Frequently asked questions

Why should I consider having a whiter smile?
What causes tooth discoloration?
Is teeth whitening really safe?
How does the Laser whitening process work?
What occurs during whitening?
How long will it take until my teeth are whiter?
How long will the results last?
What are the results for most people?
Are there any adverse side effects?
Will fillings and crowns be affected by the whitening?
Is whitening for everyone?
Do people need touch-ups?
Can I whiten my teeth while I'm pregnant?
My teeth are so sensitive. What can I do?

Why should I consider having a whiter smile?

Studies have shown that not only do people who have whiter teeth look younger than people who don't, but that there is a correlation between high self-esteem and a white, confident smile. In addition to the aesthetic reasons.

What causes tooth discoloration?

There are many reasons for discolored teeth. Aging and the on-going ingestion of coffee, tea, cola, red wine, tobacco products, curries, etc can lead to the staining of the teeth. The ingestion of tetracycline and excessive fluoride frequently causes such severe staining that extended treatment lengths and perhaps more aggressive means may be required. Traumatized and non-vital teeth that are discolored can also be whitened, but usually require a more invasive procedure performed by a dentist.

Is teeth whitening really safe?

Yes, years of teeth whitening treatments in dental offices have proven that it is safe. Occasionally, problems such as teeth sensitivity (mild or moderate) or gum irritations may be experienced. If this happens, the frequency of use should be reduced. People who do experience teeth sensitivity will notice that it normally subsides quickly following completion of treatment.

How does the Laser whitening process work?

We use a premolded mouthpiece with a special formulated whitening gel. The whitening gel which contains an active ingredient hydrogen peroxide and photo-Ion are applied to the mouthpiece. The mouthpiece is inserted into the mouth by the customer and left in place for 15 minutes while under the LED light.

What occurs during whitening?

During the teeth whitening process, the active ingredient in the gel, hydrogen peroxide, is broken down to water and oxygen, oxygen enters the tooth enamel. This bleaches embedded discolored substances (stains). The structure of the tooth is not changed; only the tooth enamel stain is changed and becomes a lighter and whiter shade.

How long will it take until my teeth are whiter?

Whitening results often become apparent during the first treatment. Typically, the whitening effect becomes even more evident after a second treatment. Teeth will continue to whiten, to a degree, with each successive treatment.

How long will the results last?

Individuals results will vary depending on the consumer's habits, their unique dental make-up, age, and genetics. it is safe to say that the initial results will last the average consumer up to two years. Over time, and for the very same reasons that caused the teeth to discolor in the first place, the consumer will notice their teeth darkening again. When this happens, your client can simply repeat their salon or spa procedure and the teeth will be restored back to their brilliant white color.

Consumers who smoke cigarettes or drink heavy quantities of dark, acidic liquids like coffee, tea, red wine, colas, etc. will have to touch up their teeth more often than people who do not.

What are the results for most people?

Although results vary, in our experience backed by studies, they show that 90% to 95% of people experience some level of whitening. We have experienced up to 7 shades in one 15 minute Salon/Spa Cosmetic Whitening procedure

Are there any adverse side effects?

There are relatively few side effects from tooth whitening.

A very small percentage of consumers may experience some sensitivity during a whitening procedure. This discomfort typically goes away within 24-48 hours after discontinuing the whitening, is minimized with our technology because we use a smaller percentage of peroxide and our treatment last less than thirty minutes. This minimizes long term exposure to the gel.

Will fillings and crowns be affected by the whitening?

While hydrogen peroxide will have no negative effect on the integrity of fillings and crowns, the simple fact is that these materials will not whiten in any type of bleaching procedure. However, the peroxide will remove staining from composite materials. You need to whiten your natural teeth completely before having restorations. If you have caps and fillings they will appear yellow after whitening, so keep this in mind! There will be such a difference that you will have to have them replaced. On the other hand, restorations that are old, yet white, will match better after whitening.

Is whitening for everyone?

Pregnant and nursing mothers, children under the age of 14, and diabetics should consult their physician prior to undergoing any whitening procedure. Consumers with severely tetracycline stained teeth may opt for a more aggressive cosmetic procedure.

Do people need touch-ups?

After initial treatment, some people do touch-ups every 3-6 months based on the amount of stain producing substances to which they are exposed.

Can I whiten my teeth while I'm pregnant?

There has not been sufficient testing done on the effects of using a peroxide gel while pregnant. Therefore, we recommend that you not use any whitening system, even though peroxide is found in the breast milk of lactating mothers.

My teeth are so sensitive. What can I do?

Most will experience some level of sensitivity. We suggest that you purchase a toothpaste which contains 5% potassium nitrate such as Sensodyne, and rub it on your gums and rinse 3-5 times a day. The teeth may seem more sensitive the first two minutes, but after leaving it on the teeth there will be little to no sensitivity for several hours.