Having a bright smile not only improves appearances, it goes a long way toward improving one's self-image, which is the way someone thinks other people perceive them. Tapping into this desire for the perfect smile, tooth whitening has become the most requested cosmetic dentistry service today.

There are many tooth whitening options available that range from at home self-application to professional services performed by a cosmetic dentist. According the ADA , the most effective whitening treatments are performed in office using a whitening agent and special light. On of the most well known in-office tooth whitener systems is BriteSmile by Discus Dental. The BriteSmile system combines a specially formulated gel that is activated by a bright light in the blue-green spectrum.

Prior to performing any tooth whitening, the dentist usually conducts an oral exam to ensure that the teeth are clean, and in generally good health prior to the service. If fillings are required, the whitening services may be rescheduled for a later date, after the minor pain and sensitivity following a filling procedure goes away.

During an hour-long office visit, the dentist applies two applications of a specially formulated whitening gel, each session lasting approximately 20 minutes. The rest of the hour is consumed with preparation and post application activities. The BriteSmile system uses a special gel known as the BriteSmile Procedural Gel, which is a 15% hydrogen peroxide-based bleaching agent. After the first application, an accelerator agent is added prior to the second treatment to increase whitening further.

After the gel is applied, the dentist places a gas plasma or LED (light-emitting diode) light in such a way as to illuminate all the teeth at one time. The light emits a wave of blue-green color, which activates a special ingredient in the gel to increase the bleaching effects. After the first application, the whitening gel is reapplied, and the teeth illuminated for the second session. The light does not emit any heat that would be harmful to the lips, teeth, or gums. Minor tooth sensitivity has been reported following this procedure, but it usually does not persist beyond the first day following.

After an hour at the dentist's office, the treated teeth are noticeably whiter and brighter. Depending on the severity of the discoloration, another application may be administered after a short interval. The BriteSmile tooth whitening system can increase whiteness by four to six shades in just one office visit. Most people are satisfied with the whitening effects after just one application. Using the BriteSmile tooth whitening system does not preclude supplementing the whitening effects with over the counter applications or the use of tooth whitening toothpastes known as dentifrices.

The benefits of BriteSmile tooth whitening last for up to four years depending on eating and smoking habits. Smoking and heavy coffee or tea consumption can dim the whitening effects more quickly. Regularly scheduled oral exams are also recommended to maintain a bright shiny smile.

When seeking tooth-whitening services, it is important to find a skilled cosmetic dentist trained using the BriteSmile system. Ask to see any before and after photos of other successful treatments to see if the BriteSmile tooth whitening system will help obtain the desired aesthetic results.