Most of us start out with sparkling white teeth, thanks to their porcelain-like enamel surface. Composed of microscopic crystalline rods, tooth enamel is designed to protect the teeth from the effects of chewing, gnashing, trauma and acid attacks caused by sugar. But over the years enamel is worn down, becoming more transparent and permitting the yellow color of dentin – the tooth's core material – to show through.

During routine chewing, dentin remains intact while millions of micro-cracks occur in the enamel. It is these cracks, as well as the spaces between the crystalline enamel rods, that gradually fill up with stains and debris. As a result, the teeth eventually develop a dull, lackluster appearance.

Teeth whitening removes the stains and debris, leaving the enamel cracks open and exposed. Some of the cracks are quickly re-mineralized by saliva, while others are filled up again with organic debris.

Teeth whitening is one of the easiest and most gratifying techniques available today. We treat our patients with in-office whitening and take-home kits depending on the current status of the teeth and desired outcome. The in-office procedure is safe and produces immediate results, with the possibility of getting up to 10 shades lighter.

To find out more about our dentists, teeth whitening or the other dentistry services we provide, please call our Palo Alto dental office at 650.327.7525 or send an email to APPT@PaloAltoDentistry.com.

If you're located in the San Jose area, please visit our office website there at: www.SerenityDentistry.com or call 408.999.0444.