Teeth Whitening

Nancy Trinh DDS

General Dentist & Cosmetic Dentist located in San Jose, CA

If you have yellow, stained, or discolored teeth, teeth whitening can transform your smile, boosting your confidence and self-esteem. At Trinh Dental in San Jose, California, Nancy Trinh, DDS, Tracy Trinh, DDS, and the team offer in-office teeth whitening using the Philips Zoom system. To schedule an appointment, book online, or call the office today.

Teeth Whitening Q&A

Why are my teeth yellow and stained?

Yellow teeth occur naturally due to aging. As you get older, the outer layer of your teeth (enamel) becomes thin and wears away. This allows the inner layer of your teeth (dentin) to peek through. Because dentin is yellow, it makes your teeth appear the same way.

Other causes of yellow and stained teeth include:

  • Eating foods that stain like berries or tomato-based sauce
  • Drinking dark beverages like red wine, cola, or coffee
  • Taking medication that contains tetracycline
  • Tobacco products

You might also experience yellow or stained teeth if you don’t brush and floss regularly. Without regular preventive maintenance, plaque and food particles can build-up on the surfaces of your teeth.

What is teeth whitening?

Teeth whitening is a type of cosmetic dentistry used to eliminate stains and discoloration from the surface of your teeth. At Trinh Dental, the team uses the Philips Zoom teeth whitening system. 

Zoom uses a light-activated whitening gel that contains hydrogen peroxide. Following application, hydrogen peroxide breaks down and turns into hydroxyl radicals. These radicals enter your enamel and dentin, whitening stains without damaging your tooth’s structure. Zoom can make your teeth between 6-12* shades lighter during just one in-office appointment.

How does teeth whitening work?

Teeth whitening with Philips Zoom takes between 60-90 minutes. Prior to treatment, the team at Trinh Dental covers your tongue and gums with a protective rubber dam. Afterward, they carefully apply the whitening solution to the surfaces of each of your teeth. 

The whitening solution sits for 10-15 minutes. Then, your provider points a special light at your teeth that triggers a chemical reaction. They repeat these same steps several times until you achieve your desired results. 

Are the results of teeth whitening permanent?

The results of teeth whitening aren’t permanent, but they do last an average of four to six months. To maintain your shiny white smile, the team at Trinh Dental recommends:

  • Brushing and flossing daily
  • Quitting smoking
  • Getting a dental cleaning every six months
  • Drinking dark beverages with a straw

Once you notice stains beginning to form on your teeth, it’s time to schedule a follow-up teeth whitening appointment.

If you dream of having a brilliantly white smile, schedule a teeth whitening appointment at Trinh Dental. Book a consultation online, or call the office today.

*Individual results may vary