Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dentistry procedure that is performed to whiten and brighten your smile. It’s one of the most popular cosmetic treatments by the Dentist in Palo Alto because it can greatly improve your smile’s appearance.

Professional teeth whitening treatments are performed in a dental office. During treatment, a whitening agent is applied to the teeth. This agent can be an in-office treatment that is applied directly to the teeth, or it can be a take-home whitening kit that the patient will apply themselves.

Here are the frequently answered questions about teeth whitening treatments:

• What is professional teeth whitening?

Teeth whitening is an in-office or at-home treatment that lightens the shade of your teeth. Our doctors may recommend whitening if your teeth are discolored or if certain medications have caused them to become discolored. In-office whitening procedures usually take about an hour.

• Are teeth whitening products safe?

Whitening is one of the safest cosmetic procedures available. There is virtually no risk of serious side effects. Though some patients may experience tooth sensitivity, this will subside soon. 

Whitening products use peroxide-based compounds to whiten teeth. The peroxide breaks down into oxygen and water in the dental enamel, and these oxygen molecules work to break down stains in the tooth enamel.

• How long does teeth whitening last?

Your results will vary, but most of the time, patients get an average of 5 years of whitening benefits. However, if you tend to drink a lot of dark liquids such as coffee, tea, or red wine, you may notice that your teeth start to discolor after a year or so. This is because your enamel becomes porous and stains more easily. Maintaining good oral hygiene habits (brushing and flossing) and visiting your dentist in Palo Alto for regular checkups can extend the effects of your whitening treatment.

• Are whitening treatments safe?

The active ingredient in teeth whitening treatments is peroxide; the same ingredient dentists use to keep patients’ mouths healthy. Whitening products are not harmful to a patient’s teeth or dental work. Instead, it eliminates dental stains and brightens teeth. Teeth whitening treatments are entirely safe when performed by a trained dental professional like Dentist in Palo Alto.

• What causes stains and discoloration on teeth?

Discoloration occurs on the teeth for several reasons. Certain foods and drinks (such as coffee, tea, and berries), tobacco use, certain medications, and genetics can all contribute to tooth discoloration.

Roshan Emam D.D.S., located in Palo Alto, CA, is equipped with the best dentists and modern technologies that enable the best dental care treatments for patients. Call us at (650) 321-0340 and schedule an appointment with the dentist to know more.