The abrasive agents are usually silica or powdered calcium. The silica is derived from sand. Flavorings are usually derived from plants such as spearmint or peppermint. Bleaching kits are popular to whiten teeth. The desire to have an attractive smile has increased the variety of tooth whiteners.
Most whiteners are available by prescription only.
A few are being sold to consumers without a prescription. I highly recommend that you have your teeth whitened under the supervision of a qualified dentist. The bleaching kits available in many drug stores can be dangerous. The trays that contain the bleaching agent are not custom made, which often causes the peroxide whitening agent to leak onto sensitive gum tissue. Safety concerns explored.