Teeth Whitening

Most everyone cares about having a bright, white smile. But sometimes, you need a little help to make your teeth whiter. At Pastel Dental in San Francisco, California, Alex Pastel, DDS, Megan Morrow, DDS, and their team offer professional teeth whitening.

FAQs

Everything you need to know about dental care

Professional teeth whitening offers a dentist-approved treatment that makes your teeth whiter in one visit, so you get results quickly. The over-the-counter options can take many days for you to see a difference, and the safety of the chemicals you put on your teeth can’t be monitored by a dentist. Before your treatment, the team at Pastel Dental gives you a thorough exam to make sure you don’t have any signs of damage. If your oral health looks good, they continue with your teeth whitening. The team also offers treatment that you can use at home that includes customized trays to fit your mouth. They provide guidance on safety, as well. Overall, the team at Pastel Dental encourages the professional route for teeth whitening to give you the experience and the results you want.
Several factors can increase your risk for dental staining over the years, including:
  • Age
  • Color of foods and drinks consumed
  • Antibiotics
  • Certain medications
  • Genetics
  • Tooth decay
  • Smoking
If your teeth aren’t as white as you’d like, the team helps determine if teeth whitening is right for you during your consultation.
Teeth whitening can cause tooth sensitivity. When the hydrogen-peroxide gel is applied, the components of the chemical begin to break up stains and discoloration. Some people experience tooth pain, and others don’t. If you do, ways to minimize your discomfort include:
  • Avoid hot and cold foods and drinks for a day or two
  • Gently brush your teeth with lukewarm water
  • Breathe through your nose to prevent airflow from passing over your teeth
  • Take recommended over-the-counter medicines for pain
The good news is — if you experience tooth pain, it doesn’t last long.
Before your procedure begins, your teeth are examined and then cleaned. If you have signs of decay, your process can be halted. Otherwise, your treatment can begin. Your dentist applies a professional, chemical-grade bleaching gel to your teeth. Your gums are carefully covered to protect them, while each tooth gets covered with the gel. Your specialist then puts a special laser light on your teeth to activate the chemical and whiten your teeth. The process takes about 45 minutes.