If you’re looking to enhance your smile and achieve a brighter, whiter appearance, our dental office in Greenbrae offers professional tooth whitening services. Our expert cosmetic dentist provides various treatment options to help you achieve a stunning smile. One of our highly recommended procedures is tooth bleaching, as it offers a quick and effective way to transform your smile. Whether you have a special event coming up or simply want to enhance your regular oral health routine, we can accommodate your needs.

Many residents throughout Greenbrae and Marin County choose to have their teeth whitened on a regular basis to look and feel their best. As we age, our teeth can become dull and yellow due to a combination of natural aging and factors like diet and lifestyle choices. Common culprits include coffee, tea, wine, smoking, and foods with colorants. While brushing immediately after consuming these substances can help prevent stains, it’s often not enough to eliminate the risk entirely. Fortunately, stained and yellow teeth don’t have to be permanent.

In-office tooth whitening can brighten your smile by up to 8 shades, which is 6 shades lighter than what store-bought whitening products typically achieve.

OTC whitening vs. dental grade

There are various types of teeth bleaching options available, including whitening toothpaste, over-the-counter solutions like trays or strips, and professional whitening solutions. While whitening toothpaste can brighten teeth to some extent, it is typically not strong enough to achieve significant whitening on its own. We recommend using toothpaste as part of an overall teeth whitening treatment, in conjunction with other methods. After a professional whitening treatment, toothpaste can help maintain the brightness of your teeth.

Over-the-counter solutions like whitening trays or strips do work to some extent, but they are generally not as effective as professional solutions. Store-bought whitening trays are designed to fit everyone’s teeth, rather than being customized to your specific needs. As a result, they may not fit well, leading to looseness and potential leakage of the whitening solution, which can cause gum irritation.

For dramatic and immediate results, it’s advisable to schedule an appointment with our dental care team for professional tooth whitening solutions. Our 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 the superior option when it comes to achieving significant and long-lasting results.

How it works

During the tooth whitening procedure, a specially formulated whitening solution is applied to the teeth. The hydrogen peroxide in the solution penetrates the enamel, initiating an oxidation process that transforms molecules to reflect less or no light. This renders them colorless, resulting in the appearance of white teeth. This process is highly effective in eliminating stains and can be repeated as needed.

In some cases, stains may be too stubborn for a standard teeth bleaching procedure to fully address. In such situations, our dentist may recommend alternative treatments, such as dental veneers, to cover dark stains. However, it’s generally wise to attempt a teeth whitening procedure first before exploring more extensive cosmetic options.

We also recommend patients have their teeth whitened before undergoing other dental procedures. Most dental restorations and cosmetic materials are stain-resistant and bleach-resistant. For instance, a dental crown maintains its initial color over time and doesn’t bleach. When dental restorations or cosmetic treatments are created in a dental lab, they are matched to the shade of the surrounding teeth. If the surrounding teeth are yellow, the restorations will be crafted in a similar shade. Thus, timing teeth whitening procedures correctly is important. If you reside in the 94705 area and are in need of a dental

Teeth whitening FAQ

Does tooth whitening cause permanent tooth sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity caused by whitening is typically transient. It usually subsides within one to two days after the treatment, and the patient’s sensitivity level returns to what it was prior to the whitening process.

Can I get my teeth whitened?

Most people are candidates for tooth whitening, but it’s always best to consult with your dental professional to determine the suitability of the treatment for your specific situation.

How long does tooth whitening last?

Generally, the results of whitening can last from six months to two years. Some studies even report results lasting up to 10 years. To maintain the results, it helps to avoid staining substances like red wine, coffee, and smoking.

Is tooth bleaching safe?

Numerous studies have shown that tooth whitening is safe. To protect your tooth enamel, it’s recommended to use products containing calcium sulfate and fluoride.

Does tooth whitening affect fillings, veneers, or crowns?

Tooth whitening has minimal to no effect on restorative materials like porcelain or crowns. However, it may temporarily reduce the bond strength between enamel and composite restorations. It’s advisable to consult with your dental professional before starting any tooth whitening procedure.

Is the agent used in tooth whitening toxic?

Tooth whitening products developed from substances like carbamide peroxide, hydrogen peroxide, and urea (which are found in every human cell) are generally safe to use. Concerns arise when individuals misuse the products for extended periods without following instructions. Adhering to the recommended guidelines helps alleviate potential issues.