Teeth whitening and bleaching are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing.
Teeth whitening is a process of removing surface stains and discolorations from teeth, which can be caused by factors like smoking, consuming certain foods and drinks, or poor oral hygiene. Whitening can be achieved through a variety of methods, including the use of whitening toothpaste, over-the-counter whitening strips, or professional teeth cleaning at a dental office.
On the other hand, teeth bleaching involves the use of a bleaching agent to lighten the color of the teeth beyond their natural shade. Bleaching is typically used to treat deeper and more stubborn stains, such as those caused by aging, genetics, or medication. Bleaching can be done at home using over-the-counter products or with professional-grade products at a dental office.
So, while both teeth whitening and bleaching are methods of improving the appearance of teeth, bleaching is a more intensive process that is used to achieve a greater level of whitening than can typically be achieved through whitening alone. It's important to note that both whitening and bleaching should only be done under the guidance of a dental professional to avoid potential side effects or damage to the teeth