Big error #1 – The light that Lottie is touting is not a laser. It is a bright heat lamp. Many refereed studies have shown no added benefit from the light when bleaching teeth. It’s a gimmick pure and simple.

It’s also not mentioned out that in the 60 minute bleaching techniques, much of the improvement come about because the teeth are dehydrated, making them appear whiter (read chalkier). This effect passes after several days or weeks and the teeth pretty much revert back, though not 100%. General dentists using this technique often follow up with bleaching trays which IMHO, do the real work.

The trays that the cosmetologist uses are loose fitting and allow the peroxide solution to escape and be swallowed. While I have never read of a dangerous side-effect form this, it would probably lead to a mild nausea. I would also be surprised if a suction machine is available in the cosmetologist’s shop to decrease this potential.

For the patient that wishes a lower cost alternative to the whitening kiosks and dentist, I recommend Crest White Strips and whitening mouth rinse. A disclaimer here – I recommend the name brand because of better quality control, storage and shipping. These materials are adversely affected by poor storage and heat (think of what conditions exist on a container ship). The name brands are likely to have a higher turnover and remain fresh. Ideally, all of the peroxide based materials should be shipped with refrigeration. I have seen bad results with generics, in particular, permanent yellowing of composite filling material.

This post was mentioned on Twitter by ctwatchdog: Dentists Angry About Non-Dental Teeth Whitening Clinics http://bit.ly/9YqqYB via @AddToAny…