Professional results—in about an hour

For a brighter, whiter smile without the wait, Dr. Erin McKinney chooses GLO Science, an in-office, chemically activated whitening treatment that offers results in less than an hour. “It’s ideal for people who want instant whitening gratification or those who have that special event coming up that requires a bright,
white smile,” says Dr. McKinney.

How Does It Work

Stains on teeth can be classified in one of two ways: extrinsic or intrinsic. Extrinsic stains appear on the surface of your teeth. Intrinsic stains live between the microcracks in your enamel and deep within your dentin (the layer of your tooth underneath your enamel). Whitening toothpastes and mouth rinses may be able to remove some of the extrinsic stains on your teeth. But only teeth whitening agents can remove the stubborn extrinsic stains and the unsightly intrinsic stains that cause your teeth to look discolored.

GLO gels contain an active whitening ingredient (either carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide) that penetrates your enamel to get to discolored molecules. Oxygen molecules from the whitening agents react with the discolored molecules in your teeth, breaking the bonds that hold them together. The oxygen molecules spread, whitening the entire tooth. As a result, you are left with a brighter, whiter smile.

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. GLO Science products include desensitizing ingredients like potassium nitrate and fluoride to help reduce sensitivity and provide additional comfort.

Is It Safe

GLO Science is a powerful, whitening treatment applied by your dentist to ensure a safe and comfortable experience. In addition, GLO gels include potassium nitrate and fluoride, both found to minimize tooth and gum sensitivity. Dr. McKinney protects the gums with a dental dam to ensure proper placement of the whitening gel.

GLO Science features a unique, chemically activated formula that allows your dentist to whiten your teeth without the bothersome heat or dehydrating effects of lights or lasers. Studies show that lights and lasers add no additional benefit during in-office whitening treatments.

Like with many other dental or medical treatments, people have wondered if teeth whitening during pregnancy and breastfeeding are safe. Because no studies have been done regarding the safety of teeth whitening during pregnancy, the ADA suggests that “clinicians may consider recommending that teeth whitening be deferred during pregnancy.” Most dental professionals follow this suggestion, making it the standard protocol throughout the dental community, and recommend their patients don’t whiten during pregnancy or fertility treatments.

Effectiveness

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.

If you have any questions, contact us right away at (480) 488-0686.