Teeth whitening has surged in popularity, with many consumers eager to achieve brighter smiles. However, the unregulated nature of this cosmetic service often leads to confusion about the differences between various whitening technologies, particularly when it comes to the terms "laser" and "LED." At Fern Whitening Supplies, we're here to clarify these terms and help you make informed choices.
The Basics of Chairside Whitening
In North America, chairside whitening involves applying strong peroxide-based gels directly to the teeth for an immediate shade lift. While results can vary, many patients experience significant whitening in a short period, leading to instant gratification. Most providers complement the gel application with a light source to enhance the results. But what type of light is used—laser or LED?
The Truth About Light Sources
In reality, 99% of the time, the light source used in teeth whitening is an LED light. LED lights come in various shapes, sizes, and designs, but they all serve the same purpose: to increase the efficiency of the peroxide by creating tooth dehydration and oxidizing the peroxides for quicker results.
LED Light Intensity
LED lights vary in intensity, which can affect the whitening process:
- Low-Budget Lights: Typically under 6,000 intensity, often found on platforms like Amazon.
- Dental Lights: Range around 11,000 intensity, suitable for many whitening providers.
- High-Performance Accelerators: Ranging from 20,000 to 26,000 intensity, designed for professional use.
While lower-intensity LEDs don’t require a certification, the higher-end lights (11,000+) usually require a teeth whitening certification or dental diploma. However, these lights are still not lasers.
What About Lasers?
A laser is a highly specialized tool that can only be purchased by licensed medical providers. In dentistry, lasers are primarily used for procedures like cavity preparation and soft tissue surgeries. While lasers can be used for whitening, they are typically not acquired solely for this purpose due to their high cost.
Key Points About Lasers:
- License Requirement: Only dental professionals can purchase lasers, which means most teeth whitening providers are not using them.
- Added Treatment: If a dental office has a laser, whitening is usually an additional service rather than the primary focus.
- Potential Risks: Lasers can generate significant heat, which may lead to pulpal inflammation and increased sensitivity in patients.
Interestingly, while lasers can reduce chair time, advanced LED accelerators—especially those with integrated ultrasound technology—can achieve comparable results with less sensitivity and potentially shorter appointment times.
Misleading Terminology in the Industry
The confusion often arises when whitening technicians refer to themselves as "Laser Teeth Whitening Technicians." This is usually due to misleading marketing from their suppliers. In most cases, these technicians are utilizing LED technology rather than true lasers.
Making Informed Choices
For consumers looking for teeth whitening services, it’s crucial to understand the distinction between LED and laser technology. Opting for a provider that uses high-quality LED equipment can yield excellent results without the risks associated with laser treatments.
If you’re a provider seeking to enhance your offerings, reduce chair time, and improve patient outcomes, consider investing in the Beyond II Ultra Accelerator—the most advanced LED light on the market equipped with ultrasound technology. Contact Fern Whitening Supplies today to learn more about how we can help you elevate your teeth whitening services.