Teeth whitening or bleaching is a cosmetic dental procedure aimed at lightening the natural color of your teeth without removing any tooth surface. The process typically involves the application of a whitening agent, such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which breaks down stains and discoloration on the enamel caused by food, drink, smoking, or age. There are two main types of teeth whitening treatments: In-office whitening: Performed by a dentist, this method uses a stronger bleaching solution and may involve light or laser to speed up the process. At-home whitening: Custom-made trays or over-the-counter products are used with a milder bleaching gel to gradually whiten teeth over time. Teeth whitening is generally safe, but some individuals may experience temporary tooth sensitivity or gum irritation.