Getting those pearly whites is easier than ever with at-home teeth whitening kits like Snow. Snow’s whitening kits use LED light technology to brighten your smile gradually over a few treatments. But how long should you keep the light on during each session? Here’s a deep dive into Snow’s whitening light times so you can get the dazzling results you want.
Table of Contents
What is Snow Teeth Whitening?
Snow is an at-home teeth whitening brand that offers several different whitening kits. Their most popular kit is the All-In-One Teeth Whitening Kit, which contains:
- 1 LED activating light
- 3 whitening wands with proprietary whitening serum
- 1 extra strength whitening serum wand
- 1 mouthpiece
The LED light accelerates the whitening process, making stains vanish faster than whitening strips alone. Along with the light, the whitening serum gives you professional-level whitening in an easy, convenient kit.
How Does the Snow LED Light Work?
Snow’s LED light technology is the secret weapon in their whitening kits. The light emits a blue UV wavelength between 470-480 nm. This wavelength acts as an accelerator for the whitening serum, enhancing it and making it more effective.
When you place the mouthpiece with whitening serum in your mouth and shine the light on it, the UV wavelength activates the proprietary whitening formula. This causes a chemical reaction that breaks down stains on your teeth for brighter, whiter results.
How Long Should You Use the Snow LED Light?
Snow recommends using the LED light for the following treatment times:
| Session | Light Time |
|---|---|
| Session 1 | 10 minutes |
| Session 2 | 10 minutes |
| Session 3 | 10 minutes |
As you can see, each session involves keeping the light on for 10 minutes. This gives the UV light enough time to activate the whitening serum and work its magic.
During those 10 minutes, you don’t have to keep the light aimed at one tooth the whole time. You can move it around your mouth, shining it on all your teeth in 30 second intervals.
You should complete all three light sessions within 21 days. Spreading them out allows the whitening to take place gradually for natural-looking results. But don’t exceed 1 session per day.
Tips for Using the Snow LED Light
Here are some tips for making the most of your Snow LED whitening light sessions:
- Protect your eyes. Never look directly into the LED light, as this can cause eye damage. Wear the included eye protection or keep your eyes closed.
- Follow directions. Only keep the light on for the recommended 10 minutes per session. More is not better with light therapy and can irritate your teeth.
- Get full coverage. Move the light around your mouth during the 10 minutes to hit your top and bottom teeth.
- Watch alignment. Try to aim the light directly at the mouthpiece from the front for best results.
- Disinfect between uses. Wipe down the mouthpiece and light with isopropyl alcohol to keep things hygienic.
Maximizing Whitening with the Snow LED Kit
In addition to using the light properly, here are some extra tips for maximizing your whitening with the Snow system:
- Start with clean teeth and use the dental cleanser and desensitizing serum in the kit before whitening.
- Follow the usage chart to apply the serum evenly across your teeth.
- Try to minimize consuming staining foods and beverages like coffee, red wine, and curry during treatment.
- Stick to the 21 day timeline and complete all 3 sessions for best results.
Targeting Stained Areas with Light
If you have specific teeth that are more stained or discolored than others, you can give them extra attention during your LED sessions:
- Aim the light at especially stained teeth for a few extra seconds during the 10 minutes.
- Concentrate on one troubling area at a time. So for session 1, focus on your two front teeth. Session 2 hit your molars, etc.
- Use the extra strength serum on really stubborn stains.
With this targeted approach, you can break down tough stains for whiter teeth all around.
Common Questions
What if the light turns off automatically?
To prevent overheating, Snow’s LED light has an automatic shutoff after 10 minutes of continuous use. If this happens, simply turn the light back on and finish out your session.
Can I do more than 3 sessions?
Snow only recommends 3 sessions spaced out over 21 days. While more sessions may seem beneficial, it can irritate your teeth. Stick to their guidelines for the best results without sensitivity.
How white will my teeth get?
Most users see their teeth get 2-7 shades brighter after completing treatment. Results depend on factors like your starting shade and enamel thickness. Severely stained teeth may require extra sessions or touch-ups for full whitening.
Does Light Really Make a Difference?
You may be wondering if the LED light really makes that big of an impact with at-home whitening kits. According to dental research, light activation does speed up and enhance the whitening process:
- One study found light therapy whitened teeth 9x faster than whitening strips alone.
- Using light along with hydrogen peroxide resulted in significantly whiter teeth than peroxide alone.
- LED lights in whitening kits provide similar efficacy to in-office laser whitening.
So based on the evidence, the light makes these kits more effective—which is why following Snow’s recommended 10 minute session times is important!
How Long Do Results Last?
With proper care, the whiter smile you achieve with Snow’s light kit can last 1-3 years. However, results vary based on factors like your diet and oral hygiene. To make your whitening last, avoid staining foods and drinks, quit smoking if applicable, and maintain an effective brushing and flossing routine.
Most people only need to redo the Snow whitening treatment once a year or so to maintain their brilliant smile. But you can always touch up trouble spots as needed by targeting them with the included extra strength serum.
Is Light Teeth Whitening Safe?
Snow uses a lower energy LED light, so it is generally safe for your teeth and mouth when used as directed. The company conducted clinical trials to ensure their products are safe and effective when used properly. As with any whitening product, make sure to consult your dentist if you have concerns.
Some potential side effects include mild tooth sensitivity or gum irritation. This is usually temporary, but stop use and see a dentist if discomfort persists. Always inspect your mouthpiece before using and make sure it fits properly.
Conclusion
Keeping Snow’s LED light on for the full 10 minutes per whitening session is the key to seeing dramatic brightening results. Follow their timeframe of 10 minutes max for each of the 3 sessions spaced over 21 days. Going overboard with light exposure won’t necessarily speed up whitening and could irritate your teeth. Along with monitoring light use, remember to follow all the usage directions and oral care tips that come with your kit. This will ensure you get your money’s worth from these innovative at-home whitening systems.
In just a few easy 10 minute LED sessions, you’ll be on your way to a whiter, brighter smile that sparkles.
