Is There a Difference Between Teeth Bleaching and Teeth Whitening?

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.