Professional teeth whitening has smiles gleaming in San Francisco
Your smile makes a powerful first impression, and it is often your most memorable characteristic. Dr. Terri Nguyen and Dr. Laura Huynh keep smiles sparkling with professional teeth whitening. Patients in the San Francisco area trust West Portal Dentistry for safe, low-sensitivity treatment and excellent whitening results.
Types and causes of dental stains
There are basically three types dental stains:
Extrinsic stains are pigments that settle into the outer layer of tooth structure from:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Cola
- Red wine
- Dark berries
- Smoking or smokeless tobacco
Basically, any food or beverage that might stain a white tee-shirt will discolor teeth. Good daily hygiene removes some of it, but stains work their way deep into microscopic tubules in enamel.
Intrinsic stains occur when the inner structure of teeth darken from:
- Excess fluoride
- Tetracycline (an antibiotic)
- Trauma
As tooth enamel thins over time, the yellowish layer of dentin underneath becomes visible, resulting in age-related discoloration.
An effective combination approach
Drug stores aisles are full of products that claim to whiten teeth. They may provide some improvement. However, they could contain abrasives that scratch enamel, actually contributing to dingy tooth color. No over-the-counter remedy can match the whitening power of professional treatment, for effective results on all three types of stains. Plus, you have oversight from a team of trained dental professionals.
The dentists at West Portal Dentistry use a combination approach for the whitest smiles with the lowest risk of sensitivity. KöR deep bleaching treatment begins with an in-office laser whitening procedure that takes about an hour. The patient is also provided with custom-fit trays for at-home whitening. Trays are filled with prescription-strength gel and worn overnight. A special buffering ingredient ensures comfort. Once desired results are achieved, trays can be worn periodically to keep the smile bright.
Teeth Whitening FAQs
What is the KoR Deep Bleaching System?
The KoR Deep Bleaching System is a professional tooth whitening treatment that combines in-office bleaching with the use of custom whitening trays at home. It is designed to deliver dramatic, long-lasting whitening results, even for more stubborn stains like those caused by tetracycline.
How does KoR whitening work?
KoR uses a unique combination of bleaching gels and delivery systems that penetrate deep into the tooth’s enamel to dissolve and remove staining molecules. After an initial in-office whitening session, you then continue the process at home using custom-fitted trays for optimal results.
Is KoR whitening safe for my teeth?
The KoR system is uniquely formulated to minimize sensitivity and safeguard your teeth. Unlike some over-the-counter products, it is not harmful and has been proven to be safe for your enamel when used as directed by your dental team at West Portal Family Dentistry.
Who can benefit from the KoR system?
Almost anyone looking to whiten their teeth can benefit from our professional whitening services. Whether you have minor discoloration or deep, stubborn stains, the KoR system helps. It is often effective in cases where other whitening methods have failed.
How long do the results last?
With proper care and maintenance, KoR whitening results last for years! Regular at-home touch-ups with your custom trays can help preserve your bright, beautiful smile long-term.
Will the whitening process hurt?
Not at all! KoR is specifically designed to minimize sensitivity, making it a comfortable experience for most patients. If you have particularly sensitive teeth, we can offer additional strategies to ensure your comfort.
How soon will I see results?
You will likely notice some improvement right after your in-office treatment, but the full transformation occurs after completing the at-home whitening phase. By the end of the process, your smile is often significantly brighter and whiter.
How can I get started with KoR whitening?
Getting started is easy! Schedule a consultation with your dentist at West Portal Family Dentistry to see if KoR is right for you. They will determine if this treatment is appropriate for both your needs and budget. Call (415) 604-9292 to request a visit to our San Francisco, California, area office
