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Home › Podcast › Podcast Episode #22: What Is PAP and Is It A Safe Teeth Whitening Method?

Podcast Episode #22: What Is PAP and Is It A Safe Teeth Whitening Method?

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This episode is all about one of the most hyped-up topics in dentistry: whitening. While Dr. B has spoken on the topic previously and there is plenty of information available on his website, today’s episode looks at whitening in the context of a new substance on the market that claims to be safer than conventional hydrogen peroxide-based methods. It’s called PAP, or phthalimidoperoxycaproic acid, and today’s question about it comes from Charlotte in the UK; is it actually a safer alternative to peroxide? You might be surprised by Dr. B’s answer!

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Key Points From This Episode:

  • Some background on whitening and why there is so much hype and so little science behind it
  • Find out what PAP is, how it works, and why the narrative that it is safe is dangerous
  • Why regulations regarding whitening should be stricter in the US, like they are in the EU
  • The importance of professional supervision when it comes to whitening
  • Hear why Dr. B doesn’t recommend PAP as an alternative to hydrogen peroxide 
  • How overexposure to hydrogen peroxide and PAP can increase tooth sensitivity
  • Dr. B recommends waiting for further studies to be conducted on PAP before jumping on the bandwagon
  • Why you should be wary of any dentist that advises you to whiten your teeth

How to Submit Your Question:

Record your question for Dr. B at speakpipe.com/askthedentist 

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Recommended Whitening Products

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Category: Cosmetic Dentistry, Teeth Whitening

About Mark Burhenne, DDS

I’m on a mission to empower people everywhere with the same evidence-based, easy-to-understand dental health advice that my patients get. You can read my story here. I have been a dentist in private practice for 35 years. I graduated from the Dugoni School of Dentistry in San Francisco, CA in 1987 and am a member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM), Academy of General Dentistry (Chicago, IL), American Academy for Oral Systemic Health (AAOSH), and Dental Board of California.

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