Options for tooth whitening in San Francisco

Dr. Leo Arellano and his friendly team are dedicated to providing safe and effective dental care for people from Daly City, San Francisco, and throughout the Bay Area. They offer a wide range of cosmetic services in addition to preventive and restorative dental care.
Teeth whitening is safe
Dr. Arellano performs a thorough oral examination prior to treatment. If gum disease or other dental issues are present, they will need to be treated before the teeth can be whitened. The doctor will advise the patient on the best course of treatment to meet their goals. Whether an in-office or at-home treatment is chosen, oversight by a dental professional ensures patient safety and satisfaction.
Some stains respond to treatment better than others
Yellow discoloration responds very well to the whitening agent, brownish stains are slower and more difficult to lighten, and gray-blue stains may not respond at all. Deep intrinsic stains such as those caused by tetracycline may be better treated with bonding or dental veneers.
Whitening is not permanent, but the results can be touched up or retreated
Richly colored foods and beverages will cause the brightness to fade after some time. However, touch-ups at home can help maintain the results. Brushing or at least rinsing after eating, consuming beverages through a straw, and good oral hygiene practices will help preserve the brightness of the smile.
Existing dental restorations do not respond to whitening
Bridges, bonding, veneers, crowns, and fillings are not affected by the whitening agents. Although the treatment will not damage existing dental work, it will not whiten it either. If work has been done on the visible teeth, a whitening treatment could make the teeth brighter than the dental materials, resulting in a two-toned smile. Patients could choose a different form of smile enhancement such as porcelain veneers, or opt to have their visible restorations replaced after the whitening treatment.
The benefits of a brighter smile
A bright smile radiates warmth, vitality, and youthfulness. When someone has a bright smile, they are perceived as someone who is healthy and takes care of themselves. Although a whiter smile has a great effect of the way others view someone, the most important benefit is the boost in confidence and self-esteem patients feel when they look in the mirror.
Call 415-881-4343 today to schedule an appointment with the dental team that gives Daly City dazzling smiles.