Teeth bleaching is a process that increases the whiteness of the color of the teeth. There are several methods of bleaching. Products used for teeth bleaching usually include hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. Some teeth bleaching procedures are done in the dentist’s office while others can be done at home.
The methods of teeth bleaching are not necessarily the same as teeth whitening. Teeth whitening makes teeth appear whiter by removing dirt or debris on the surface of the teeth. Teeth whitening is more like cleaning staining material from the teeth.
Stains from coffee use, tobacco, tea consumption, and aging typically respond well to teeth bleaching. People have different results from bleaching. Most patients have some whitening effects from teeth bleaching. Some interior stains and other staining from medications may not be resolved with bleaching or whitening methods.
If the patient does not receive good results from bleaching and the remaining stains are bothersome, the person may want to discuss other bleaching methods or the use of bonding or porcelain veneers like Lumineers. Bonding and porcelain veneers correct staining by covering the surface of the teeth with a whiter tooth-colored substance.
Hydrogen peroxide is a common chemical used in teeth bleaching processes in dental offices. The dentist may use a light or heat to increase the speed of the bleaching process. Some methods may require that a patient continues the treatment at home after the initial process is performed in the dentist’s office.
Some people experience side effects of teeth bleaching. A common side effect is tooth sensitivity. Gum irritation is one of the common side effects of teeth bleaching that requires the use of night guards. Excessive use of strong bleaching or whitening products can cause a loss of tooth enamel.
A person with stained teeth that wants teeth bleaching or whitening should discuss their options with the dentist. The dentist may ask questions about the person’s lifestyle or exposure to medications to determine the potential causes of the staining and how best to treat it. If cost is a concern, the patient may want to discuss the differences in cost for the various teeth bleaching methods.
