One of the most common and popular types of cosmetic dental procedures is teeth bleaching. Teeth bleaching, done in a dental office, is a quick, safe, and easy way to get your teeth white. Here is more information about teeth bleaching, its benefits and drawbacks, and the difference between traditional bleaching and whitening so you can make the right choice for you.

What Is Teeth Bleaching?

Teeth bleaching, both at home and in the office, involves whitening your teeth with a peroxide-based chemical. Professional teeth bleaching uses a much higher amount of peroxide compared to in-home kits. This higher amount of chemicals is usually applied under a dentist's supervision. The chemicals are left on your teeth until the desired amount of whiteness is reached.

What Is the Difference Between Bleaching and Laser Whitening?

Like bleaching, laser whitening involves a whitening agent in the form of a gel. This chemical is activated, or heated up, with a laser. Basically, the laser works to whiten the teeth faster than with just bleaching. However, this procedure needs to be performed in more than one sitting.

What Are the Benefits of Professional Teeth Bleaching?

When you have a cosmetic dentist bleach your teeth, you are getting professional results and advice. You will also get customized help for any potential dental issues and problems that your teeth may already have. In addition, your teeth start to look good right away, and this leads to a brighter smile and a boost in confidence.

What Are the Drawbacks of Teeth Bleaching?

There are few drawbacks to teeth bleaching. One of the most common things that people complain about is more tooth sensitivity. This sensitivity increases if you have your teeth whitened often. However, this feeling goes away after a short time. If you have any existing dental problems, then have those addressed first before your teeth-whitening procedure. Teeth whitening doesn't do anything to change the color of silver fillings. If you have a large filling, then consider changing to a different type so the dark filling doesn't show through.

In-home bleaching kits will not give you the fast and highly effective results that a cosmetic dentist will. After your procedure, avoid eating staining food, such as wine or coffee, for at least a day. After that day, you should still limit these foods so that you can keep your bleached teeth white longer. Contact a cosmetic dentist if you have any questions about teeth bleaching and whether you are a good candidate for the procedure.