Professional Teeth Whitening San Jose, CA
One of today's most popular dental procedures is teeth whitening. From couples planning a wedding to job-seekers hoping to impress, people of all ages and lifestyles seek brighter smiles. Professional teeth whitening is a treatment, or series of treatments, that dentists perform in-office to eliminate stains and brighten yellowed or discolored teeth.
Professional teeth whitening is available at NuSmile Dental & Orthodontics in San Jose and the surrounding area. Teeth whitening can boost self-confidence and play a role in successful business and social interactions. NuSmile Dental & Orthodontics can help patients learn whether they are a good candidate for this procedure and what results they can expect. Contact our office at (408) 791-2800 to make an appointment.
Understanding Teeth Whitening
As people age, their teeth often become discolored. Staining food and beverages, nicotine and tobacco use, and certain prescription medications can cause teeth to appear yellow and less healthy. These stains can be extrinsic or intrinsic, causing the yellow dentin beneath tooth enamel to show through minuscule cracks on the tooth's surface.
Fortunately, professional teeth whitening can help teeth become three to eight shades whiter than before. Teeth whitening can provide optimal results in a short amount of time when performed by a professional. Having professional care and consultation is the safest and most effective way to achieve a whiter, more beautiful smile.
“Fortunately, professional teeth whitening can help teeth become three to eight shades whiter than before.”
Candidacy for Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening is a viable treatment option for many people. However, patients should have a consultation to determine whether they are an ideal candidate for this treatment. Anyone who is allergic to peroxide, the whitening agent, should not get this treatment. We also do not recommend teeth whitening for pregnant or lactating women.
Candidates should be in good oral health, without gum disease or worn down enamel. Cavities should get treated before people can consider getting their teeth whitened. Teeth whitening works best for people with yellow teeth, but some patients with brown teeth have also received positive results. Gray or purple discoloration indicates trauma or decay, which cannot be fixed by teeth whitening.
“Anyone who is allergic to peroxide, the whitening agent, should not get this treatment.”
The Difference Between Bleaching and Whitening
Both at-home and in-office teeth whitening solutions contain peroxide, which is also in bleach and hair lightening products. It offers the same lightening effects as chlorine bleach without the dangers and is the reason many people refer to whitening as "bleaching." Among dental professionals, whitening typically refers to the removal of surface stains, while bleaching goes a little further to lighten the tooth enamel itself.
According to WebMD, over-the-counter teeth whitening products use a low concentration of peroxide, typically from 3% to 20%. Dentists use solutions with a higher concentration, usually between 15% and 42%. The higher concentration used by dentists means that the process of teeth whitening can be accomplished much faster.
“Among dental professionals, whitening typically refers to the removal of surface stains, while bleaching goes a little further to lighten the tooth enamel itself.”
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Results of Laser Teeth Whitening
Some dentists offer laser teeth whitening. This method involves applying a gel with peroxide, then heating it with light. In reviewing studies on this method, the American Dental Association finds that results vary. Some research shows that immediate results are better due to laser whitening. Other studies suggest that tooth sensitivity may be more prevalent with this method. Patients should discuss this option with a dentist.
“Some research shows that immediate results are better due to laser whitening.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. How effective is professional teeth whitening treatment?
Q. Who should receive professional teeth whitening?
Q. Are at-home teeth whitening treatments effective?
Q. Is teeth whitening the same as teeth bleaching?
Q. How does laser teeth whitening work?
People Also Ask
Q. What are the benefits of teeth whitening at a dentist's office?
Q. How should you choose the right treatment and cosmetic dentist?
Q. What are the benefits of teeth whitening?
Q. How should I go about finding a restorative dentist?
Cautions Against Teeth Whitening At Home
While teeth whitening is also possible at home through over-the-counter kits, it is important to approach with caution. Some of these whitening kits contain questionable ingredients that can do more harm than good. While do-it-yourself teeth whitening at home sounds convenient, many of these tips can cause serious problems and do not produce effective results.
Since our team supervises professional teeth whitening, we can use a stronger bleaching solution. We can also ensure that sensitive gums do not become more irritated while producing safe and reliable results. Ultimately, professional teeth whitening produces the most precise and effective results.
“Ultimately, professional teeth whitening produces the most precise and effective results.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Will my insurance pay for treatment?
A. Professional teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure. Because the process is not vital to a patient's health, many insurance carriers do not cover it. Always consult your provider before making a decision.
Q. How long does teeth whitening last?
A. Depending on the whitening solution, how it is administered, and the patients themselves, results will vary. The effects of OTC whitening products will typically last several weeks to several months, while professional teeth whitening usually lasts several years.
Q. How does teeth whitening work?
A. A dentist provides professional teeth whitening by applying a peroxide solution to teeth. The peroxide penetrates the enamel and begins oxidizing tooth molecules. This process causes teeth to reflect more light and appear colorless or white.
Q. Does teeth whitening hurt?
A. Professional teeth whitening administered by a dentist does not hurt because trays are custom-made to fit a patient's teeth. OTC products use a tray that is the same for each consumer. That means they cannot control the amount of peroxide used or the possibility of the solution leaking onto the gums and causing irritation.
Q. Will whitening remove smoking stains?
A. Most stains caused by smoking can be removed by professional teeth whitening. Every patient is different, however, and some teeth may not respond as expected. In cases such as these, patients may want to consider veneers or other alternatives.
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Cosmetic Dentistry Terminology
Call Us Today
Professional teeth whitening is a safe and effective way to achieve a whiter, brighter smile. Our team at NuSmile Dental & Orthodontics can help. Call us today at 408-791-2800 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2026
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2026
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2026
About our business, license, and website security
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