Is There a Difference Between Dental Bleaching and Dental Whitening?
Cosmetic dentistry provides many ways to make your smile look great. For many patients that have had braces or have healthy teeth, cosmetic procedures like clear aligners or dental veneers aren’t a practical or necessary solution for a beautiful smile. Many of these patients with healthy, straight teeth improve their smile by making it whiter and brighter. Here at Smile Brightly, we offer two different options for a whiter smile, Kor Whitening, and dental bleaching. These two options often confuse our patients, since they sound so similar. So what is the difference between dental bleaching and dental whitening, and what is best for your smile?
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening refers to the process of returning teeth to their natural color. This process can be accomplished using a whitening solution in specially fitted trays, non-chemical methods of whitening like lasers, or for difficult stains, a combination of the two. Whitening procedures are generally safe, and in the case of chemical whitening products, can be done outside of the dentist office. These products are generally gentle on your teeth and have few side effects from their treatment. Laser whitening is done in your dentist’s office and may take a few appointments to return your teeth to their natural color. When you are whitening your teeth, it is important to remember that each person’s teeth are naturally different in color, and results will vary from patient to patient.
Dental Bleaching
This procedure refers to the process of whitening teeth beyond their natural color. This process uses stronger whitening chemicals and is generally done under the supervision of a dentist. There are some over the counter bleaching products, but the best results for this process are achieved using products provided by your dentist and applied under specific conditions and directions. This ensures that you get the desired result, without damaging your teeth. Because of the strength of the products used to get your teeth extra white and bright, some patients may experience sensitivity or discomfort from this process. However, these side effects are short-lived, and most patients that choose bleaching understand the potential discomfort.
Which Process is Best for Me?
This is an important conversation to have with your dentist before you decide on how to brighten your smile. Not every product is right for every patient. Some patients may want to bleach their teeth, but if they already suffer from sensitivity issues, it may be better to use a milder product that won’t cause much discomfort. If you just want a cleaner smile and don’t need bright white teeth, whitening processes can be the perfect answer. You get a beautiful smile that is natural and free of surface stains. For the patient with healthy teeth, who wants that show-stopping smile, dental bleaching is the perfect solution.
I Am Looking for the Best Local Dentist Near Me in Warren, MI!
No matter the process that you chose for a brighter whiter smile, make sure that you include Dr. Apsey in your decision-making process. Dr. Apsey and the team at Smile Brightly in Warren, MI has many years of experience helping patients make the right choices for their smile. To get a whiter smile, safely choose an in-office option like Kor Whitening or our safe dental bleaching products. To schedule an appointment for a whiter smile, call us today at (586) 573-7700.