Know The Difference Between Teeth Whitening & Bleaching

Everyone has heard of teeth whitening solutions that can be applied at the dental office or bought from a pharmacy. However, some confuse these products with teeth bleaching. Others are not aware of the differences between the two. These are two highly different oral health care products that everyone should have complete knowledge of.

Teeth Whitening Vs. Teeth Bleaching

Many people use the terms teeth whitening & bleaching for the same process, but the truth is they are quite different. They both have a specific definition of each term & the main difference is that ‘teeth bleaching is a whitening of the teeth above their natural white shade’.

The teeth bleaching procedure in Artesia makes the teeth look much whiter than they would otherwise appear. Bleaching involves usage strips or gels that we apply at the dental office or that the patient applies at home. Teeth whitening means whitening teeth, so they stay true to their natural white shade.

Teeth whitening products do not bleach the teeth. Plenty of toothpaste claims they can provide white teeth as they are made using abrasives that eliminate stains from teeth. It is why semantics are so necessary for oral health treatments.

Semantics Matter When It Comes to Beautifying the Teeth

Many teeth whitening products will be able to restore the teeth shade close to the initial hue of white and no more. An oral health product that fights stains from teeth cannot use the term “bleaching” during marketing. A product that bleaches can use the term “whitening.” Understand what one is expending for before making any financial commitment.

The patient needs to be cautious of bleaching the teeth when looking for a white color that surpasses the whiteness of the teeth when they first appeared in the mouth. There is also a chance of potential tooth sensitivity to cold temperatures. However, this sensitivity is for a brief time. It is due to the opening of the natural enamel pores during the treatment.

Once these pores get re-mineralized, you will not feel any sensitivity anymore. So give some thought to the contrasts between teeth whitening and teeth bleaching before proceeding with any of the solutions. Be mindful that to whiten teeth beyond their original color, the product must have an active ingredient like carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide.

Since whitening can eliminate the stains and debris along the surface of teeth, whiteners can contain anything from a mouth rinse to toothpaste. Bleaching agents with the ingredients listed above will cause oxygen molecules to discharge slowly & immediately while stain pigmentation wears off.

Meet The Cosmetic Dentist In Artesia

Are you considering teeth whitening or some other oral health treatment to enhance the hue or look of your teeth? Or, If you are looking for a way to improve your confidence and oral health, contact us today to schedule an appointment with our dental office in Artesia. So we can tell you more about our oral health care & find the best solution for you.