🔹 What Is Teeth Whitening?

Teeth whitening (also called tooth bleaching) is a cosmetic dental procedure that lightens the color of the teeth and removes stains or discoloration.
It’s one of the most popular and non-invasive ways to improve your smile’s appearance.

Whitening works by using bleaching agents—usually hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide—to break down stains into smaller particles, making the teeth appear brighter and whiter.

🔹 Causes of Tooth Discoloration

There are two main types of stains:

1. Extrinsic Stains (Surface stains)

   • Caused by coffee, tea, tobacco, red wine, soda, or certain foods.

   • Affect only the outer enamel layer.

   • Easily removed with professional cleaning or whitening.

2. Intrinsic Stains (Internal discoloration)

   • Occur within the tooth structure (dentin).

   • Caused by aging, trauma, excessive fluoride, or certain medications (like tetracycline).

   • Harder to remove and may require stronger or longer whitening treatments.

🔹 Common Whitening Methods Explained

1. Laser or Zoom Whitening (In-Office)

   • Dentist applies a strong whitening gel (25–40% hydrogen peroxide).

   • A special laser or LED light activates the gel, accelerating the process.

   • Results: Up to 6–8 shades lighter in one visit.

2. Custom Whitening Trays (At Home)

   • The dentist makes molds of your teeth.

   • You wear the trays filled with a whitening gel for 30–60 minutes daily for 1–2 weeks.

   • Results are gradual but long-lasting.

3. Whitening Strips / Toothpaste (OTC)

   • Contain low concentrations of peroxide.

   • Convenient but less effective, and results vary.

   • Better for maintaining white teeth after professional whitening.