One of the pitfalls of whitening teeth with over-the-counter products is how long it can take to see results. Maybe you’re looking to lighten your smile before a big event or just don’t have the patience to wait several weeks, so what are your options? One of the more popular options is LED teeth whitening. Most people’s understanding of LED is for lighting around their house. So how well does LED teeth whitening work?
How Are LED Lights Used to Whiten Teeth?
Through other more traditional methods, whitening agents work at a given pace. The benefit of adding LED light into the process is that it speeds up the process of whitening the teeth. LED teeth whitening can whiten teeth by 6-8 shades in a single session.
LED teeth whitening treatment consists of three simple steps:
- Placing a whitening agent on the tooth surface
- Applying an LED light
- Letting the agent sit while absorbing the LED light
Why LED?
Concentrated light waves improve the effectiveness of whitening agents. Previously, UV light was the go-to light source for teeth whitening. Due to the undesirable effects of UV light exposure, dental professionals moved to LED as its replacement. LED light speeds up the chemical reaction between the whitening agent and the compounds responsible for the stain. Not only do LED lights speed up the reactions of whitening agents, but they do so without the heat of UV light. This additional heat often leads to uncomfortable tooth sensitivity.
Teeth Whitening 101
How does teeth whitening work? Compounds such as hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide contain volatile oxygen molecules. These molecules react with the surface stains on teeth and break apart the chemical bonds of stain-causing compounds bound to the enamel.
What Stains Teeth
Enamel discolors naturally over time due to exposure to various highly pigmented food and drinks.
Some of the most common culprits include:
- Tea
- Coffee
- Red wine
- Cola
- Fruit juices
- Tobacco
Mitigating Stains
After someone has had their teeth whitened, they can reduce their chances of severely staining their teeth again soon by:
- Limiting tooth-staining food or drinks
- Rinsing their mouth with water after eating or drinking something that may stain their teeth
- Using a straw when drinking cold drinks like cola or juice that may stain their teeth
- Chewing gum that contains xylitol, which can help to stimulate more saliva and cleanse the mouth
- Eating crunchy fruit and vegetables, like apples, carrots, and celery, can also boost saliva and scrub the tooth surface
- Brushing their teeth twice a day or as recommended by their dentist, especially with an electric toothbrush
- Seeing a dentist or hygienist as frequently as advised
Teeth Whitening in Fairfax, VA
Everyone wants a brighter, healthier-looking smile. After all, whiter teeth are associated with healthier teeth and better oral hygiene. If you’re considering whitening your teeth, call our office at 703-323-8200.
