All toothpastes help remove surface stains by the action of light abrasives. Some whitening toothpastes contain mild polishes or chemicals that provide additional stain removal. Whitening toothpaste can only help remove surface stains and no bleach; over-the-counter and professional whitening products contain hydrogen peroxide (bleaching substances) to help remove stains on the surface of teeth and stains deep in the teeth. The whitening toothpaste used in the home does not produce the bleaching effect obtained from the dentist's office through the chair-side bleaching or bleaching function. Whitening toothpaste can reduce the color of your teeth by about one shadow. Conversely, light-sensitive whitening at your dentist's office can make your teeth three to eight shades lighter.
