Glossary

Teeth Whitening Glossary

Key terms for understanding professional and at-home teeth whitening — the bleaching agents used, the types of stains treated, and the different whitening methods available.

In-Office Whitening

Professional whitening treatment performed in a dental office, often using a high-concentration whitening gel and a special light or laser to accelerate the process.

At-Home Whitening

Whitening treatments that can be done at home, typically using custom-made trays with a lower-concentration whitening gel or over-the-counter products like whitening strips or toothpaste.

Bleaching

The chemical process of lightening the color of teeth using peroxide-based agents.

Custom Trays

Mouth trays made from impressions of your teeth to ensure a comfortable and effective fit for at-home whitening.

Laser Whitening

Using a laser to activate the whitening gel and accelerate the whitening process.

Scaling and Polishing

Cleaning the teeth to remove surface stains and plaque before whitening.

Zoom Whitening

A popular in-office whitening system that uses a special lamp to activate the whitening gel.

Hydrogen Peroxide

A common bleaching agent used in many whitening products.

Carbamide Peroxide

Another bleaching agent that breaks down into hydrogen peroxide.

Whitening Gel

A peroxide-based gel applied to the teeth for whitening.

Whitening Strips

Thin, flexible strips coated with whitening gel that are applied to the teeth.

Whitening Toothpaste

Toothpaste containing mild abrasives or polishing agents to remove surface stains.

Extrinsic Stains

Stains on the outer surface of the teeth caused by food, drinks, or smoking.

Intrinsic Stains

Stains within the tooth structure, often caused by medications or trauma.

Sensitivity

Increased tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet stimuli, which can be a side effect of whitening.

Shade Guide

A tool used to measure and compare tooth color.

Tetracycline Staining

Intrinsic staining caused by the antibiotic tetracycline.