Teeth Whitening in Santa Monica
Teeth whitening is a very popular cosmetic dentistry procedure that aims at improving your tooth’s appearance by restoring enamel to its natural color- white.
Professional In-Office Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening performed in our office is far more powerful and effective than the treatments found at your local drug or grocery store.Teeth whitening treatments performed in our dentist's office are guaranteed to whiten your teeth by at least a few shades. The severity of the discoloration on your teeth will determine how many appointments you will need until your they are completely whitened.
Common Causes of Discoloration
There are many sources of teeth discoloration, so we will only cover some of the most common culprits:- Coffee
- Soda
- Wine
- Bad oral hygiene
- Dark berries
- Tea
- Tobacco (or smoking in general)
If you have any questions regarding in-office teeth whitening, then please call our office at 310-453-4488.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is professional teeth whitening?
Professional teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental treatment that uses higher-concentration bleaching agents than those found in over-the-counter products to lighten tooth discoloration and staining. It is performed under dental supervision to ensure safety and effectiveness.
2. What types of teeth whitening do you offer?
We offer in-office whitening for immediate results in a single appointment, as well as custom take-home whitening trays for gradual whitening at your convenience. Dr. Sadat will recommend the best approach based on your goals and the nature of your staining.
3. How white will my teeth get?
Results vary depending on the type and severity of your staining, the natural shade of your teeth, and the method used. Most patients achieve several shades lighter. In-office whitening can produce dramatic results in one session, while take-home trays offer a gradual but highly effective improvement over one to two weeks.
4. How long does professional teeth whitening last?
With good oral hygiene and by limiting staining foods and drinks, professional whitening results typically last six months to two years. Touch-up treatments — either in-office or with take-home trays — can maintain your results long-term.
5. Is teeth whitening safe?
Yes. Professional teeth whitening is safe when performed under dental supervision. The most common side effect is temporary tooth sensitivity, which typically subsides within a few days. We take care to protect your gums during in-office treatment and provide guidance to minimize sensitivity.
6. Will teeth whitening work on crowns, veneers, or fillings?
Whitening agents only affect natural tooth enamel. Existing crowns, veneers, bonding, and fillings will not lighten. If you have visible restorations, Dr. Sadat will discuss how to achieve a uniform result — which may involve updating restorations after whitening.
7. Why should I choose professional whitening over store-bought products?
Professional whitening uses stronger, more effective formulas and is tailored to your specific needs. Custom trays ensure even coverage and minimize gum irritation. The results are faster, more dramatic, and more consistent than over-the-counter strips or gels.
8. Does teeth whitening hurt?
Some patients experience temporary sensitivity to cold during or after whitening treatment. This is normal and usually mild. We can provide desensitizing gel or recommend a sensitivity toothpaste to use before and after treatment to minimize discomfort.
9. What causes teeth to become stained or discolored?
Teeth can become discolored from external staining caused by coffee, tea, red wine, berries, and tobacco; from internal discoloration due to aging, certain medications like tetracycline, excessive fluoride exposure, or tooth injury; and from natural variations in tooth color from person to person.
10. How long does an in-office whitening appointment take?
An in-office whitening treatment typically takes about sixty to ninety minutes. The procedure involves protecting the gums, applying the whitening gel to the teeth, and activating it with a light or laser. Multiple applications may be performed in the same session for optimal results.
11. Can I whiten my teeth if I have sensitive teeth?
Yes, though extra precautions are taken. We may recommend a lower-concentration gel, shorter application times, or the use of desensitizing products before and after treatment. Let Dr. Sadat know about your sensitivity during your consultation so she can customize your approach.
12. How should I prepare for a teeth whitening appointment?
Have a professional cleaning done beforehand if possible — whitening is most effective on clean teeth. Brush your teeth before your appointment but avoid doing so immediately beforehand, as freshly brushed gums can be more sensitive. Avoid staining foods and drinks in the days leading up to your treatment.
13. What should I avoid after teeth whitening?
For the first twenty-four to forty-eight hours after whitening, avoid dark-colored foods and drinks such as coffee, tea, red wine, soy sauce, and berries, as well as tobacco products. This is known as the "white diet" period, during which the teeth are more porous and susceptible to restaining.
14. Is teeth whitening appropriate for teenagers?
Whitening is generally recommended for patients whose permanent teeth have fully erupted, typically around age fourteen to sixteen, and only after dental evaluation. Younger teens and children should avoid whitening, as their teeth are still developing.
15. How do I maintain my whitening results long-term?
Brush and floss consistently, use a whitening toothpaste for maintenance, drink staining beverages through a straw when possible, rinse with water after consuming dark foods or drinks, and schedule periodic touch-up whitening treatments. Following Dr. Sadat's post-whitening care instructions will extend your results significantly.