Teeth whitening: the controversy of smile bars

Dentists have long stood against what is commonly referred to as “The Smile Bars”. These promise you a smile akin to that of stars with cheaper prices; as opposed to the more expensive services proposed by dentists.
Do both services offer similar results for different prices?
Do we really save money for whitening our teeth at a smile bar?

Teeth-Staining: What Causes Tooth Discoloration?

Tooth discoloration can occur due to various factors, ranging from lifestyle habits to underlying medical conditions. Common culprits include consumption of dark-colored beverages like coffee, tea, and red wine, which can stain tooth enamel over time. Smoking and tobacco use are also significant contributors to yellowing teeth. Additionally, certain medications, such as tetracycline antibiotics, can cause intrinsic staining during tooth development. Poor oral hygiene practices and aging-related changes in dentin, the tooth's inner layer, can further exacerbate discoloration. Understanding these factors is crucial in adopting preventive measures and seeking appropriate treatments to maintain a bright and healthy smile.

What Makes a Poor Candidate for Teeth Whitening Treatments?

Not everyone is an ideal candidate for teeth whitening treatments. Individuals with severe tooth decay, gum disease, or exposed roots may not benefit from whitening and could even experience worsening of these conditions. Additionally, those with highly sensitive teeth or allergies to whitening agents should avoid these treatments to prevent discomfort or adverse reactions. Teeth that are heavily stained from certain medications, such as tetracycline, or that have intrinsic stains from within the tooth structure might not respond well to standard whitening methods. Pregnant or breastfeeding women are also generally advised to postpone whitening procedures. Consulting with a dental professional is essential to determine suitability for teeth whitening and to explore alternative options if necessary.

Teeth whitening at a smile bar: what to expect

Smile bars claim that teeth whitening is a very simple and harmless procedure to both the gum and teeth. They either suggest a whitening product that does not contain hydrogen peroxide or one that contains it, but with a percentage inferior to 0.1 % (as imposed by the law). In a colourful room, they may propose that you make yourself comfortable on their sofa while they daub your teeth with an activator. They thereafter proceed to placing a commercial cast filled with whitening gel and expose your teeth to a blue light. The latter is believed to stimulate the penetration of the product into the mineral phase of the enamel.

However, even if smile bars respect the law and the imposed percentage of hydrogen peroxide (which should be inferior to 0.1 %), one session does suffice to obtain the desired shade of whiteness. Therefore, smile bars now propose multiples sessions of teeth whitening. In addition, there is no problem if the product used by smile bars contains sodium perborate rather than hydrogen peroxide because the latter releases oxygenated water upon contact with saliva. Getting your teeth whitened at a smile bar may be dangerous since you are receiving services from non-professionals. For instance, the “unmastered” use of the whitening gel, with a high density of hydrogen peroxide, may lead to dental injuries like teeth hypersensitivity to cold or heat.

It is important to bear in mind that certain tooth shades cannot be treated through whitening; such as severe fluorosis or teeth colour alteration due to tetracycline. The latter cases may even aggravate with the application of whitening products (like amelogenesis imperfecta). The hand of a professional is needed to conduct a diagnosis and distinguish between a superficially dark shade or a shade in need of deeper medical treatment (treatment of dental caries, periodontal treatment, placement of dental veneers, etc.).In addition, the application of whitening gel on a dental plaque does not really change the shade of the tooth because the product will not attain it. Therefore, prior to teeth whitening, the patient has to undergo a scaling; which is not among the services that a smile bar offers.

Illegal & Unregulated

One of the primary issues with teeth whitening bars is their often illegal teeth whitening practices. In many regions, including the UK, the administration of high-concentration whitening gel should only be performed by a licensed dentist. However, numerous salons and spas are offering these services without proper regulation, leading to unregulated teeth whitening procedures that can pose serious risks to consumers. The lack of accountability in these establishments means there is no assurance that the products used meet safety standards. Untested ingredients and improper application methods can result in hidden damage that may not be immediately evident but can cause long-term harm.

Chemical Strength

The effectiveness of teeth whitening largely depends on the chemical strength of the whitening gel used. Professional teeth whitening procedures performed by dentists typically use controlled concentrations of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, ensuring both safety and efficacy. However, many teeth whitening bars use solutions with dangerously high levels of these chemicals to achieve dazzling results quickly. This excessive chemical strength can lead to enamel damage, increasing the risk of teeth sensitivity and even teeth decay. Unlike professional treatments, where the concentration is carefully monitored and tailored to the individual’s needs, the one-size-fits-all approach of many teeth whitening bars fails to consider the potential for adverse effects.

Unknown Risks

The unknown risks associated with teeth whitening bars extend beyond immediate teeth whitening risks. These unregulated services often use untested ingredients that can cause adverse reactions. Without proper oversight, there is little accountability for the safety and efficacy of the treatments offered. Consumers may face hidden damage to their oral health, including sensitivity and pain, allergic reactions, and other complications that may not become apparent until much later. The lack of proper aftercare and professional advice further exacerbates these risks, leaving individuals without the necessary support to address any issues that arise.

Teeth whitening at the dentist’s:

All of the aforementioned aspects are controlled by a specialized dentist. The diagnosis is conducted during the preliminary consultation. If the patient is a good candidate for teeth whitening, a scaling session or a session of root planning will be scheduled prior to the treatment.Teeth whitening will be performed under medical supervision and with calculated doses. The teeth will be stemmed so that whitening gel does not evacuate and alter paradental tissues. If necessary, a personal cast filled with whitening gel will be prepared to prevent the occurrence of post-treatment complications.

Getting your teeth whitened at the dentist’s office is more reliable and efficient. The difference of pricing is explained by the professional’s “savoir-faire”, trustworthiness, and the duration of results.Indeed, once teeth whitening is completed, a revision will be only needed after three to four years. The dentist will give you all the necessary tips to keep your teeth white and prolongate the whitening effect.

At Home Teeth Whitening Kits

For those seeking safer alternatives to teeth whitening bars, at home teeth whitening kits offer a more controlled and reliable option. Products Teeth Whitening Strips provide effective results with regulated concentrations of bleaching agents. These kits often include additional products like the Teeth White Pen, Toothpaste for Whitening Teeth, and devices like the Sonics Toothbrush with whitening mode, which are designed to enhance the whitening process while minimizing the risk of teeth sensitivity and enamel damage.

Moreover, products like Dental Floss for Whitening Teeth and Mouthwash for Teeth Whitening offer comprehensive oral care that supports whitening efforts without the harsh effects associated with unregulated treatments. Many of these products are also aligned with modern values, offering vegan oral care, sustainable oral care, and harm-free oral care options that cater to a growing demand for ethical and environmentally friendly solutions.

Benefits of Teeth Whitening: Why Whiten Your Teeth?

Enhances Appearance and Boosts Self-esteem:

Whitening your teeth can significantly enhance your overall appearance by brightening your smile. Yellow or stained teeth can make you look older and less healthy. By achieving a whiter smile, you can boost your self-esteem and feel more confident in social and professional settings.

Makes You Look Younger:

A bright, white smile is often associated with youthfulness and vitality. Teeth whitening can help reverse the effects of aging on your teeth, making you appear younger and more energetic. This aesthetic improvement can have a positive impact on how others perceive you and how you feel about yourself.

Easy and Affordable:

Teeth whitening is a straightforward and cost-effective way to improve your smile. There are various options available, from over-the-counter whitening kits to professional treatments offered by dentists. These options cater to different budgets and preferences, making it accessible to almost everyone who desires a brighter smile.

Improves Oral Health Care:

Maintaining white teeth often goes hand in hand with improved oral hygiene practices. People who undergo teeth whitening tend to become more conscious of their dental care routines, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups. This proactive approach not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your smile but also promotes better oral health overall.

Effects and results: What to do and expect after teeth whitening?

After teeth whitening, you can expect immediate improvements in the brightness and overall appearance of your smile. However, it is essential to follow certain guidelines to maintain these results. Initially, you might experience some tooth sensitivity or gum irritation, which typically subsides within a few days. To prolong the whitening effects, avoid consuming stain-inducing foods and beverages like coffee, red wine, and tobacco. Maintain good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing and flossing, and consider using a whitening toothpaste. Follow-up treatments or touch-ups may be necessary, depending on your lifestyle and the type of whitening procedure used. By adhering to these recommendations, you can enjoy a brighter, whiter smile for a longer period.