Dental bleaching, also known as tooth whitening, is a common procedure in general dentistry, especially in the field of cosmetic dentistry. The importance of tooth whitening for patients and consumers has led to a dramatic increase in the number of products and procedures available in recent years. The mechanism of tooth whitening by peroxide occurs through the diffusion of peroxide through enamel, causing oxidation and lightening of stains. Tooth whitening is highly effective in providing fast, non-invasive cosmetic changes. The effects of bleaching can last for several months, but may vary depending on the patient's lifestyle. This article reviews various bleaching techniques and recent advances in both vital and non-vital teeth.