Professional Teeth Whitening South Pasadena, 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 Huntington Dental Excellence in South Pasadena and the surrounding area. Teeth whitening can boost self-confidence and play a role in successful business and social interactions. Huntington Dental Excellence can help patients learn whether they are a good candidate for this procedure and what results they can expect. Contact our office at (626) 657-6335 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.”
Peroxide in Teeth Whitening
According to the U.S. Library of Medicine, teeth whitening uses hydrogen peroxide to cause a chemical reaction that removes stains. Hydrogen peroxide has been an ingredient in teeth-whitening and oral care products for decades. It is the primary active ingredient in many at-home and professional whitening products.
This chemical compound reacts with and oxidizes the double bonds between the stain and the tooth's surface to lighten discoloration. Over-the-counter whitening products use 3 to 20% peroxide-based bleaching agents. Professional teeth whitening is more effective because the bleaching solution is much stronger, containing 15% to 43% peroxide.
“Professional teeth whitening is more effective because the bleaching solution is much stronger, containing 15% to 43% peroxide.”
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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. What is peroxide's role in teeth whitening?
Q. How does laser teeth whitening work?
Q. Why should I get my teeth whitened professionally?
People Also Ask
Q. What are teeth whitening options at the dentist?
Q. What are some examples of purely cosmetic procedures?
Q. What are the benefits of teeth whitening at a dentist's office?
Why Candidates Should Consult a Dentist
Over-the-counter teeth whitening products, including toothpaste, strips, and mouthwash, are less expensive options than professional care. However, they are also much less effective. Many consumers are disappointed with these products, which have a much lower peroxide concentration and must be used for several months. In some cases, people have damaged their teeth from overusing these products. Final results are also often not as bright nor as long-lasting as in-office treatments.
“Many consumers are disappointed with these products, which have a much lower concentration of peroxide and must be used for several months.”
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 Huntington Dental Excellence can help. Call us today at 626-657-6335 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2025
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2025
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2025
About our business, license, and website security
- Huntington Dental Excellence was established in 1987.
- We accept the following payment methods: American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa
- We serve patients from the following counties: Los Angeles County
- We serve patients from the following cities: South Pasadena, Pasadena, Alhambra, Monterey Park, Highland Park, San Gabriel, San Marino, Rosemead, Altadena, Temple City and Los Angeles
- CA (License #35999). View License Information and Specifics
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