GOOD VIBRATIONS

Scientists Develop Powder to Whiten Teeth With Toothbrush Vibrations

The powder could serve as a less damaging alternative to traditional teeth-whitening methods.

Scientists in China have developed a prototype powder that can whiten teeth with just vibrations from a toothbrush. The compound, called BSCT, is a nondestructive alternative to the traditional peroxide-based teeth-whitening agents often used in dental offices, which can damage enamel and irritate the gums. The study, published in the American Chemical Society Nano Journal, explores the use of BSCT to both protect and brighten teeth when activated by the vibrations of an electric toothbrush. The BSCT powder generates a small electric field when vibrated—similar to how quartz crystals power watches—which then causes chemical reactions that break apart stain-causing molecules. Using artificially stained human teeth, researchers found that brushing with BSCT resulted in brighter, visibly whiter teeth and helped regenerate damaged enamel. “This work offers a safe, at-home teeth whitening strategy integrating whitening, enamel repair and microbiome balance for long-term oral health,” Min Xing, a co-author of the study, said.