste designed to neutralise yellow tones in the teeth. You might have seen ads online or on TV promising that this colourful toothpaste can give you a whiter smile.
The idea behind purple whitening toothpaste is based on something called colour theory, where purple counteracts yellow, thus creating an instant brightening effect. This concept is similar to how purple shampoos are used to tone blonde hair and reduce brassiness.
Now, how does purple toothpaste work on the teeth?
Instead of bleaching the teeth like traditional whitening treatments, purple toothpaste temporarily masks yellow tones by applying a thin layer of violet pigments. When used regularly, it can make teeth appear whiter.
However, it does not effectively remove stains or alter the natural shade of the enamel.
Does Purple Toothpaste Whiten Teeth Permanently?
The key question many people ask is: does purple toothpaste whiten teeth in a lasting way?
Unfortunately, these trending products over purple toothpaste are just mere hype and cannot provide teeth whitening.
In short, no.
Purple toothpaste does not contain strong whitening agents such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which are found in professional teeth whitening treatments. These are the main ingredients that you need to effectively whiten your teeth.
What it does is just provide a temporary brightening effect that fades over time. For those looking for long-term whitening results, professional in-chair whitening treatments or teeth whitening strips may be more effective.
How Does Purple Toothpaste Compare to Professional Whitening?
Professional teeth whitening treatments, such as in-clinic bleaching or take-home whitening kits prescribed by a dentist, use active ingredients that penetrate the enamel to break down stains. These ingredients are declared safe to use in minimal dosages to effectively target discolouration of the teeth. Research shows that 10% of carbamide peroxide is safe to use for at-home teeth whitening kits. Aside from that, these treatments also offer noticeable and long-lasting results, making them the best choice for patients with deep stains or severe discolouration.
In contrast, purple toothpaste provides only surface-level brightening. Whilst it can enhance the appearance of teeth between professional treatments, it does not replace the need for a proper whitening regimen.
So, if you’re looking to have your teeth whitened and enjoy it longer, choosing in-clinic bleaching or take-home whitening kits could be the best option for what you’re looking for.
Whilst we already know how effective purple toothpaste is, is it still safe to use it for the teeth?
Yes, purple-whitening toothpaste is still generally safe for daily use. Since it does not contain harsh bleaching agents, it is less likely to cause tooth sensitivity or enamel erosion. However, it is always best to check with your dentist before using any whitening products, especially if you have sensitive teeth or existing dental concerns.
Tips for Maintaining a Whiter Smile
Regardless of whether you use purple toothpaste or professional whitening treatments, maintaining good oral hygiene is key to keeping your teeth bright. Here are some effective tips:
- Brush and Floss Daily: Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss once a day to remove plaque and prevent staining.
- Avoid Staining Foods and Drinks: Coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-coloured berries can stain teeth over time. If you consume these, rinse your mouth with water afterwards.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Regular dental check-ups and cleanings help remove surface stains and maintain oral health.
- Use a Straw for Dark Beverages: Drinking through a straw reduces direct contact between staining liquids and your teeth.
- Consider Professional Whitening Treatments: If you want noticeable and long-lasting results, speak with your dentist about professional whitening options.
Is Purple Toothpaste Worth It?
Purple toothpaste can be a useful tool for temporarily brightening teeth, but it does not provide permanent whitening results. If you are looking for a way to maintain a whiter smile between professional treatments or reduce yellow tones, purple whitening toothpaste can be a helpful addition to your oral care routine.
However, for those seeking significant and long-lasting teeth whitening, professional dental treatments remain the best option.
If you have questions about teeth whitening or want to explore professional options, don’t hesitate to ask our professional dentists at Bellevue Hill Dental. Our team is equipped with the skills, experience, and latest equipment to give you the best whitening treatment in or around Bellevue Hill, NSW.
For a consultation, you can book your appointment online or call us at (02) 9389 4748 to get the whitening treatment you deserve.
