Carbamide peroxide is a chemical compound commonly utilized across various personal care and medical applications. It is a water-soluble, white crystalline solid composed of hydrogen peroxide and urea. This compound serves as a source of hydrogen peroxide and is found in products ranging from disinfectants to dental bleaching agents.
The Science Behind Carbamide Peroxide
Carbamide peroxide functions by breaking down into its components, hydrogen peroxide and urea, when it contacts water or saliva. Hydrogen peroxide is the primary active agent, responsible for oxidizing or bleaching effects. Urea stabilizes the solution and helps maintain a neutral pH, contributing to a controlled release of the active ingredient.
Teeth Whitening Applications
The most recognized application for carbamide peroxide is teeth whitening, effectively lightening tooth discoloration. Upon application, released hydrogen peroxide penetrates the enamel and dentin. Inside the tooth, it encounters chromogens, colored molecules responsible for stains. Through oxidation, hydrogen peroxide breaks down these chromogens into smaller, less pigmented components, resulting in a whiter appearance.
Carbamide peroxide is available in concentrations from 10% to 44%. Over-the-counter products use lower concentrations (10-20%) for mild stains. Professional dental treatments utilize higher concentrations (20-44%) for rapid results, applied under supervision using custom trays or specialized equipment to protect gum tissues.
Delivery methods include gels applied via custom trays or pre-filled strips, and brush-on applications. Treatment duration varies; some over-the-counter products require daily use for 14 days, while professional applications involve shorter, more intensive sessions. Higher concentrations speed up whitening, but lower concentrations over a longer period achieve comparable results with fewer side effects.
Other Oral and Medical Uses
Beyond teeth whitening, carbamide peroxide serves other oral and medical purposes due to its antiseptic and oxidizing properties. It is used as an oral wound healing agent and antiseptic for minor mouth irritations like canker sores or gum inflammation. Oxygen released from the hydrogen peroxide component helps cleanse the oral cavity and inhibit odor-causing bacteria.
Carbamide peroxide is also employed in earwax removal, known as cerumenolysis. Applied as ear drops (typically around 6.5%), it releases oxygen upon contact with earwax. This creates a foaming action that helps soften and dislodge hardened earwax. The released oxygen also contributes to antimicrobial effects, helping prevent ear canal infection.
Safety Guidelines and Potential Side Effects
Carbamide peroxide can cause temporary side effects, particularly with teeth whitening. Common effects include tooth sensitivity and gum irritation. Tooth sensitivity occurs as peroxide penetrates enamel, irritating nerve endings within the dentin. Gum irritation (redness or burning) may arise if whitening gel contacts soft mouth tissues. These effects are usually temporary and subside once product use is discontinued.
To ensure safe use, follow product instructions carefully and avoid overuse. Consulting a dental professional before starting a teeth whitening regimen is advisable; they can assess oral health and recommend appropriate concentrations. Ingestion of carbamide peroxide products should be avoided. Swallowing even small amounts can lead to stomach upset, while larger ingestions may cause severe symptoms, including burns to the mouth or digestive tract.