Whitening agents are substances used to lighten the color of materials, particularly in the context of dental care and laundry. In dental products, they often contain ingredients like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which help remove stains from teeth and enhance their brightness. In laundry, whitening agents, such as optical brighteners, work by reflecting light to make fabrics appear whiter and brighter. These agents can be found in various products, including toothpaste, whitening strips, and laundry detergents. While effective, it's important to use them as directed to avoid potential side effects, such as tooth sensitivity or fabric damage.