Teeth Bleaching vs. Teeth Whitening
You’ve probably seen someone with pearly white teeth before and wondered, “How have they managed to keep their teeth so bright all these years?” The truth is, many people these days are opting to whiten their teeth with artificial methods to achieve that picture-ideal smile.
Continue reading to learn more about teeth bleaching vs. teeth whitening, or contact Elite Prosthetic Dentistry today to see how we can help. We are located in Washington DC and serve Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Arlington, nearby areas of Maryland and Virginia, and from around the country.

Bleaching vs. Whitening
Nowadays, the terms “teeth whitening” and “teeth bleaching” are used almost interchangeably - (their distinction is one mostly used by the FDA). But what’s the difference between teeth whitening and bleaching?
When teeth are whitened beyond their natural color, the process is referred to as “tooth bleaching”. This type of whitening usually involves using some form of “bleaching” agent such as hydrogen-or-carbamide peroxide.
Another method of restoring teeth to their original, whiter state of being is known as “teeth whitening”. This process is different from bleaching in that it involves cleaning the surface of teeth to remove stains, dirt, and other brightness inhibitors to restore the teeth to their original color. Sometimes this process also involves the use of bleaching agents.
Teeth Whitening vs Bleaching: Our Approach
When you get your teeth whitened in our office, we utilize a highly-potent peroxide bleaching gel that can be better activated with a laser. We will also apply a gel to your gums to protect from chemical exposure.
Store-bought whitening kits contain a lower-potency whitening gel but implement a similar process. These kits can be a significantly cheaper solution but are usually not as effective and can even be damaging if not applied correctly. And many people these days are even trying DIY methods to enhance their smile.
Teeth Whitening with Elite Prosthetic Dentistry in Washington DC
Whatever method you choose, it’s always best to contact Elite Prosthetic Dentistry online first or calling 202-244-2101 so that you can make sure you are choosing the safest teeth whitening option for you. Our team, lead by renowned prosthodontist Dr. Gerald Marlin, is highly knowledgeable and prepared to help you enjoy a “simply radiant, simply natural” smile through teeth whitening or one of our many other cosmetic dentistry procedures. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

Simply Radiant,
Simply Natural
Dr. Gerald Marlin is a leading specialist in implant, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry. One of the only prosthodontists with an on-site lab, Dr. Marlin has been voted “Top Dentist” by his peers for more than 20 years in a row in Washingtonian Magazine’s annual “Best Dentist” survey, and is considered the most experienced prosthodontist in the D.C. area.
Related Patient Success Stories
Explore similar patient success stories demonstrating our expertise in advanced prosthetic dentistry.
Temporary Crowns Restore Patient's Smile in Just One Day with an Immediate Smile Makeover
A patient from Potomac, Maryland, came to Elite Prosthetic Dentistry with the chief complaint of pain from a failing dental implant and its significant impact on her appearance.
Multi-Faceted Treatment for Patient Unhappy With Her Artificial-Looking Crowns, Teeth and Gums
Many patients come to Elite Prosthetic Dentistry unhappy with the appearance of their smile. However, this particular patient presented with multiple interconnected problems that together created a smile she found deeply unsatisfying.
Treating Kevin’s Collapsed Bite with a Complete Smile Makeover with New Dentures
Dentures are sometimes not created to the ideal aesthetic and functional scheme. When improperly fabricated, dentures can make an individual appear almost a generation older than their actual age. They can have a poor fit that feels loose and unstable when eating or speaking, and they can actually accelerate bone loss over time.
Related Articles
Deepen your knowledge with additional insights on this topic.
Cosmetic Dentistry Can my tetracycline stained teeth be made to look pretty?
Tetracycline and other deep, intrinsic stains are best masked with custom crowns - veneers won’t suffice. Elite Prosthetic Dentistry in Washington, DC.
Cosmetic Dentistry How is the Gummy Smile Fixed?
Dr. Marlin reshapes gum tissue and fabricates custom crowns to correct gummy smiles, creating a balanced and confident smile in Washington, DC.
Discovering Cosmetic Dentistry Beyond Aesthetics
Explore how cosmetic dentistry goes beyond aesthetics to improve oral health, self-confidence, and overall well-being with modern treatments and technology.