Peer-reviewed article, referencing research and findings by Dr. Grant McGrath, BDSc, Co-Founder of Method Dental.
If you're active on social media, you've likely seen celebrities and influencers flashing bright, seemingly perfect smiles, all thanks to HiSmile – a teeth-whitening system that has flooded the internet with its promises of transformative results. But does it really live up to the hype? As a consumer, I couldn't resist putting HiSmile to the test myself by purchasing their whitening kit, including the whitening pen. In this comprehensive review, I'll provide insights into what HiSmile is, whether it works, and if it's worth your investment.
Influencers and HiSmile: A Match Made in Advertising Heaven
Before diving into the review, it's essential to acknowledge the power of influencer marketing in HiSmile's rise to fame. Celebrities like Kylie Jenner and Conor McGregor have endorsed the product, creating a buzz that's swept across social media platforms. With this level of exposure, it's no surprise that many are curious about HiSmile's effectiveness.
Does It Actually Work? The Short Answer is No.
To address the most critical question right away: No, HiSmile did not deliver the transformative results it promised. Despite being in need of teeth whitening myself due to my excessive tea and coffee consumption, the HiSmile system failed to deliver noticeable improvements. While I did observe a tiny, almost imperceptible change in a couple of teeth, I suspect it was more of a visual illusion. Given that HiSmile's claimed results last only 2 weeks to 3 months, the lack of significant whitening was disappointing, especially for someone like me who enjoys daily coffee.
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The HiSmile Teeth Whitening System: What's in the Kit?
HiSmile's kit consists of a mouthpiece and a blue LED light. Users apply the provided gel to the mouth tray, insert it into the mouth, activate the light, and leave it in place for 10 minutes. Initially, the recommended treatment is for six nights, and the kit includes sufficient gel for these six sessions. HiSmile boasts of a pain-free and sensitivity-free experience and claims results of up to 8 shades of whiter teeth.
According to the product's website, the gel contains several ingredients, including Sodium Bicarbonate, Sodium Chlorite, Citric Acid, Aloe Leaf Juice, Pomegranate Seed Extract, Chamomile Flower Extract, Glycerol, Propylene Glycol, Deionized water, Carbomer, Xanthan Gum, and Menthol. While these ingredients are listed, HiSmile does not disclose the concentration of its "key ingredients."
The HiSmile Experience: What to Expect
One notable downside of HiSmile is its one-size-fits-all mouthpiece, unlike professional whitening kits customized to an individual's teeth. Although the mouthpiece is reasonably comfortable, the lack of a snug fit can affect the gel's contact with the teeth. However, the LED light has a handy feature that automatically turns off after 10 minutes, signalling the completion of the treatment.
Despite the ill-fitting mouthpiece, I didn't experience a significant taste of the gel during the sessions, which was a positive aspect.
Why HiSmile Falls Short: The Science Behind It
To understand why HiSmile didn't live up to its promises, it's crucial to examine the science behind its ingredients and their impact on teeth. HiSmile's gel contains Sodium Bicarbonate, Sodium Chlorite, and other components that, when understood, reveal their limited effectiveness for teeth whitening.
Sodium chlorite, while indeed a bleaching agent, must be manufactured under specific conditions of pH and concentration to be effective. Such conditions would render it unsafe for oral use. Additionally, HiSmile's failure to disclose the concentration of its "key ingredients" is concerning and misleading.
The Illusion of Online Results: Lighting and Editing Matter
Online results showcasing dramatic improvements in teeth whiteness should be viewed with scepticism. The angle, lighting, and editing of these images can significantly impact how the results appear. Additionally, influencers' endorsem*nts, often fueled by substantial financial incentives, can make it challenging to determine the genuine effectiveness of HiSmile for them.
Seeking Whiter Teeth: What Should You Do?
Given my experience and the limitations of HiSmile, I cannot recommend it. Beyond personal results, the lack of transparency regarding ingredient concentrations and manufacturing sources raises concerns. In contrast, professional whitening systems recommended by dental professionals provide safe, proven options. These systems specify the concentration of active ingredients and are produced under strict quality standards.
Ultimately, when seeking teeth whitening, it's best to consult a dental professional for personalized guidance. Numerous options are available, ranging from whitening toothpaste to professional in-office treatments. To make an informed choice, consider your specific needs and consult a dentist who can guide you toward the most suitable option.
In the quest for whiter teeth, informed decisions and professional advice are key. Avoid falling for the allure of quick fixes and flashy endorsem*nts, and prioritize your oral health with safe and effective solutions.
