After completing my Invisalign treatment, I knew the next step I wanted to tackle was to get my teeth professionally whitened. One thing I observed throughout my Invalisign treatment is that my teeth had yellowed due to wearing my retainers 24/7 because most of what I would eat + drink would get trapped within the retainers. Luckily, The Gleamery: Professional Teeth Whitening came to the rescue and made my teeth looking a few shades brighter.
If you’re someone who has never professionally had your teeth whitened or curious about what the process looks like, this post is for you. I wrote down notes during my process so that I can pass along to you and hope to answer questions you may have. Keep reading for a special surprise!
If you’re not familiar with The Gleamery, they describe themselves as a dental salon. Where self-care meets dental care. Just like booking a workout class, haircut or facial, get professional teeth cleanings whenever you desire.
What makes The Gleamery different from my dentist?
The Gleamery’s services are intended to optimize your care and make it more accessible for you to get teeth cleanings and whitenings on a regular basis. They believe their model offers long-term benefits for your dental wellbeing, including less toothaches and headaches!
They by no means replace your dentist for exams, x-rays, or dental treatments and can refer out to a specialist if they notice any issues. You can leave your worries at the door knowing their services help you maintain a healthy, happy smile in a relaxing atmosphere. No drills, judgement, upsells, or surprise treatments, ever.
The great news is that walk-ins are welcome! All you have to do is check with their front desk to confirm appointment availability for same day services. Pretty easy!
Also, they do accept most major insurance providers including Delta, Cigna, Moda, Humana* (limited). However, at this time they are unable to accept state provided insurance plans. Keep in mind insurance will only cover cost for the cleaning and not the whitening.
What personalized treatment plans are provided?
Cleaning + Whitening (60 – 90 minutes)
Combines both cleaning & whitening services for longer-lasting results. Plus free Gleam Gloss fluoride polish for added strength, protection, and the sparkliest smile.
Cleaning (30 – 45 minutes)
Sit back and relax as they clean, polish, and floss your teeth with care. No x-rays, no hassles. Gleam Gloss fluoride polish, available as add-on.
Whitening (30 – 90 minutes)
Take advantage of the newest whitening technology. With Glo Pro Power get sensitivity-free whitening of at least 3+ shades in record time. Add-ons available.
My Experience
Upon entering their office space, immediately I am drawn to their checkered flooring and overall retro look. It’s colorful, fun, but somehow it works! Check-in process was quick and easy.
I was scheduled for both the cleaning + whitening package. I had read earlier that results are effective when your teeth are clean. So, I wanted this to be the ultimate experience.
I was taken to a room which is probably the coolest dentist looking space I have ever seen in my life. I thought, why isn’t my dentist this cool? Also, every office space should be remodeled, in my honest opinion.
Staff was very friendly and Nicole was my dental hygienist (I highly recommend booking her as she’s patient, answered all of my questions, and overall did an amazing job!) We discussed what I wanted to achieve in terms of shades, any concerns I had, and etc.
They offer two gels: standard to sensitive. I opted for the standard. Whitening can last anywhere from 4-6 months; all dependent as to what you drink and eat. Since I drink a lot of tea and occasional wine glass or two, my whitening would probably last 3 months.
I do want to point out that the cleaning process was the best experience I’ve ever had, period. At my dentist office, I’m always getting splattered with water and process has become harsh/aggressive. It’s become uncomfortable and annoying.
With Nicole, my cleaning experience was the opposite. She was super gentle during, asked if I was comfortable, and I did not have one single drop of water on my face. Can I just take her to my next dentist appointment, please?
Whitening Process
The whitening process was very easy and Nicole made the entire experience smooth and comfortable.
- Dry teeth, apply barrier, use light
- Applied gel, and whitening light for 8 min total x 2 sessions
- After each session, gel was sucked off and new gel applied along with lip oil (Vitamin E oil was applied on my lips for protection)
- Flouride is applied at the end to close the pores.
Normally, it takes two rounds during a visit, but Nicole added a 3rd complimentary round. I only made it through half of the 3rd round due to sensitivity. I had let Nicole aware that my teeth were feeling sensitive and we just ended the 3rd session.
After my whitening treatment, I was told the following:
- Don’t eat for the next 30 minutes
- Don’t eat hot or crunchy foods
- Don’t eat red sauces or anything staining for the next 4 hours
- May feel some sensitivity the next day (which I did, but very minor)
- Teeth may lighten more within 24 hours
- Within 48 ours, stay away from staining food and drinks
For reference, 1 is the highest shade you can achieve and before the whitening took place my teeth shade were 4G, after my whitening treatment I was between a 1 and 2. Overall, my experience was great and looking forward to my next appointment. I will definitely go back with Nicole as she was absolutely amazing!
Now, for a special treat to my readers. Stop by at The Gleamery in Cedar Hills and give them my name during your first appointment for $75 off your service! Cheers to whiter and brighter smiles!
If you enjoyed The Gleamery: Professional Teeth Whitening post, be sure to check out the rest of my Beauty posts.