JMISKO | The Whitening Process

The Whitening Process

The Whitening Accelerator Light

Professional whitening is best performed with light technology. Light technology is referred to as photopolymerization and was first approved by the FDA for teeth whitening in 1996. Our LED lamp uses a cold blue light with a wavelength of 500 nanometers. The light technology system works by accelerating the chemical reaction, rapidly speeding up the treatment time. During a treatment the accelerator light is placed directly in front of the customer's open mouth for 15 minutes. Our lamp is the perfect wavelength of light and is designed to accelerate the whitening process of our teeth whitening gel.

Impression Trays and Teeth Whitening Gel

The procedure is very simple. First, we create a mold of the customers teeth using a silicone impression tray. Second, whitening gel is then added to the customized mouth tray. A custom mold of the Customers teeth is important so the whitening agent is able to remain in direct contact with each tooth, allowing for more accurate and uniform whitening with less chance of seepage and gum irritation. Our teeth whitening gel utilizes peroxide-based chemistry with a water base which means that the whitening gel hydrates the teeth throughout the whitening procedure. Hydration of the teeth is important because that is what prevents sensitivity.

Teeth Whitening Facts and Myths

Potential Teeth Whitening Customers want to know: What system produces the whitest smile for the money? How much will that great smile cost? How much time will it take! And, how much of a hassle is it? The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate teeth whiteners, so, where does this leave the consumer? The Consumer is left somewhat puzzled and downright confused. Most people hesitate or hold off on pursuing their beautiful white smile due to the worry of wasting time and money.

How does whitening actually work?

We use peroxide-based chemistry. Peroxide compounds are able to whiten teeth through a process called oxidation. Peroxide has the ability to penetrate the inner aspect of the enamel within a matter of only a few minutes after application where there are complex organic molecules within the tooth that reflect a specific wavelength of light and are responsible for the color. It has been shown that by releasing free radicals, peroxide has the ability to oxidize the color-producing organic compounds found within the enamel’s organic make-up. When these organic compounds are oxidized, the residual molecules reflect less light, thereby creating a reduction or elimination of the discoloration - whiter teeth! What peroxide compounds are used in a whitening system? Current compounds are hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide. In-store or over-the-counter whitening systems use hydrogen peroxide. In-office whitening can utilize both carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide.

What whitening treatment options are available?

There are 2 main categories of Teeth Whitening Systems:

1. In-Office:

Professional Whitening

Professional whitening is best performed with light technology. Light technology is referred to as photopolymerization and was first approved by the FDA for teeth whitening in 1996. The optimal light technique that is on the market today is: blue-light. Application of a high concentration of peroxide-based gel is applied to the tooth for 15 minute intervals. The blue-light system works by accelerating the chemical reaction. This provides faster, more effective results. There are some concerns associated with the light generating heat and the possible adverse effect it may have on the teeth, that is why we use cold blue-light technology. The primary benefit of professional whitening is that the process takes only one in-office visit and results can be dramatic and almost immediate. In the past, the one disadvantage was cost. Dental office solutions cost between $400-$1,000. Our treatments cost between $129 and $179, a significant savings.

Custom Trays

Custom-fitted trays are made by first making impressions of both upper and lower teeth by using silicone. The benefit of custom trays are increased effectiveness and is directly related to the percentage of peroxide and length of time it is in direct contact with the tooth surface. With a custom tray the whitening agent is able to remain in direct contact with each tooth, allowing for more accurate and uniform whitening with less chance of seepage and gum irritation. Trays also allow for inexpensive and convenient re-treating and touch-up as needed.

2. Over-The-Counter

Strips

Whitening strips are probably the most common in-store systems used. To create a more affordable approach to whitening and simple delivery system, these strips were first introduced in 2000. Major manufacturers offering strip systems varying in concentration of hydrogen peroxide from 3 to 10 percent. The cost for whitening strip systems range from $25 to $55 and can easily be found in most grocery and drug stores. At one time, Whitening Strips were the only alternative option available to consumers. We offer professional quality teeth whitening at a price not much more than over-the-counter strip systems. Disadvantages of the strip system include the fact that the strips slide around easily and can produce uneven whitening or increased gum irritation. Strips can also be messy during application and removal. One of the newest systems has a dissolving effect that can leave a sticky residue and unpleasant taste. Treatments can takes up to a month. Often times they just don't work.

Brush-on

Brush-on systems are currently found in a stylish pen. The primary benefits are ease and convenience. The disadvantage of this system is the short period of time the whitening agent is in contact with the tooth. It is also difficult to isolate the teeth from the lips and tissues so they tend to dilute the whitening agent, negating it's effectiveness. This should be viewed as a touch up solution and not an alternative to professional solutions that utilize light technology and high concentration peroxide based gels.

Trays

There are two types of over-the-counter tray systems. However, these would be better described as pre-formed strips. These trays look and feel like strips that fit over the front of the teeth and wrap around onto the inside surface. These trays are pre-filled with a thin coating of a hydrogen peroxide-based gel. The cost is comparable to whitening strips. These are more secure than strips and provide more control with placement. The treatment at JMISKO surgical design md is just as economical and much more effective with the assistance of light technology and high concentration peroxide, results taking place in a fraction of the time.

What influences the whitening process?

A primary reason results vary significantly is because many factors influence the whitening process. Some can be controlled and some cannot. Plus, people's genetics, life-styles and even the integrity of the various systems may vary. That being said, here are factors that contribute to a difference in results:

The color of the teeth at the beginning of treatment - teeth that are yellowish respond to whitening better than teeth that tend to be gray or brown. Teeth that tend to appear gray have been effected more so by genics or early developmental insults such as exposure to anti-biotics. The most widely known is the antibiotic, tetracycline. Brown is often seen with excessive intake of fluoride. Excessive fluoride may also create an appearance of mottling or a blotchy look to the enamel and make it difficult to achieve the optimal results.

Clean teeth- best results are achieved if your teeth are thoroughly brushed and clean prior to your Whitening experience.

Percentage of whitening agent, it’s simple, the higher the concentration, the greater the results. However, a higher concentration of the whitening agent can also lead to greater risk of sensitivity. Therefore, the percentage of whitening agent should be determined based on: how sensitive your teeth are, if you have any root surfaces exposed, the delivery system you choose and over what period you desire to achieve results. In-store or over-the-counter systems have a much lower whitening agent percentage, so it takes much longer and may require more frequent touch-ups.

Duration of time - the whitening agent is in direct contact with the tooth surface. Each system requires a different time line and should be followed accordingly. The key is to maintain direct contact with the entire tooth to provide even whitening results. Treatments at JMISKO take just 15 minutes with the least chance of soft tissue irritation.

Oral habits can play a major role in the whitening process. Before any application, it is a good idea to thoroughly brush and floss plaque, stain and food debris from the surfaces of the teeth. Maintaining good oral hygiene will keep your smile looking brighter longer. Avoid foods and drinks dark in color or that are acidic (tea, coffee, sodas, wine, grape juice, chocolate, orange juice), smoking and chewing tobacco. Beware of oral home care products that contain alcohol and dyes/colors or products which may be highly abrasive or acidic.

The Accelerator Light significantly hastens
the whitening process via activation
of the photosentive Teeth Whitening Gel.