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Blue LED light teeth whitening treatments are becoming more and more popular, particularly online, but do teeth whitening lights work? These days, they can be purchased over the counter and without a visit to the dentist. Many users achieve visible teeth whitening results, however, it’s important to understand how effective teeth whitening lights are and what to expect.
How do blue light and LED teeth whitening work?
During the teeth whitening process, users will first apply a chemical agent to the teeth which has bleaching properties. A teeth whitening light is then used to activate the whitening agent and commence the chemical reaction.
During this chemical interaction, the teeth whitening light penetrates the whitening agent and tooth enamel which results in stains being lifted from your teeth.
Only certain whitening agents (or gels) such as Hydrogen Peroxide and Carbamide Peroxide based gels react when used with a tooth whitening light. Many ingredients including some Peroxide Free and PAP+ formulations may not actually provide better results when used with LED teeth whitening light. It’s important to consider whether a light is really needed or perhaps, part of a clever marketing claim.
How Does an LED Light Whiten Teeth?
LED teeth whitening lights work in combination with a chemical tooth whitening agent and will not change the colour of the teeth if used alone. Basically, the light simply acts as a catalyst to speed up the chemical reaction and in turn, the whitening process. Blue light LED teeth whiteners are usually safe when used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and are commonly used by Dental Practitioners for in chair teeth whitening treatments.
What are the different types of teeth whitening lights?
There are a variety of teeth whitening light options ranging from over-the-counter LED lights to those used by a Dental Practitioner. All vary greatly in time, budget, and effectiveness.
Primarily, there are three types of lights used in whitening:
UV (ultraviolet) light –
heats up the whitening agent, usually only performed in dental clinics to maximise results and control the risk of burning.
LED (light emitting diode) –
produces blue or purple lights without heat. Most online or over-the-counter teeth whitening kits with lights contain an LED light. Some dental clinics may use an LED light. The effectiveness depends on many factors including the whitening agent used with the light.
Halogen light –
emits heat from the centre of the metal tungsten light. Although the least common, it will again only be performed in dental clinics to minimise any risks. Results are as effective as UV lights.
Do I need to use a teeth whitening light?
Many users may achieve excellent results with over-the-counter teeth whitening light kits, however, not all teeth whitening gels need a teeth whitening light. In fact, although some brands claim otherwise, many would yield similar results if no light was used at all (gel and trays only). A quality, reliable whitening gel for use at home shouldn’t require the use of an LED to provide results.
For best results, teeth whitening with a light should be performed by a Dental Practitioner using a high-powered UV, LED or halogen light whilst a professional Teeth Whitening Gel used in Custom Fit Whitening trays is the gold standard for home teeth whitening. The House of Mouth™ offers a range of Whitening Gels which simply require Teeth Whitening Trays for use.
4 Things to Consider When Looking At Teeth Whitening Lights
Before purchasing a teeth whitening LED light or kit consider:
1. Whitening Tray –
the fit and type of tray included. Avoid one size fits all teeth whitening trays as they cannot accurately control the position of the whitening agent.
2. Whitening Product –
will the whitening gel or product provided benefit from the use of whitening light? Is a teeth whitening light really needed?
3. Safety and Quality –
This is paramount – have the product’s claims been trialled and tested? Does it meet your individual needs or is it a one size fits all? What happens if you do not achieve the results you were hoping for?
4. Cost –
As the old saying goes, you get what you pay for. The cheapest and most convenient may not always be the best option for your individual situation.
Our Professional Teeth Whitening Advice
There are a lot of teeth whitening light and kit options, however, The House of Mouth™ believes in the power of two: Keeping it both simple and professional!
Keep It Simple!
We recommend keeping things safe by using high quality Custom Fit Trays (perfectly fitted to your individual mouth) with a Dentist Recommended Whitening Gel which doesn’t require the use of a separate LED light. There is no need for the purchase or use of a teeth whitening LED light with these gels as they are so effective.
Professional Advice = Gold Standard
Given the mixed results from studies regarding the effectiveness of Teeth Whitening Lights and to ensure great results we recommend speaking with a Dental Practitioner about your options. Teeth whitening performed by or on advice of a Dental Practitioner is the gold standard in teeth whitening.
You can Contact Us to discuss your individual needs.
Ready to Start Teeth Whitening?
The House of Mouth™ offers a large range of professional whitening gels – all gels do not require LED lights, they are simply applied to your teeth whitening trays. Almost all whitening gels we stock have been rigorously tested for both safety and effectiveness and that means you can count on safe, stunning results. Simply Select Your Whitening Gel and Whitening Tray and you’re set to go!
Ready to start whitening, explore our premium Custom Fit Whitening Range today or Contact Us to have your questions answered.
(07) 55 34 8603
