Is Professional Teeth Whitening and Teeth Bleaching the Same?

Everyone wants to walk around with a bright and healthy smile, and professional teeth whitening is becoming a more and more popular way to achieve it. Our smile is our first impression on the world, and we all want to make a good one. Some people look into over-the-counter home bleaching kits, and others decide to seek professional treatment at their dentist. There are commercials for whitening toothpaste and dental strips everywhere we look today. 

Do your research before you buy anything at a department store, and it is a good idea to ask your dentist if you are unsure if the treatment may work at all or harm your teeth during the process. 

What is professional whitening and bleaching?

If you decide to schedule a visit to your dentist to accomplish your teeth whitening, keep in mind it could be costly. Discuss the procedure with your dental coverage before your visit to be sure if they will cover any of the costs. 

In-office treatment is safe and very effective. Your dentist can use hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide to achieve optimum whitening. This process uses an abrasive ingredient to remove stains better than at-home kits mechanically. 

When purchasing teeth whitening kits for at-home use, you may be able to achieve a whiter smile, but these do-it-yourself kits will not give you the same results as in your dentist’s office. Your dentist can use a much higher chemical concentration to achieve your whiter smile quicker than any at-home kit is designed to do. 

Side effects of teeth whitening

After you have your teeth whitened either professionally or at home, you may experience some side effects. Your teeth will become more sensitive. The chemicals used in professional teeth whitening can break down your enamel and cause sensitivity. This should subside in time, and using sensitive toothpaste is recommended. 

You may also experience tingling sensations and discomfort. These symptoms should also calm down after time. Do make an appointment with your dentist if you are concerned. The chemicals involved in any bleaching or whitening can be harsh, and sometimes if you aren’t careful, you can swallow some and feel nauseated. Consult your dentist on what you can do to settle your stomach if this happens. 

Gum irritation can also occur. The chemicals for professional teeth whitening are meant for your teeth and not your skin or gums. You may experience skin irritation or gum inflammation after any whitening or bleaching. 

Weigh the pros and cons

Do your research before spending money on teeth whitening, whether over the counter or at your dentist’s office. Look at the possible side effects, read the ingredients to be sure you aren’t allergic to them, and follow all the instructions provided. 

Talk to your dentist about teeth whitening

Your dentist is the best source on this subject and ask them any questions you have. They may recommend a certain over-the-counter whitener and ease your worries about using one, or they may offer in-office treatments. Your whiter smile awaits!

Request an appointment here: https://okamotoandbigleydentistry.com or call Okamoto and Bigley Dentistry at (626) 472-2178 for an appointment in our Pasadena office.

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