Just about everyone has heard of teeth whitening solutions that can be applied at the dentist's office or bought in the store. However, some confuse these products with teeth bleaching. Others are not aware of the differences between the two.
These are two highly distinct oral health care products that everyone should have a full understanding of. Here is a look at the differences between teeth bleaching and teeth whitening.
Teeth Whitening Vs. Teeth Bleaching
Though many people use these terms interchangeably, the truth is they are actually quite different. The FDA has a specific definition of each term. Teeth bleaching is a whitening of the teeth in excess of their natural white hue.
The bleaching process makes the teeth appear much whiter than they would otherwise appear. Bleaching involves the use of strips or gels that we apply at the dentist's office or that the patient applies at home. Teeth whitening means whitening teeth so they revert back to their natural white hue.
Teeth whitening products do not bleach the teeth. Plenty of toothpaste is marketed as teeth whitening as they are made with abrasives that eliminate stains from teeth. This is precisely why semantics are so important in the context of oral health treatments.
Semantics Matter When It Comes to Beautifying the Teeth
Dental patients should take claims that products will whiten teeth with a grain of salt. The truth is many of these products will be able to restore teeth close to the initial shade of white and no more. An oral health product that combats stains from teeth cannot use the phrase “bleaching” during marketing. A product that bleaches can use the term “whitening.” Understand what one is paying for before making any type of financial commitment.
The patient needs to beware bleaching the teeth when looking for a strong white color that exceeds the whiteness of the teeth when they first appeared in the mouth. There is also a possibility of potential tooth sensitivity to cold temperatures. However, this sensitivity is temporary. It results from the opening of the natural enamel pores during the treatment.
What You Need to Know
Once these pores have some time to re-mineralize, they will not be so sensitive. So give some thought to the differences between teeth whitening and teeth bleaching before proceeding with either solution. Keep in mind that in order to whiten teeth beyond their initial color, the product must have an active ingredient like carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide.
Since whitening is really an elimination of stains and debris along the surface of teeth, whiteners can include anything from a mouth rinse to toothpaste. Bleaching products with the ingredients listed above will cause oxygen molecules to release gradually or instantaneously while stain pigmentation wears away.
Contact Us Today to Schedule an Appointment
Are you considering teeth whitening or another oral health treatment to improve the quality or look of your mouth? If you are looking for a way to enhance your confidence and health, let us know. Schedule an appointment with our office so we can tell you more about our oral health care solutions.
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FAQs
Teeth whitening removes stains on the surfaces of teeth. It restores the natural color of teeth. Teeth bleaching goes a step higher. It uses chemical agents to lighten the color of the enamel layer.
Which is better, teeth whitening or bleaching? ›
The whitening process restores your teeth to their natural color. Stains and dinginess are removed and though your teeth will look much better than before the process, their natural color will remain the same. The bleaching process will whiten your teeth beyond the natural color.
Is it OK to use bleach to whiten teeth? ›
Don't take the chance, and the potential result, of being burned, or poisoned, by using a home remedy of household bleach to make your smile brighter. Bleach is highly corrosive and full of damaging chemicals that are absolutely never meant to be near any person's skin, eyes, or mouth.
Does bleaching teeth whiten them? ›
Teeth whitening involves bleaching your teeth to make them lighter. It can't make your teeth brilliant white, but it can lighten the existing colour by several shades.
Does bleaching permanently whiten teeth? ›
If you have been asking yourself, “Is teeth whitening permanent?” The answer is that no teeth whitening option is permanent. That remains true whether for both at-home and professional teeth whitening.
What is the least damaging way to whiten your teeth? ›
Baking Soda: As long as you are careful to brush gently, baking soda can eliminate stains from the surface of your teeth without damaging them. Whitening Strips: Whitening strips mold to the shape of your teeth to whiten them. Whitening strips are both safe and effective.
How often is it OK to bleach your teeth? ›
How often teeth whitening treatments are recommended by dentists. Professional teeth whitening performed in the dentist's office is recommended once every year to every 18 months, depending on how long the results last. At-home kits can be used as often as once every four to six months.
Can you bleach really yellow teeth? ›
Can yellow teeth be bleached? Yellow teeth can be completely whitened with teeth whitening technologies at the dentist or at home. Depending on the status of your yellow teeth as well as your needs, the doctor will advise and prescribe the appropriate method.
What is the best method to whiten teeth? ›
In-office bleaching provides the quickest way to whiten teeth. With in-office bleaching, the whitening product is applied directly to the teeth. These products can be used in combination with heat, a special light, or a laser. Results are seen in only one, 30- to 60-minute treatment.
Can old yellow teeth be whitened? ›
It's natural for teeth to appear darker as they age, but a bleaching product with hydrogen peroxide or urea peroxide can help turn back the clock – and a whitening toothpaste is an easy way to get a jump-start.
One of the most effective ways to whiten teeth permanently is through professional teeth whitening procedures performed by a dentist. These treatments use potent bleaching agents that penetrate deep into the enamel, breaking down stains and discoloration.
How do people get their teeth so white? ›
The most common approach dentists use for brightening teeth is professional teeth whitening. It entails bleaching teeth enamel to remove surface and intrinsic stains.
How long does teeth bleaching last? ›
The effects of teeth whitening can last up to 2-3 years or as little as 6 months. It varies from person to person. Things that will stain your teeth quickly and make your whitening short-lived include: – Smoking.
What are the disadvantages of teeth bleaching? ›
Disadvantages Of Teeth Whitening
- Tooth sensitivity. Teeth whitening can cause or increase tooth sensitivity, also called dentin hypersensitivity. ...
- Doesn't work on all teeth. ...
- May exacerbate certain conditions. ...
- Temporary. ...
- Don't use if you're pregnant.
Bleaching involves the use of strips or gels that we apply at the dentist's office or that the patient applies at home. Teeth whitening means whitening teeth so they revert back to their natural white hue. Teeth whitening products do not bleach the teeth.
Can baking soda whiten teeth? ›
Baking soda can be used with some water to remove the stains on the surface of the teeth. It can also be used with hydrogen peroxide to enhance its whitening effects. Baking soda can be used by individuals with regular toothpastes too. It is also used commercially in some teeth whitening products and toothpastes.
Does anything whiten better than bleach? ›
A naturally occurring mineral, borax is a chlorine bleach alternative that helps remove stains and cuts through dulling residue. Add a half cup of powdered borax per one gallon of warm water. Add the white clothes and allow them to soak for at least 30 minutes or longer. Wash as usual.
Just about everyone has heard of teeth whitening solutions that can be applied at the dentist's office or bought in the store. However, some confuse these products with teeth bleaching. Others are not aware of the differences between the two.