Updated on March 8, 2024
3 min read

LED Teeth Whitening Kits: Safety and Efficacy

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Light Emitting Diode System (LED) teeth whitening treatments are becoming a more popular teeth whitening method. They speed up the whitening process so you can achieve a brighter smile in less time. 

However, there are many concerns regarding the safety of LED teeth-whitening lights. We discuss them in this article. 

What Are the Safety Considerations for LED Teeth Whitening?

Current research shows that LED teeth whitening is safe and effective for at-home use. Users shouldn’t experience adverse side effects if they follow the manufacturer’s instructions.1

LED light on your teeth is safer than ultraviolet (UV) light. UV light can cause cell mutations, while LED lights don’t. LED teeth whitening kits speed up the whitening reaction without the risks associated with UV light.2

Remember that the results from any teeth whitening treatment will depend on the user’s lifestyle and the cause of their teeth discoloration. Always talk to a dental professional to know whether you’re a good candidate for whitening treatments. 

Get your brightest smile with NewMouth's top teeth whitening picks for 2024.

How Does LED Teeth Whitening Work?

The bleaching agent in teeth whitening is usually made from carbamide or hydrogen peroxide.  LED lights accelerate the chemical reactions that whiten your teeth by breaking down the peroxide faster, activating the whitening gel.

This light is provided in your teeth whitening kit. The average time to use the kit ranges from 10 to 20 minutes. However, this will vary according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Potential Side Effects of LED Teeth Whitening

While LED teeth whitening systems are safe when used properly, you must know their potential side effects. These include:

  • Teeth sensitivity
  • Mild gingival irritation
  • Tingling sensations
  • Uneven whitening on the teeth 

How Do Results and Risks Compare to Other Whitening Methods?

Here’s a comparison of the results and risks of LED teeth whitening and other teeth whitening treatments:

LED Teeth WhiteningAt-Home Teeth Whitening (Strips, Toothpaste, or Gels)Professional In-Office Whitening
How It WorksUses LED lights to speed up the teeth whitening processUses abrasives or low amounts of peroxideInvolves the supervision of dental professionals
SafetyGenerally safe when you follow the manufacturer’s instructionsGenerally safe, but can lead to sensitivity with improper useSafe for most people since it involves a dental professional’s supervision
EfficacyMore effective than other at-home whitening treatments like whitening strips or toothpasteResults are gradual but still effectiveUses higher concentrations of hydrogen or carbamide peroxide, making the treatment more effective

Precautions to Take with LED Lights for Teeth Whitening

If you’re planning to use LED teeth whitening, you must take note of the following precautions:

  • Follow the package instructions on how often to use the LED lights
  • Apply a protective barrier (like dental resin or petroleum jelly) on your gums before LED teeth whitening4
  • Choose a reputable product from trusted brands to ensure safety and effectiveness 
  • Visit a dental professional if you experience pain and gum irritation from the treatment

Summary

  • LED teeth whitening kits are becoming a popular method to whiten teeth at home. 
  • These kits are generally safe, but you should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. 
  • Tooth sensitivity and gum irritation are the most common side effects of using LED teeth whitening kits.
  • Choose a reputable product and use a protectant around your gums to minimize the side effects of teeth whitening kits.
  • It’s always best to consult a dental professional before starting treatment with LED teeth whitening.

Last updated on March 8, 2024
7 Sources Cited
Last updated on March 8, 2024
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We have strict sourcing guidelines and only cite from current scientific research, such as scholarly articles, dentistry textbooks, government agencies, and medical journals. This also includes information provided by the American Dental Association (ADA), the American Association of Orthodontics (AAO), and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
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