FAQ
General
Q: Is whitening safe for your enamel?
A: Yes. Peroxide-based teeth whitening has been employed by dentists for over two decades, and over-the-counter products such as strips are used by millions of people worldwide. Some people do experience minor tooth sensitivity and gum irritation, but all side effects are temporary. Whitening is not recommended for anyone under 16 years of age and overuse of any product can affect enamel health. Use only as directed.
Q: I have caps on my front teeth, will whitening work on them?
A: Caps, crowns, and composites such as bonding do not whiten at the same rate as natural teeth, if at all. Many people have unnaturally white caps and crowns, so the goal is to bring your natural teeth closer to the color of your caps or crowns. As always, if you have detailed questions about your dental work, consult with your dentist.
Q: Will it make my teeth sensitive?
A: We have taken every precaution to reduce sensitivity during and after whitening. Our gel has the most neutral ph balance in the industry, and we added NutriLock Remineralization Paste as a finishing product. Despite these efforts, some people are prone to sensitivity during whitening. If you do experience sensitivity, apply NutriLock and discontinue whitening until the effects subside (usually 1-2 days).
Q: How can I keep my results?
A: Apply NutriLock as directed and stay away from staining foods and liquids for 24-36 hours after whitening. Also, continue to follow a healthy dental regimen including brushing twice a day, flossing, and regular check-ups with your dentist. It’s also a good idea to rinse with water after consuming a staining agent such as coffee or tea.
Q: Who can benefit from teeth whitening?
A: Almost anyone. However, teeth whitening is a dynamic process. The procedure may not be as effective for some as it is for others.
Q: What causes tooth staining?
A: There are many causes. The most common are aging and the consumption of staining agents such as tobacco, coffee, tea, red wine, and staining foods (mustard, blueberries, tomato sauce, etc.). A good rule of thumb is if it will stain your shirt it will stain your teeth. Many people have what we call "tooth formation" stains, caused by tetracycline, antibiotics, or excessive fluoride.
Q: I was given tetracycline when I was young, will it work for me? Will it at least lighten the color of my teeth?
A: Not in all cases. We recommend that you check with your dentist. But, many people with tetracycline stains have had their teeth whitened and were happy with the results. It depends on your expectations.
Q: Don't you have to be a dentist to whiten teeth?
A: No. The FDA and ADA have approved the use of peroxide for over-the-counter use and YOU perform the LightWhite process. Since our product is self-administered, procedurally it's 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.
Q: How can I keep my results?
A: By following our post process recommendations, including no staining agents for 24-36 hours. Also, continue to follow a healthy dental regimen including brushing twice a day, flossing, and regular check-ups with your dentist. It's also a good idea to rinse with water after consuming a staining agent.
Q: Who can benefit from teeth whitening?
A: Almost anyone. However, teeth whitening is a dynamic process. The procedure may not be as effective for some as it is for others. It's mostly about expectations. If your teeth are stained from years of coffee, tea, and tobacco, it is unrealistic to think your teeth will get as white as snow. Your WhiteSmileUSA Associate will go over expected results during pre-procedure. As always, check with your dentist if you are unsure about the efficacy of teeth whitening.
Q: Do you whiten the tops and bottoms?
A: Yes. Our unique tray is one of the only systems on the market that whitens the front and back of your teeth. Your teeth are translucent, and will appear lighter if the stains on the backs are removed. This is very important for smokers.
Q: What causes tooth staining?
A: There are many causes. The most common are aging and the consumption of staining agents such as tobacco, coffee, tea, red wine, and staining foods (mustard, blueberries, tomato sauce, etc.). A good rule of thumb is if it will stain your shirt it will stain your teeth. Many people have what we call "tooth formation" stains, caused by tetracycline, antibiotics, or excessive fluoride.
Q: How can I keep my results?
A: By following our post procedure recommendations, including no staining agents for 24-36 hours. Also, continue to follow a healthy dental regimen including brushing twice a day, flossing, and regular check-ups with your dentist. It's also a good idea to rinse with water after consuming a staining agent.
Q: How many shades will I move?
A: It depends on many factors. Our general rule of thumb is 2-5 shades with one 12-minute application, 4-10 with two 12-minute applications, and 6-14 with three 12-minute applications.
Q: I was given tetracycline when I was young, will it work for me? Will it at least lighten the color of my teeth (less gray)?
A: Not in all cases. We recommend you to check with your dentist. But, many people with tetracycline stains have had their teeth whitened and were happy with the results. It depends on your expectations.
Advanced Home Teeth Whitening System
Q: Does the One Bite Tray whiten the tops and bottoms?
A: Yes. This amazing tray is one of the only systems on the market that whitens the top and bottom, as well as the front and back of your teeth. Your teeth are translucent, and will appear lighter if the stains on the backs are removed. This is very important for smokers.
Q: How is Smooth Gel different that regular whitening gels?
A: Smooth Gel is a revolutionary formula that has removed the plastic suspension agents from the gel. The result is better whitening coverage on the tooth.
Q: What is Booster Gel?
A: Booster Gel is a single professional strength application of Smooth Gel that is included in the Advanced Whitening System. It is used first to jumpstart your results.
Q: What is the best way to apply NutriLock?
A: You can use your toothbrush, your finger, or your One Bite Tray. The key is to apply it to your teeth and let it dissolve without rinsing.
Q: How much gel do I put in the tray?
A: The best method is to place a small dab in each tooth cavity within the tray. DO NOT overfill your tray. More gel doesn’t equate to better results.
LightWhite System
Q: How is this different from BriteSmile and Zoom?
A: The WhiteSmileUSA process is very similar to BriteSmile and Zoom (peroxide agent with LED light), but there are a few key differences including percentage of peroxide (we use over the counter levels), issues with teeth sensitivity (we rarely have clients that experience sensitivity), and most importantly, price (we are hundreds less).
Q: Don't you have to be a dentist to whiten teeth?
A: No. The FDA has approved the use of peroxide for over-the-counter use and YOU perform the LightWhite process. Since our product is self-administered, procedurally it's 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.
Q: Does LightWhite cause sensitivity?
A: In most cases, no. Since our specially formulated peroxide gel is on your teeth for 15 minutes at a time, our clients rarely experience sensitivity. Less than 1% of our customers experience any discomfort.
Q: What is the LightWhite process?
A: After getting comfortable in the chair, you and the WhiteSmileUSA Associate (WSA) will agree on your "before" shade on the VitaPan tooth shader (industry standard shading guide). The WSA will then present you with your One Bite Tray to make your custom mold. After the LightWhite gel is placed in each cavity of the mouthpiece, you then "self-administer" the tray back in your mouth, put on your protective amber sunglasses, and the WSA will turn on the LightWhite whitening light for 15 minutes. It's that easy. After the process, you and the WSA both agree on the "after" shade on the VitaPan scale.
