If your smile looks a little dull from coffee, tea, red wine, or just everyday living, professional teeth whitening is a simple way to refresh your look. At Mark Michna, DDS in Greenbrae, we make brightening easy—and even offer free take-home whitening for patients who complete their cleaning, exam, and X-rays (ask us for details at your visit).
Why Teeth Discolor
Most people experience staining or yellowing over time due to foods and drinks, tobacco, medications, or natural aging. Professional whitening targets these extrinsic stains to lift your shade several levels—without the guesswork of over-the-counter products.
Your Whitening Options Here
- Whitening options In In-office treatment and take-home trays
- Smile refinements, if needed
Whitening changes tooth enamel color, but restorations (like bonding, veneers, and tooth-colored fillings) won’t lighten. If you’re planning a smile makeover, we’ll whiten first, then match any new cosmetic work to your brighter shade for a seamless look.
Good Candidates for Whitening
Most adults with healthy teeth and gums can whiten safely. At your visit, we’ll check for cavities, gum inflammation, and existing restorations to confirm whitening is a good fit—or suggest another path (such as porcelain veneers for intrinsic discoloration or shape changes).
What to Expect at Your Visit
- Exam & cleaning to remove plaque/tartar and confirm you’re ready to whiten.
- Personalized recommendations for gel strength and wear time.
- Follow-up tips to maintain results—like smart beverage habits (sip, don’t soak), and routine hygiene visits. You can request an appointment online or call our Greenbrae team directly.
Sensitivity & Safety Tips
A brief, temporary “zing” can occur when whitening. Use a soft-bristle brush, avoid very hot/cold drinks right after sessions, and let us know if sensitivity persists; we can adjust your plan or add desensitizing strategies. If you’re considering future Invisalign®, we’ll discuss timing so you can whiten at the right stage of treatment.
When Whitening Isn’t Enough
Deep, internal discoloration or chips and shape issues may call for veneers, bonding, or tooth-colored fillings placed after whitening to match your new shade. We’ll outline options, costs, and timelines so you can choose confidently. Financing is available, and our team works with many insurance plans. Ready to brighten your smile? Contact Mark Michna, DDS, in Greenbrae to schedule your visit.
