
Alright, let's chat about light and bleaching gels and why I chose a specific light source to pair with my hydrogen peroxide gels. This topic is pretty debated in the teeth whitening world. Some studies suggest that light can boost the effectiveness of bleaching gels, while others say it doesn't do much beyond dehydrating the teeth. This dehydration can make teeth look whiter right after the treatment, but as they rehydrate with saliva and water, the color can bounce back, leading to disappointment. Plus, dehydration can cause sensitivity, giving people a less-than-ideal whitening experience.
Studies on light-activated teeth whitening show mixed results. Some research supports the idea that hybrid LED lights (not UV) and laser lights can enhance whitening by speeding up the chemical reactions of bleaching agents. On the other hand, some studies argue these lights don't add much value and that the bleaching agents do most of the work on their own. Understanding the science behind light use in dental bleaching can help you navigate the marketing claims. For more reading, check out these links , Link 2
Here’s a simplified explanation of each type of light-activated bleaching process:
Photodegradation: This process is similar to how sunlight fades your clothes. Violet light breaks down the molecules that cause stains on your teeth. Products like HiSmileâ„¢ PAP+ combined with a violet light use this method to remove yellow stains. This gentle light source combined with PAP+ is perfect for my clients with sensitive teeth. The light has an exclusive acrylic tip MMO that brightens both dental arches simultaneously. It's made with certified equipment and developed with innovative tips that channel the focus of the violet light emitted by four violet LEDs.
Photothermal Reactions: This method uses light to heat up the bleaching gel, enhancing its effectiveness. It's like warming up food in a microwave—the heat helps the gel break down stains more efficiently. However, excessive heat can cause tooth sensitivity, so safer light wavelengths are used.
Photocatalytic Processes: This approach involves light-sensitive materials, such as titanium dioxide, to create a bleaching effect. These materials can work with any light source.
Photochemical Processes: Specific light wavelengths trigger chemical reactions that enhance bleaching in this method. An example is a reaction involving iron and light to boost bleaching effectiveness.
Photodynamic Processes: This method combines light and special dyes (photosensitisers) to speed up the bleaching process. BlancOneâ„¢ (Hydrogen Ulta, Enhance and maintenance) uses photosensitises to reduce the time the gel needs to stay on your teeth, minimizing the risk of sensitivity and other side effects.
And then there are some gels that don’t require light at all. All you need is a well-tested and researched hydrogen peroxide gel from a reputable dental supplier with a safe pH level, administered by a trained professional hygienist or dentist.
Understanding these processes can help you make an informed decision about teeth whitening treatments and sift through the marketing promises.
I have chosen the BlancOne professional in-chair hydrogen peroxide formulations from Italy, which use photodynamic technology to speed up the whitening process, reducing the time for tooth dehydration. It requires a blue LED light to activate the dye. After lots of research, I found the Beyond II Ultra, a universal blue light. This system is ISO-certified, FDA-registered, and compliant with EU Regulation 2017/745 (MDR) and CPNP, ensuring it meets safety protocols. This light not only activates the photosensitisers but also uses ultrasound to create tiny bubbles that burst, releasing energy that speeds up the whitening process. This means less chair time and less potential for sensitivity. It also has three settings to personalise the treatment if any sensitivity is present. Instead of a light head pointed at your teeth, this system has a light head that clips to the lip retractor, allowing you to move your head around for more comfort and a more precise light source.
It's worth noting that because teeth whitening lights are Class I medical devices, the FDA does not grant them approval. These devices must still be registered with the FDA to show they adhere to general safety and effectiveness regulations. Once a device has complied, it can legally call itself "FDA Registered" to assure consumers it meets requirements for this low-risk category.
When choosing a teeth whitening provider, be cautious of anyone claiming their non-branded whitening gel is FDA-approved. This is misleading, as the FDA only approves 10 percent carbamide peroxide, equivalent to 3.6 percent hydrogen peroxide. It has yet to classify whether professional strength gel is a cosmetic or a drug, believing that only professionals like dentists and hygienists should use higher concentrations due to their specialized training and adherence to governing body standards.
A common question is, do LED whitening lights cause cancer? The good news is that LED lights do not emit ultraviolet (UV) rays, which are the primary cause of light-induced skin cancer. Instead, LED lights use visible light, considered safe for such treatments. So, there's no evidence to suggest that LED whitening lights pose a cancer risk. For added protection, a professional whitening studio will always use a white fabric shield to reflect light off your face and safety glasses for eye protection.
So, do teeth whitening lights work? For some gels, they enhance and speed up the bleaching process; for others, the primary action still comes from the bleaching agents. If you’re considering in-office whitening, it's best to discuss it in detail with your dentist or hygienist. They’ll help you weigh the benefits and potential drawbacks, ensuring you get the bright smile you desire without unnecessary discomfort.
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