Teeth Whitening in Cupertino, CA

Teeth whitening (or bleaching) is the simplest, non-invasive dental treatment used to improve your smile, increase your self-confidence, and brighten the color of natural tooth enamel.

Dr. Craig Mitchell and Dr. Rudy DIttrich in Cupertino, have been offering teeth whitening services for over 30 years. They understand that having whiter teeth is the number one aesthetic concern of most patients, and there are a number of ways to whiten teeth. 

How Does Tooth Whitening Work?

The most popular method they have found for their patients is using a home tooth whitening system using custom-made trays that can make a dramatic difference in your smile.  Since teeth whitening only works on natural tooth enamel, it is important to evaluate the potential replacement of any old fillings or crowns, that might be adjacent to the teeth they are whitening. Replacement of any old restorations will typically be done after the bleaching so they will match the newly bleached teeth.

While teeth whitening is not considered permanent, the results can last up to two years or longer, depending upon your oral habits such as coffee, red wine, tea, or smoking.  A touch-up may be needed every several months or years, depending on your particular circumstances.

Teeth whitening using hydrogen peroxide gel is considered a safe procedure, especially when professionally monitored, it can provide great results. The convenience of using the trays make this a desirable option for many patients.

Using custom-made trays helps to minimize sensitivity or irritated gums that can come from using some over-the-counter products. 

Some common reasons for teeth whitening:

• Fluorosis (excessive fluoride exposure at an early age during tooth development).
• Normal wear of the outer tooth layer (enamel) can expose the yellower dentin underneath.
• Stained teeth due to certain medications (commonly tetracycline if given during tooth development, etc.).
• Yellow, brown stained teeth from smoking, age, or coffee.

What does teeth whitening involve?

This type of teeth whitening usually requires two visits.  At your first appointment, we will take impressions of your teeth to fabricate custom, clear, flexible, plastic trays.

At your second appointment, you will try on the trays to make sure they fit comfortably, and adjustments will be made if necessary.  The trays are worn with a special whitening solution put into the tray, either twice a day for 30 minutes or overnight for a couple of weeks depending on the degree of staining and desired level of whitening.  It is normal to experience mild tooth sensitivity temporarily during the time you are whitening your teeth, but it will subside shortly after you have stopped bleaching.

It is suggested that you brush your teeth and floss prior to inserting the trays to allow maximum contact of the gel with the teeth. 

A second type of teeth whitening involves using thin strips with a mild peroxide gel on them. Because this is not monitored by a dentist, the results are a little less predictable. While this process is less expensive, results can sometimes be somewhat variable and may not touch all the surfaces of the teeth, especially if you have rotated, crowded or missing teeth. 

You will receive additional care instructions for your teeth and trays, and it is encouraged to visit us regularly to help maintain a beautiful, healthy, white smile.

Because using an abrasive toothpaste can contribute to wearing down the enamel, it is advised NOT to use some of the over-the-counter “smoker’s toothpaste” that is said to remove stains. The process of removing stains can abrade your teeth and wear off the enamel layer faster.

How would I know if I am a candidate for teeth whitening?

While most people are candidates, if you are missing multiple teeth, or have dental crowns and bridges, it might require special treatment. Typically, we would wait until someone is a teenager before making any trays because the mouth is growing and the teeth shifting during the adolescent years. The best time to consider bleaching your teeth is immediately after having a professional cleaning because your teeth will be their cleanest and absorb the whitening gel the fastest.

If you have unsightly stains, a safe ADA-approved teeth whitening procedure might be for you.! If you live in Sunnyvale, Saratoga, Cupertino, or the San Jose area and want a brighter smile, come see the cosmetic experts in Cupertino! Call us today at 408-255-9422. 

Give our office a call today to find out which teeth whitening options would be best for you! Call 408-255-9422 TODAY!

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Trusted Online Google Reviews:

“Dr. Mitchell is without a doubt an excellent Dentist, the very best I have had in years. His staff is wonderful and really cares. So nice to go there without being fearful of the “Dentist”. – Joanie Roberson

“My Dentist, Dr. Craig Mitchell, is the ultimate best!! He has been my Dentist for over 30 + years and I can truly attest for his great, high-quality work, and professionalism. He is very friendly, welcoming, gentle, kind, and an overall great person! If you are looking for a new dentist, you won’t be disappointed.!”  -  Lissenia M.