Frequently Asked Questions
How does the whitening treatment work?
First, the depressions of the teeth are taken using a “tray” filled with a special compound. After shaping the tray for upper and lower teeth, the whitening gel which contains an active ingredient hydrogen peroxide and photo-Ion are applied to the trays. The tray is inserted into the mouth and left in place for 15 minutes. A patented photo-initiator light is positioned between the upper and lower teeth and quickly activates the gel.
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 with each successive treatment until desired results are achieved.
What are the results for most people?
Although results vary, in our experience, they show that 90% to 95% of people experience some level of whitening. We have experienced up to 7 shades in one 15 minute whitening procedure.
How long do results last?
For most people, the results are long lasting. Exposure to coffees, teas, tobacco, red wines and certain other stain producing substances will eventually darken teeth again over time. Maintenance kits for home are recommended and provided to stop the teeth from staining.
Will fillings and crowns be affected by the whitening?
While hydrogen peroxide will have no negative effect on the integrity of fillings or crowns, the simple fact is that these materials will not whiten in any type of bleaching procedure. The same goes for composites, bridges, and veneers. Please consult your dentist.
Who should NOT whiten their teeth?
You should not use this product if:
- You are pregnant or nursing (consult with your doctor first).
- You have loose teeth, loose fillings, cavities, or gum disease.
- You are under 14 years old.
- You are allergic to any listed ingredient (hydrogen peroxide, glycerin).
Can tooth whitening hurt enamel?
No, this process will penetrate the tooth enamel but will not damage the enamel.
Are there any side effects?
On some occasions, you may feel a little tingling or perhaps a slight sensitivity. Teeth and/or gums may be sensitive for a short time after treatment. You may see temporary bleaching to the gums but this is normal and will disappear, usually in less than a day.
Is the iBrite light safe?
iBrite™ is completely safe, the light operates in a narrow wavelength range of the gentle blue spectrum and is perfectly safe for teeth and gums. There are no harmful UV or IR rays in this Diode light source.
People with tooth decay and with any type of gum disease should avoid this treatment.
Is this procedure done by a dentist?
NO. This whitening process is provided by professionals in the teeth whitening business and are not necessarily a dentist.
Don't you have to be a dentist to whiten teeth?
The FDA and ADA have approved the use of peroxide for over-the-counter use. Since our product is self-administered, it's really no different than what you can do at home. We never touch your mouth, give you dental advice, or present ourselves as dentists. We do recommend that you visit the dentist on a regular basis.
How long before I can eat or drink after my treatment?
The first 24 hours we would recommend avoiding coffee, tea, dark colored sodas, red wines, berries, candy, red sauces, beets, or any foods that have the propensity to stain. Remember if it leaves a tee shirt stained it will stain your teeth.
* Our procedure is self-administered.
** We do not practice dentistry. For any teeth related questions please consult your dentist.