How does teeth whitening work?

Working from the inside out, the active ingredients in Pearlescence gels penetrate your teeth to break down the discolored molecules deep down in your teeth, removing stains and whitening your smile. Our original, patented formula contains PF (potassium nitrate and fluoride) and is sticky and viscous, so it stays where it’s placed. This unique feature prevents the gel from migrating during treatment and helping keep the gel and custom tray in place so it can continue whitening your teeth for the duration of the treatment.


Is teeth whitening for everyone?

Teeth whitening is a safe, comfortable way to get a bright, white smile. Results and treatment time may vary depending on the level of staining and whiteness desired. Crowns, bridges, fillings, and veneers will not whiten. We recommend visiting your dentist for a prewhitening consult so that they can help you choose the professional option that best fits your needs.


How long do teeth whitening results last?

Teeth whitening results are very stable, leaving you with a stunning smile long after treatment is over. However, there are a few factors that can make teeth lose their luster. Things like genetics, diet, age, some medications (like tetracycline), and certain habits (like smoking) may affect the length of your whitening results. Fortunately, touch-up treatments are quick and easy, helping you get that bright, white smile back.


Will teeth whitening cause tooth sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity is a relatively common side effect of teeth whitening. If sensitivity occurs, it is often temporary and will go away once you've completed the whitening process.


What options are available to whiten my teeth?

Pearlescence has been specially formulated and is available in many different concentrations, delivery options, and flavors. This means that you can whiten in a way that best fits your lifestyle. Whether you want to whiten your teeth with a Custom Tray, prefilled tray, or with an in-office whitening treatment, Pearlescence has a professional whitening option for you.


What is tooth whitening?

Tooth whitening is the removal of stains and discolorations from the enamel and dentin. The outer layer of the tooth is enamel, and beneath the enamel is dentin. Enamel is thin and typically much lighter in color, while dentin is darker in color and makes up the bulk of the tooth. Enamel can be discolored over time simply from age, but also from outside sources like coffee, tea, tobacco, and other foods and beverages. Also, as we age, our enamel thins, causing more dentin to show through, making the overall appearance of the tooth look darker. Whitening your teeth removes these stains and discolorations, giving you a whiter, brighter smile.


Can I whiten a crown or a filling?

No, only natural tooth structure can be whitened, any crowns or fillings that you have will not react to whitening products. If you have a crown or a filling that is easily visible, you may want to talk to your dentist about different options for improving your smile.


Is there anyone who should not whiten their teeth?

Pregnant women, those with gum disease, worn enamel, cavities, and exposed roots should not whiten their teeth.


How long does it take to whiten?

Everyone responds differently to whitening treatments and everyone will whiten at different rates. Some stains are easier to treat than others. Teeth that are yellow or brown are easier to whiten than teeth that are gray/blue. Younger patients typically whiten more quickly than older patients, but every patient is different.

When whitening, keep in mind that your smile looks most natural when the color of your teeth matches the whites of your eyes. Some people want a Hollywood white smile, but that is not a natural color for teeth and few people can actually reach that color of white. Consider consulting with your dentist to help determine the perfect shade of white for you.