Difference Between Teeth Whitening and Bleaching
Teeth Whitening

edental

25 July 2024

Difference Between Teeth Whitening and Bleaching

If you want to brighten your smile, you may have heard ”teeth whitening” and “teeth bleaching.” Although these two treatments are sometimes used interchangeably, there are some significant variations between them. In this piece, we’ll look at the distinctions and help you decide which choice suits you. 

What is Teeth Whitening? 

Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dentistry procedure designed to eliminate surface stains and discoloration from your teeth. This is often accomplished using specialist whitening toothpastes, rinses, or over-the-counter whitening solutions. These solutions work by gently removing surface stains to reveal a brighter, more brilliant smile. 

 

Teeth whitening is typically regarded as a gentle and safe technique to improve the appearance of your teeth. It’s ideal for people with surface stains or discoloration caused by food, drinks, or tobacco usage. 

What is Teeth Bleaching? 

Teeth bleaching, on the other hand, is a more involved procedure that extends beyond simply eliminating surface stains. This method employs chemical agents, like as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, to actively brighten the underlying tooth structure. 

 Bleaching can be done in the office by a dentist or at home using custom-fitted trays or whitening strips. In-office bleaching often employs a greater concentration of the active substances, allowing for more dramatic effects in a shorter length of time. 

Differences  

The primary distinction between teeth whitening and bleaching is the degree of treatment. Whitening aims to remove surface stains, whereas bleaching changes the color of the tooth itself. 

 Whitening is often seen as a gentler and less intrusive choice, although bleaching can be more effective for deeply embedded stains or severe discoloration. However, bleaching may result in transient sensitivity or gum inflammation. 

 Another significant difference is the persistence of the findings. Whitening results are often transient, since stains can gradually re-accumulate over time. Bleaching, on the other hand, can produce longer-lasting benefits, with effects that could last several months to a year or more. 

Conclusion 

It’s always best to consult with a dental professional, who can assess your specific needs and recommend the most appropriate course of action. They can also provide guidance on the appropriate use and safety of any whitening or bleaching products.