FAQ

What are BriteSmile?

BriteSmile are a unique, integrated approach to cosmetic dentistry, offering combinations of dentistry-based treatments and proprietary at-home products that are custom-tailored by a dental professional for each and every client. The serenity of its spacious, relaxing interiors makes the customer feel as refreshed and revitalized as the treatments make you look. BriteSmile is the place to go to make the most of your smile.

How does BriteSmile compare to other whitening options?

BriteSmile offers the most advanced technology available in teeth whitening. Clinical studies have proven BriteSmile whitens an average of 8+ shades in one hour. Compare this to a leading tray system, which achieved only 6 shades and took weeks. In fact, many tray users never achieve even a few shades, as it is difficult to complete the regimen - night after night sleeping with trays full of bleaching gel, often accompanied by sensitivity and gum irritation. As you can see, BriteSmile is a tremendous value by comparison. Incidentally, the same study showed that leading whitening toothpaste was only able to achieve 1.5 shades of improvement after an entire month of use.

How does it work?

The dentist will first examine your teeth and gums for good oral health. Next as you relax in the chair, our patented whitening gel is applied to your teeth and the revolutionary, patented BriteSmile light will be positioned over your teeth to activate the gel. As you watch TV, listen to music or nap, your teeth will lighten and your natural whiteness will be restored in just one hour through a completely safe process of oxidation. Because of our unique chemistry and revolutionary blue wavelength light, a process that used to take many hours can now be accomplished in just one hour.

Is it safe and will it hurt?

The procedure is completely safe. The BriteSmile procedure will not soften enamel or existing fillings. The primary ingredient in the BriteSmile's gel is hydrogen peroxide, which has been safely used in teeth whitening for over 100 years and is recognized as an effective whitening ingredient by the dental community. The percentage of hydrogen peroxide used in BriteSmiles proprietary gel is only 15%, much lower than other whitening gels that often contain 35%-50% hydrogen peroxide. The majority of our clients experience no pain or sensitivity after the BriteSmile Professional Teeth Whitening treatment. A very small percentage of customers may experience a minor dull "ache" following the procedure. Taking some sort of analgesic almost always resolves the feeling. It is best to avoid very hot or very cold drinks for the first 24 hours if there is any tooth sensitivity.

How white will my teeth get?

In clinical studies, BriteSmile has been able to achieve over 8+ shades whiter on average. Our new and improved treatment, rolled out in June 2003, increases effectiveness to over 9 shades in just one hour. Your results of course will vary as your starting point may be different and everyone's teeth respond a little differently, but in virtually all cases, the results are dramatic. Ultimately, the goal will be to achieve your optimum, natural whiteness. During the consultation, the dentist will go over what you personally can expect for your individual situation. Severe discoloration can be treated and yield good results in many instances. However, the more difficult cases can sometimes require a more lengthy treatment than the standard one-hour treatment.

How long does it last?

The long-term results depend primarily on the individual. Certain habits, such as the use of tobacco products, drinking a lot of coffee, tea, dark soft drinks, and infrequent visits to the dentist for regular cleanings, etc., can work against the results. Regular professional care and use of the BriteSmile Professional Whitening Maintenance Products can help maintain your whiteness for 2 to 4 years. Some people may prefer to do the BriteSmile whitening treatment more frequently.

Is this procedure for everyone?

Virtually everyone wanting to whiten his or her teeth can benefit from using BriteSmile- including people with severe food, coffee, tobacco or tetracycline stains. Young adults 14+ are good candidates for the procedure, particularly if they have heavy staining after orthodontic treatment is complete and their braces are removed. BriteSmile recommends that you not do this process while nursing or pregnant. The dental examination by the BriteSmile dentist will determine if you are a good candidate for whitening at the time of your free consultation.