What is the Difference Between Teeth Whitening and Teeth Bleaching?

Teeth Whitening Oakland, CATeeth Whitening Oakland, CA

If you have yellow teeth, stains on your teeth or are not happy about the appearance of your teeth, getting a teeth whitening or bleaching treatment is a great way to restore them to their original appearance. However, you should find out more about the procedures before deciding on which is best for you.

Differences between teeth whitening and teeth bleaching

Teeth whitening

According to the American Dental Association, teeth whitening is the process of restoring your teeth to their natural color by removing the stains on the surface of your teeth, using whitening agents that are found in toothpaste and mouthwash.

Teeth bleaching

Teeth bleaching is the process of whitening your teeth to the extent that they become whiter than they originally were, using bleaching agents like hydrogen peroxide.

Even though the terms are often used interchangeably, it is important to know the difference because it will help you make a well-informed decision if you are interested in improving the appearance of your teeth.

Teeth whitening options

Going to the dentist

If you are interested in getting your teeth whitened, you can either get it done at your dentist’s office or from the comfort of your home. If you are looking for the best result, getting your teeth whitened by a dentist is your best option because your dentist uses a higher concentration of the whitening agent than what is available in the home kits, and completes the process in one visit.

The effects of the teeth whitening also last longer when you get it done at the dentist.

Home whitening kits

Using an at-home teeth whitening kit takes a little longer before you start to see results because the whitening agent is diluted and it has to be applied on your teeth on a daily basis for up to a few weeks. Take home kits are convenient to use and are cheaper than a trip to the dentist, but the effects usually do not last more than six months.

Teeth bleaching options

If you want to whiten your teeth beyond their natural appearance, your best option is to get it done at the dentist's office, especially if you have damaged or traumatized teeth. Using an at-home teeth bleaching kit will not help you achieve the desired results because the color of the damaged tooth will not match the rest of your teeth after you apply the bleaching agent, costing you time and money.

In this case, going to your dentist to get your teeth bleached is recommended because the dentist can get the damaged tooth to match the color of your other teeth by applying the bleaching agent inside the tooth, which you cannot do with an at-home kit.

Even if you do not have a damaged tooth, going to the dentist is still the better option, especially if you want fast results. The bleaching agent used by dentists contains 15 to 43 percent of carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide, the active bleaching ingredients, while the at-home kits have anywhere from three percent to 20 percent of the ingredients.

The bottom line

Getting your teeth whitened or bleached is a great way to improve your smile. If you are not sure which option is right for you, talk to your dentist to find out more about the procedures.

Are you considering teeth whitening in the Oakland area? Get more teeth whitening information at https://dentalimplantsoakland.com.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Teeth Whitening.

Recent Posts

Pros And Cons Of Professional Teeth Whitening

A cosmetic procedure that has dramatically increased in popularity over the years is teeth whitening. Bright, white teeth can be visually appealing as well as a sign the teeth are healthy. For these and other reasons, many people try different methods to get rid of tooth stains. Here are some of the pros and cons…

What Is Holistic Ozone Treatment Dentistry?

Holistic ozone treatment in dentistry offers a natural, non-toxic alternative to conventional dental procedures, utilizing medical-grade ozone to disinfect, heal, and preserve oral tissues. This treatment works with the body's natural immune responses to target harmful bacteria and support healthy tissue regeneration. In this way, holistic ozone treatment dentistry can reduce the need for more…

Common Cosmetic Dental Procedures In Full Mouth Reconstruction

You probably have many questions if your dentist has recommended a full mouth reconstruction. Read on to learn more about the procedures typically involved in full mouth reconstructions. There are a variety of reasons why you may be concerned about impending treatments. Many of these procedures are invasive and time-consuming. Different cosmetic dental procedures are…

Invisalign® Dentist Or Orthodontist: What’s The Difference And Why It Matters?

Many patients wonder about the differences between an Invisalign® dentist and an orthodontist when considering Invisalign treatment. While both professionals can offer Invisalign services, there are important distinctions between the two that may affect the treatment process. Understanding these differences is crucial for selecting the right provider to ensure optimal results and a smooth experience.The…

Oakland Dental Implant Center

Share
Published by
Oakland Dental Implant Center

Recent Posts

What Is Holistic Ozone Treatment Dentistry?

Holistic ozone treatment dentistry provides safe, chemical-free disinfection and supports natural tissue regeneration.

3 weeks ago

Common Cosmetic Dental Procedures in Full Mouth Reconstruction

A complete mouth reconstruction allows you to enjoy excellent health as well as improve your…

2 months ago

Invisalign® Dentist or Orthodontist: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters?

An Invisalign dentist may provide a more flexible approach to treatment, accommodating the patient’s unique…

3 months ago

Effective Cold Sore Treatment Options Recommended by a Dentist

Cold sores are a common condition. While most can heal on their own, certain cases…

4 months ago

What Does a Family Dentist Do?

A family dentist can offer oral health care for children, adults and the elderly. A…

5 months ago

When Would Oral Surgery Be Necessary?

While it may seem intimidating to some patients, oral surgery is relatively common and can…

6 months ago