Written by Calvin Bennet · Updated September 2026
Teeth whitening is one of the most requested cosmetic dental treatments today — but people have chased whiter teeth for over 4,000 years, from ancient Egyptian pastes to Roman ammonia. Here’s how we got from there to modern peroxide whitening, and how to whiten safely now.
According to a study by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the majority of adults in the United States are not happy with their smile. This has led to an increase in popularity of dental procedures such as teeth whitening. But how did teeth whitening become so popular? Let’s take a look at its history.
Ancient Teeth
The practice of teeth whitening actually began over 4,000 years ago in ancient Egypt. Their culture strongly emphasized physical beauty, and white teeth were viewed as a sign of wealth. A type of toothpaste containing wine-vinegar, pumice stone, and ground hooves was used to achieve whiter teeth. Although this concoction did help make teeth more white, it obviously was not practical and caused a lot of damage to the tooth enamel.
Ancient Romans utilized what they called “chew sticks” as toothbrushes, chewing on them to scrape off particles on the teeth. Although they could have stopped their efforts with the chew sticks, they also decided to go one step further and use urine to get rid of dental stains. This was due to urine having a high ammonia content.
During the 17th century, barbers were responsible for both hair and teeth. As far as whitening goes, they would file down the teeth and apply an acid to whiten them. This process did whiten the teeth, but it also damaged the enamel and led to tooth decay.
The Rise of Fluoride & Modern Whitening
During the late 1800s a connection was drawn between fluoride and healthy teeth. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this connection took off in the 1930s when people who drank water containing fluoride were observed to be better protected from tooth decay and cavities.
Also in the late 1800s, chlorine was used to gain whiter teeth. Chlorine is a natural element that is an ingredient in lots of cleaning products, bleach, and is also poisonous if swallowed or inhaled. In the 1900s, hydrogen peroxide was the most popular way to whiten teeth. In the 1970s, scientists wanted to find a faster way to heal patients’ gums after removal of braces. To do this they used trays filled with Gly-Oxide, a side effect of using this was brighter and whiter teeth due to the high amount of carbamide peroxide. Different forms of peroxide are still the main component of most whitening products today.
Teeth Whitening Today
Most ways to whiten teeth throughout history are harmful to both your teeth and your general oral health. Most whitening products offered currently are safe, however, there are always certain trends that are best to avoid. Here are some helpful tips on how to safely get a whiter smile:
- Consult with your dentist to decide if you want to whiten in-office or at home
- Over-the-counter whitening strips can be used, but be mindful of overusing them
- At-home “do it yourself” remedies may not give the lasting result you want
- Teeth-whitening toothpaste and mouthwash are best for upkeep
- Talk to your dentist if you suffer from sensitive teeth or gums
Your whitening options today
Most whitening today relies on peroxide, and it’s far safer than the acids and abrasives of the past. Here’s how the common options compare:
| Method | How it works | How long it lasts | Sensitivity risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| In-office (professional) | A dentist applies a strong peroxide gel, sometimes with a light | Longest-lasting, fastest results | Higher — managed by your dentist |
| Dentist take-home trays | Custom trays + peroxide gel used over days to weeks | Long-lasting | Moderate |
| OTC whitening strips | Lower-dose peroxide strips from the drugstore | Weeks to months | Moderate — follow directions |
| Whitening toothpaste | Mild abrasives / low peroxide; lifts surface stains | Upkeep only | Low |
| Purple toothpaste | Color-correcting; cancels yellow tones temporarily | Temporary (cosmetic) | Low |
Whatever you choose, whiten safely: check with your dentist first (especially if you have sensitive teeth or gums), don’t overuse strips, and skip DIY acids like lemon or vinegar that erode enamel. For a full breakdown of options and cost, see our teeth whitening guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does teeth whitening damage enamel?
Professional and properly used at-home whitening are considered safe for enamel. Damage usually comes from overusing products or DIY acids like lemon juice or vinegar.
How long does teeth whitening last?
Anywhere from a few months to a few years, depending on the method and your habits — coffee, tea, red wine, and smoking fade results faster.
What’s the safest way to whiten teeth?
Talk to your dentist first. In-office or dentist-supervised at-home whitening is the safest and most effective route, especially if you have sensitive teeth.
Sources
Related reading
- Teeth Whitening: Your Options, What’s Safe, and What It Costs
- Will Purple Toothpaste Actually Give You a Whiter Smile?
- 10 Essential Oral Hygiene Tips
Medical disclaimer: this article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional dental advice. Talk to your dentist about what is right for you.