If you live in Santa Clara County you could benefit from a tooth whitening procedure at our local dental office. We are known for improving the appearance of our patients’ smiles. Our dentist is an expert cosmetic dentist and has multiple ways for doing so. We often recommend a tooth bleaching procedure because it is by far the easiest way to transform your smile. After cleaning your teeth, we can complete this procedure in time for a special event or as part of your regular oral health routine.

People throughout San Jose have their teeth whitened on a regular basis so that they can look and feel great. As people age, it is common for teeth to become dull and yellow. This is in part due to age itself and also due to what a person eats and drinks. Drinking coffee, tea and wine, for example, can stain your teeth. Smoking and eating foods that contain food coloring can also stain your teeth. Brushing immediately after eating and drinking can help to prevent stains but is typically not enough to remove the risk entirely. Fortunately, stained and yellow teeth don’t have to stay that way.

In-office whitening can brighten your smile up to 8 shades lighter. That’s 6 shades lighter than store bought whitening products.

OTC whitening vs. dental grade

There are various types of teeth bleaching, including whitening toothpaste, over-the-counter solutions like trays or strips, and professional whitening solutions. While whitening toothpaste can brighten teeth, it is typically not enough to actually whiten them. We recommend using toothpaste as part of an overall teeth whitening treatment but not by itself. After professional whitening, toothpaste can help maintain the brightness of teeth.

While over-the-counter solutions like whitening trays or strips work, they are not as effective as professional solutions. What you buy in the store is generally not as strong as what you can obtain from a medical professional. Moreover, store-bought whitening trays are designed to fit everyone’s teeth, not your teeth specifically, causing them to become loose, and the solution may leak, leading to gum irritation.

It is advisable to schedule an appointment with our dental care team for professional tooth whitening solutions that can transform your teeth’s appearance dramatically. Professional grade whitening gel is stronger and can whiten teeth by eight shades or more, compared to around two shades with store-bought solutions. In-office whitening is a far better option for immediate and significant results.

How it works

When a whitening solution is applied to the teeth, the hydrogen peroxide inside of the solution penetrates through the enamel. It then starts the oxidation process where molecules are transformed to reflect less or no light. This makes them appear colorless, and teeth appear white. This process is typically extremely effective for eliminating stains and can be repeated frequently.

On occasion, the stains are too strong for a teeth bleaching procedure to work. When this happens, Our dentist can provide an alternative treatment. For example, patients can have dental veneers placed on the surface of teeth in order to cover dark stains. This is often preferable for patients that smoke since veneers are stain resistant and won’t yellow quickly like natural teeth. Still, it is wise to try a teeth whitening procedure first, before starting a cosmetic one.

We also recommend that patients have their teeth whitened before having other dental procedures completed. Most of the materials that are used in dental restorations or for cosmetic purposes are stain resistant and bleach resistant. For example, a dental crown won’t stain or bleach but should maintain its initial coloring with time. When a crown, veneer, bridge, or implant is created in a dental lab, they are created to match the shade of the surrounding teeth. If the surrounding teeth are yellow, these restorations will be created in a yellow shade. If the surrounding teeth are a brilliant white, the restoration will be as well. This makes the timing of teeth whitening procedures important. If you live in the 92024 area and know that you need a dental restoration, have your teeth whitening procedure scheduled first.

Genetics, aging, and consumption of staining substances (smoking, coffee, tea, and colas) are just a few reasons why teeth appear dark.

The procedure itself shouldn’t cause any discomfort and is relatively easy to complete. Before getting started, we simply recommend that patients schedule a dental exam with our dental office. Our dentist will then examine your teeth and gums to ensure that they are healthy enough for whitening.

Teeth whitening FAQ

Does tooth whitening cause permanent tooth sensitivity?

Sensitivity from tooth whitening is always transient. That means if there is any sensitivity caused by the whitening, it goes away within one to two days after the treatment, and the patient returns to the state of sensitivity he or she had prior to starting the whitening process.

Can I get my teeth whitened?

Most people are candidates for tooth whitening, but again, each situation is unique and it’s best to contact your dental professional.

How long does tooth whitening last?

Typically you can expect whitening to last from six months to two years, although some studies report results lasting up to 10 years. Avoiding red wine, coffee, and smoking—all of which can cause staining—helps preserve the results.

Is tooth bleaching safe?

Yes, many studies have proven that tooth whitening is safe. You can protect your tooth enamel by using calcium sulfate and fluoride.

Does tooth whitening affect fillings, veneers, or crowns?

Tooth whitening has little or no effect on restorative materials such as porcelain or crowns, but it may temporarily reduce the bond strength between enamel and composite restorations. This is why it’s a good idea to check with your dental professional before beginning any course of tooth whitening.

Is the agent used in tooth whitening toxic?

Products developed from carbamide peroxide, hydrogen peroxide, and urea (substances found in every human cell), should be used cautiously to alleviate concern. Those who have issues are the ones who don’t follow instructions and overuse the products for months or years.