Does whitening toothpaste really whiten teeth?
POSTED: 09:48 AM MDT Oct 22, 2013   
UPDATED: 12:07 PM MST Nov 04, 2013  Toothbrush and toothpaste
By Mayo Clinic News Network  Whitening toothpaste can whiten
teeth slightly by removing surface stains, such as those caused
by drinking coffee or smoking. Whitening toothpaste can also be
used after a bleaching treatment to help maintain results.  To
remove surface stains, whitening toothpaste typically includes:
Some whitening toothpastes contain the chemical blue covarine,
which adheres to the surface of the teeth and creates an optical
illusion that can make teeth appear less yellow.  When used
twice a day, whitening toothpaste can take from two to six weeks
to make teeth appear whiter. Whitening toothpaste that contains
blue covarine can have an immediate effect.  Although whitening
toothpaste is generally safe for daily use, be careful to follow
manufacturer recommendations. Excessive use of whitening
toothpaste can damage your tooth enamel over time.  Keep