A big star on social networks, American teeth whitening is a huge success throughout the world, particularly in the United States, where the smile is a major aesthetic factor.

Americans are particularly attentive to dental hygiene and teeth whitening is a frequent part of their daily routine. Over the years, this practice has developed in Europe and France is no exception to this craze.

We are therefore going to present the American teeth whitening technique and also explain how this activity is regulated both on the national and European territory.

1. What is the European legislation concerning American teeth whitening?

The European Union does not reason according to the terms used: classic or American dental bleaching. It establishes the basis for the activity of tooth whitening based on the hydrogen peroxide content of the whitening gels.

In the United States, the land of opportunity, you can perform tooth whitening with gels containing more than 40% peroxide. However, this dosage can seriously harm the health of the users. These gels cause irreversible damage to the teeth and gums.

The European Union wanted to regulate the dosage of gels to protect consumers. A distinction can thus be made between the tooth whitening practice of beauty salons and that of dentists.

In concrete terms, the practice of “classic” tooth whitening for cosmetic purposes is authorised on condition that gels containing 0.1% hydrogen peroxide are used.

Beyond this dosage, gels with 6% hydrogen peroxide can be used. However, these gels are reserved for health professionals. Dentists may prescribe home care with these gels if a protocol is followed.

For American tooth whitening, gels containing at least 6% peroxide are used.

American tooth whitening is therefore reserved for health professionals in the European Union.

More specifically, we will explain the American teeth whitening method, which differs in practice from that of classic cosmetic whitening.

2. What products are essential for American teeth whitening?

The American teeth whitening technique is characterised by the use of whitening gels with a higher peroxide content than those used for cosmetic purposes. This treatment provides instant and long-lasting results: teeth lighten by 2 to 9 shades from the first session!

Unlike cosmetic tooth whitening, which brightens the enamel, American tooth whitening works on the dentin.

2.1 The 16% carbamide peroxide tooth whitening gel

Most of the time, the gel used is the 16% carbamide peroxide gel (which releases the equivalent of one third of hydrogen peroxide, i.e. 6%). Carbamide peroxide has the particularity of releasing its effects over several hours.

This higher dose of gel is by definition more abrasive. It is therefore necessary to protect the gums of clients/patients during treatment.

2.2 The gingival barrier

This protection involves the use of a gingival barrier. It is in the form of a syringe with a metal tip. Once applied, it is polymerisable under the effect of light. This means that it hardens. In concrete terms, this means that you will have a blue paste that will harden on your gums. This prevents the whitening gel from coming into contact with your gums and effectively fights potential inflammation.

Only after the gum barrier has been applied can the practitioner apply the 6% peroxide bleaching gel to the patient’s teeth.

2.3 The dental retractor

In order to better apply these two products (gel and gingival barrier), a dental retractor completes the range of products used. The retractor allows the client’s/patient’s mouth to be fully opened. With the retractor, it is therefore easy to access both the person’s teeth and their gums for preventive care. The dental retractor is usually made of very soft silicone.

2.4 Remineralizing gel

Finally, some people may experience post-sensitivity in their teeth. It is then recommended to apply a remineralising gel which restructures and strengthens the tooth enamel.

It is very simple to use: simply apply the blue gel to the teeth and apply the tooth whitening lamp to the teeth for a few minutes. After the time has elapsed, the customer/patient does not need to rinse his mouth. They can keep the product on their teeth to continue working.

2.5 Tooth whitening lamps

In order to achieve optimal care, American tooth whitening is performed by combining the effects of a professional tooth whitening lamp which has the function of activating the whitening gels.

There are several models of tooth whitening lamps. You should look at their power, ease of use and compliance with European standards.

At WHITECARE, we offer our professional customers the possibility of having all these products and accessories. We guarantee safe, effective, legally compliant products with proven results from the very first use.

Find all our American teeth whitening products in our WHITECARE shop.

The secret of bright smiles is the combination of professional know-how, the use of effective whitening gels and the use of powerful WHITECARE LED lamps.