What is Light Smile Express and how does it differ from other whitening systems?

Light Smile Express is a tooth whitening system that combines all of the universally accepted techniques of tooth whitening into a single, proven system. Unlike take-home products that rely only on hydrogen peroxide and tooth contact time, Light Smile Express also incorporates an activating light and a unique gel application to deliver fast and highly effective results.  While take home products require days of applications in order to see a result, one Light Smile Express treatment will whiten your teeth two to six shades, guaranteed in less than 30 minutes.

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.

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, it is also true those persons who have whitened their teeth develop a greater awareness of their teeth and become more compliant with their oral hygiene routine.

Is Whitening Safe?

Tooth whitening is the number one patient-requested cosmetic procedure in dentistry today. Since its introduction, millions of patients have undergone some form of tooth bleaching. There have been numerous studies over the years showing that hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide based tooth whitening systems are safe and effective.

How does Light Smile Express teeth whitening work?

There are two types of tooth stains “extrinsic”, those stains that are on the surface of the tooth, and “intrinsic”, those stains that are on the inside of the tooth and show through the enamel as discoloration. While whitening toothpastes and chewing gums may be effective for removing extrinsic stains, they are not designed to work inside the tooth to remove the darker, more challenging intrinsic stains. Light Smile Express’s special gel is the most effective material for removing the internal stains. When applied to the tooth, the gel breaks down into water and radical hydroxyl ions. As these ions work their way through the dentinal tubules and into the tooth, they attach themselves to stain particles and effectively break the stains apart. With the stains removed the teeth appear whiter and brighter.

What results can I expect?

Individual results will vary depending on the consumer’s habits and their unique dental make-up, but it is safe to say that the initial results will last the average consumer up to one year. 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, the consumer can simply repeat teeth whitening 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.

Are there adverse 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, which typically goes away within 24-48 hours after discontinuing the whitening, can be minimized with a desensitizing agent like potassium nitrate, or a common, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory agent.  In rare cases, some consumers may also experience gingival irritation. This too is temporary and will go away once the whitening is stopped.

Will my fillings and crowns be affected by the whitening?

While hydrogen or carbamide 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.

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 like bonding and veneers.

The Truth About Teeth Whitening