A sparkling white smile radiates youthfulness and oral health. You can get that look safely with professional teeth whitening at Pasadena Prosthodontics and General Dentistry in Pasadena, CA.
How whitening works
Teeth look pearly-smooth, but their surfaces are covered with tubules – microscopic channels that extend through enamel to the yellowish dentin layer underneath. A medical-grade peroxide formulation for whitening penetrates tubules, loosening and lifting pigments that tarnish your smile as it oxidizes. Professional whitening returns teeth to their original color, and with continued use can bleach enamel to a brighter shade. This is especially important to those with a genetically darker shade, or when enamel thins with age allowing dentin to show through.
Faster isn’t always better
Super-fast in-office whitening has become popular, but it isn’t necessarily the best solution. Light-activated whitening dehydrates enamel and can result in acute sensitivity.
Our dentists take extra steps to ensure a comfortable, successful whitening experience:
- They take time to evaluate your oral health prior to whitening. Tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental issues must be addressed first.
- Dental restorations – fillings, crowns, bridges, onlays, and inlays – do not respond to whitening. The dentist talks with you about options for sequencing replacement with whitening for even coloration.
- Impressions are taken of your mouth to create application trays. These clear plastic appliances fit comfortably, snugly holding the bleaching gel on tooth surfaces for even whitening results (no dark lines between teeth).
- You may wear the trays twice a day for 30 minutes, or overnight if you prefer, until you reach your whitening goals. Then, periodic re-treatment keeps your smile bright, even if you drink coffee or use tobacco.
- The whitening process effectively cleanses tubules, so you may experience sensitivity. With professional whitening, you have the guidance of a trained dental team. The dentist can adjust your treatment schedule, apply topical fluoride, or add a buffering ingredient to your whitening gel to minimize this issue.
Teeth whitening treatments explained by Dr. Marchack
What causes teeth discoloration?
There are many causes of discolored teeth. There are external influences and internal influences. External influences are maybe staining, and internal causes can be something from growth or just age.
What is teeth whitening?
Teeth whitening is an oxidation process to help whiten your teeth, and there are many different ways that we can whiten our teeth.
They are over the counter procedures, generic in-office procedures, custom trays, as well as Zoom whitening, which is a high powered procedure done in the office which creates great results.
Teeth Whitening FAQs
What is professional teeth whitening?
Professional teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental treatment designed to brighten your natural teeth safely and effectively. Unlike store-bought products, dentist-supervised whitening uses specially formulated bleaching agents that are stronger, controlled, and tailored to your individual teeth. This ensures a brighter, more uniform smile without causing damage to enamel or gums. The procedure can dramatically improve your confidence, giving you a radiant smile for social, professional, and personal occasions.
How does teeth whitening remove stains?
Whitening treatments work by breaking down the molecules that cause discoloration. The bleaching gel penetrates the enamel and lifts both surface and deeper stains, gradually revealing a brighter shade of your natural teeth. In-office whitening treatments deliver faster results in a single appointment, while take-home trays provide a gradual, controlled whitening process you can do at your convenience. Both approaches focus on safety and precision to protect the health of your teeth.
What causes teeth to become discolored?
Teeth can darken for many reasons:
- Foods and beverages: Coffee, tea, wine, and deeply pigmented sauces or berries can leave lasting stains.
- Tobacco products: Smoking or chewing tobacco can lead to significant yellowing over time.
- Aging: Enamel naturally thins with age, revealing the yellower dentin underneath.
- Medications: Certain prescriptions or medical treatments may affect tooth color.
- Oral hygiene habits: Inconsistent brushing, flossing, or professional cleanings allow plaque and tartar to accumulate, dulling your smile.
What types of whitening treatments are available?
There are several approaches to whitening:
- In-office whitening: Delivers fast, dramatic results under professional supervision using stronger gels.
- Custom take-home trays: Allow gradual whitening at home with professionally fitted trays and dentist-grade gel for controlled results.
- Over-the-counter products: Toothpastes, strips, or gels are convenient but usually slower and less predictable. Choosing a dentist-guided plan ensures safety, comfort, and uniform results.
Is professional whitening safe for my teeth?
Yes. Dentist-supervised whitening is considered safe for most patients. Your dentist will protect your gums, evaluate the health of your teeth, and monitor the procedure carefully. Following professional instructions minimizes the risk of sensitivity or irritation while delivering optimal results.
Will whitening affect crowns, veneers, or fillings?
Whitening only works on natural enamel. Crowns, veneers, or fillings will not change color. If you have restorations, your dentist can coordinate treatment so your smile is balanced and uniform, potentially replacing old restorations to match your newly brightened teeth.
How long will whitening results last?
Results vary depending on habits and oral hygiene. Typically, professional whitening lasts several months to a few years. Avoiding stain-causing foods and drinks, quitting tobacco, and maintaining regular brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings can help prolong your results. Periodic touch-up treatments can also maintain your new bright smile.
Are there side effects?
Some patients experience mild, temporary tooth sensitivity or gum irritation, especially with stronger treatments. These effects usually fade within a few days. Your dentist can provide guidance and products to reduce discomfort and protect sensitive teeth.
How can I maintain my white smile over time?
To keep your teeth looking their best, practice excellent oral hygiene, avoid stain-heavy foods and drinks when possible, use a straw for beverages that can stain, and schedule regular dental check-ups. Touch-up whitening treatments at home or in-office can help maintain long-lasting brightness.
How do I get started with professional whitening?
The first step is a consultation with Dr. Christopher Marchack. During your appointment, he will assess your teeth, discuss your goals, and recommend the most effective whitening method for you. With a personalized plan, you can achieve a safe, natural-looking, and long-lasting bright smile that enhances your confidence.
It is a good idea to learn about teeth whitening, whether you schedule for a smile makeover or just want to liven up your look. Call our Pasadena, CA office at 855.770.3737.
