Different methods of teeth whitening methods are applied by dentists that depend on the type of stains and other physical conditions of the teeth. One teeth whitening method is the use of in-office bleaching or chair-side bleaching. This method of teeth whitening requires two or more visits to the dentist and each visit lasts for thirty minutes to one hour. During the bleaching process, the dentist applies protective gel to the lips and rubber shields to the gum to protect the soft oral tissues from the bleaching agents that are to be applied to whiten the teeth. Sometimes lasers or additional heat is used to enhance the action of the agent. The effects of this method of teeth whitening are long lasting.

Home bleaching is another popular method of teeth whitening. There are many teeth whitening kits available for use at home, which are either prescribed by the dentist or purchased over-the-counter. The teeth whitening kit contains a hydrogen peroxide based bleaching gel or solution that is to be applied to the tooth enamel together with a mouth guard. The lasting effect of teeth whitening varies with the frequency of use and the duration of treatment.

There are however, certain advantages and disadvantages of these methods of teeth whitening. The advantage of the hot methods is that they are faster in comparison to other whitening techniques and very much effective in case of darker stains. However, the biggest disadvantage is that due to excessive heat these methods of teeth whitening leaves behind teeth sensitivity that can even damage permanently the nerves of the teeth. The chemicals used in these hot methods are also very strong and if they accidentally touch the gums, lips or the face of the patient will give them a burn.