FAQ

Q: What is LightWhite Whitening from WhiteSmileUSA?
A: LightWhite is a "self-administered" bleaching process that bleaches the stains in your dentin and enamel, giving you a whiter smile in just minutes.

Q: Is it safe?
A: Yes. Peroxide-based teeth whitening has been employed by dentists for over two decades, and over-the-counter products such as Crest WhiteStrips are used by millions of people worldwide. Some of these systems cause more sensitivity than others, such as toothaches and gum irritation, but all side effects are temporary. We don't recommend the LightWhite process for anyone under 16 years of age or pregnant or lactating women.

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: I have caps on my front teeth, will LightWhite 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: How long will it last?
A: By following our post whitening instructions, your teeth will always be lighter than they were before. We generally recommend touch up applications every 6-9 months, in addition to our recommended maintenance program.

Q: What is the 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 silicon custom mouthpiece. 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. (link the page with all of this?)

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 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.