The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry knows how important a stunning smile is. Brighter smiles elevate one’s self-image. Teeth whitening and teeth bleaching are the two types of teeth brightening procedures available in many dental clinics. Some people think that they are the same. They are not. If you want to learn about the difference between teeth whitening and teeth bleaching, here’s what you should know.
The Differences Between Teeth Whitening and Bleaching
Teeth bleaching uses hydrogen peroxide. This is an ingredient in non-chlorine bleach. Even with this common ingredient, teeth bleaching products are never the same. Teeth whitening and teeth bleaching both aim to whiten teeth.
Many people think of these two treatments as the same thing. This is not true at all. 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. The end product is whiter teeth.
Teeth Bleaching and Whitening Products
Teeth whitening ingredients are in various kinds of toothpaste and gels. People can buy over-the-counter teeth whitening products. They can also have laser and chemical treatments at the dental clinic. Many of these products clean off the surface stains from using tobacco and drinking staining beverages. These teeth whitening products are safe and inexpensive. The effectiveness of these products depends on the severity and type of stains.
Teeth whitening products contain a small amount of hydrogen peroxide solution. If these products contain higher concentrations of bleach, they become teeth bleaching products. This often happens under the watchful eye of a dental care provider. Dentists use stronger chemicals in their clinics.
Dental care professionals can increase concentration at safe levels. This is possible because the teeth brightening procedure is under their supervision. What they do is beyond whitening. The results are more effective than what over-the-counter products can provide. Patients can get whiter teeth as soon as they leave the clinic.
When to Use Teeth Whitening and Teeth Bleaching
Determining the cause of the tooth stain is essential. It can help find out whether teeth bleaching or teeth whitening will be the most effective way for your teeth. There are extrinsic stains (outside the tooth) and intrinsic stains (inside the tooth). Teeth get extrinsic stains from colored beverages and foods. Teeth get intrinsic stains from medications, heredity, and aging.
Extrinsic stains are easy to deal with. Whitening toothpaste often gets the job done. Teeth whitening treatment from your dentist can bring lasting results. Intrinsic stains are more difficult to treat. Dentists use a higher concentration of hydrogen peroxide. Ultraviolet or curing light can amplify the strength of hydrogen peroxide. The results are often stunning. The dentist must also protect the patient’s gums, lips, and soft tissues of the mouth before the bleaching happens.
Teeth whitening and teeth bleaching are two different treatments. Talking with your dentist will determine which of these two teeth brightening procedures can help you most. At Boss Dental Care, we make sure our patients get safe and effective dental treatments. For a one-on-one consultation, please visit our clinic in Corpus, Christi, Texas. You can also call us at 361-992-7551 or 361-245-5400 if you want to schedule an appointment or make inquiries about our teeth whitening and teeth bleaching packages.
