Frequently Asked Questions
Whitening Results
Whitening Results
Spotlight uses the active ingredient hydrogen peroxide which is clinically proven to whiten teeth. Spotlight is also clinically proven. In saying this there are many factors that may contribute to the rate of whitening to your teeth.
1. If you consume large amounts of tea & coffee before or during your whitening process this will affect the whitening rate, as they contain tannins that stain your teeth.
2. Avoid dark coloured foods such as curries, anything tomato-based and chocolate as these also promote staining to occur. We normally recommend avoiding dark coloured foods and liquids, especially during the 2-week whitening course.
3. Smoking - smoking contributes to staining of the teeth as nicotine, tar and other chemicals stain the teeth.
4. Condition of enamel - if you have damage to your enamel, over time, dentine becomes exposed - which is yellow in colour.
5. If you haven't visited your dentist in 6 months, you may have a build up of plaque and tartar that stops the active ingredients in the strips from penetrating onto the enamel which will result in a less that ideal whitening treatment. Please ensure to see your dentist and hygienist regularly.
Depending on the results a person wants to achieve, they may require a second box. I hope this information helps.
Whitening Strips
How often should I repeat the course?
This totally depends on your diet and how much tea/coffee etc you drink. Normally, we recommend repeating a full course every 6 months and try to top up every 3 months with generally 5 days worth.
I have a veneer/crown. Will the strips whiten my teeth?
No whitening system will ever whiten veneers or crowns as they are made of porcelain. The whitening strips will whiten natural teeth but normally when a crown or veneer goes in, they are matched to the shade of the teeth around them. As you get older, your natural teeth darken a little so whitening every 6 months will brighten your natural teeth closer to the shade of the porcelain.
Can I use them if I’m pregnant?
No, we do not recommend using the whitening strips while pregnant or breastfeeding but you can use our whitening paste, pen and mouthwash.
Will the strips cause me sensitivity?
No, generally not. Higher percentages of hydrogen peroxide whitening systems that you can get at your local dentist’s may for a short time but at this low dose (less than 0.01%) sensitivity is generally not an issue. With that being said, you may have an awareness that you have had something on your teeth, but not sensitive.
Does it work?
Yes, Spotlight contains the ingredient hydrogen peroxide which is clinically proven to whiten teeth.
Which strip is for the top and which is for the bottom?
The longer strip is for your top teeth and the shorter strip is for your bottom teeth.
Can I use the strips overnight?
No, the strips are designed to be used for one hour every day for two weeks.
Can you use teeth whitening strips with fixed metal braces?
No, the strips have to be applied on natural teeth.
I am experiencing white patches after I use the strips. Why is this?
These white patches are called opacities which are on the teeth naturally and may become dehydrated during any whitening process. This is completely normal. We recommend using the strips in the evening time so by morning they will fade away.
I used your whitening strips and my teeth didn’t whiten up at all, do I need a second box?
Depending on the desired result, some people may require a second box. Make sure to use our whitening toothpaste and mouthwash in conjunction with our strips, to optimise results and to avoid smoking, tea, coffee, wine and rich foods such as curries.
How many courses of whitening strips can I do in a row?
If you wish to do a second box you can. Then top up maybe once or twice a week with a strip, it depends on your diet and lifestyle.
How often would you advise to top up whitening with a strip?
Once or twice a week.
What age can you start using the whitening strips?
We advise people who are 16+ years to use our whitening strips. Below that age, you can use our whitening mouthwash, pen and toothpaste (with adult supervision)
I have receding gums, can I use you whitening strips?
Yes, our whitening strips are specifically designed for those with sensitive teeth or gums. Keep an eye on your gums for sensitivity, if you find they are sensitive try using our toothpaste for sensitive teeth.
Teeth Whitening Pen
How long does it last?
Depending on how often you use it. It is ideal to be used on the go or as a top-up after your two-week whitening course.
Is it as effective as the strips?
If you’re looking to whiten your teeth, we recommend using a course of whitening strips and use the pen as a top-up or for getting rid of daily stains from tea, coffee, red wine or any dark coloured foods such as curries, chocolate or anything tomato-based
How often should you use the pen?
We see this product as a handbag hero that can be used on the go or as a top up for getting rid of daily stains
Does the pen need to be used on clean teeth?
Our products are manufactured both locally and globally. We carefully select our manufacturing partners to ensure our products are high quality and a fair value.
How long does it take for the whitening pen to show results?
The whitening pen actively dissolves stains to whiten teeth, the results are immediate.
Professional LED Teeth Whitening System
What makes these PAP Pro Strips different to the original Teeth Whitening Strips?
They contain a combination of Hydrogen Peroxide and PAP for enhanced whitening and Hydroxyapatite for remineralising your teeth. These active ingredients are activated by the LED light.
Is the level of Hydrogen Peroxide different to the original Teeth Whitening Strips?
No, there is no difference in Hydrogen Peroxide levels but these strips contain additional active ingredients such as PAP to whiten your teeth effectively.
What ingredients are in the PAP Pro Teeth Whitening Strips and Pen?
- Teeth Whitening Strips Ingredients: PVP, Glycerin,Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose, Water, Alcohol, Phthalimidoperoxycaproic acid (PAP), Hydroxyapatite, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Chlorite, Sodium Hydroxide, Menthol, Hydrogen Peroxide
- PAP Pro Teeth Whitening Pen Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Glycerin, Cellulose Gum, Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose, Phthalimidoperoxycaproic acid (PAP), Disodium EDTA, Sodium Chlorite, Menthol, Sodium Hydroxide, Hydrogen Peroxide
Can the light damage the enamel?
No, the strips, pen and light are all enamel safe. The PAP Pro Strips contain the ingredient Hydroxyapatite which is amazing for remineralising enamel.
Can I use the LED Teeth Whitening Device with my current strips?
No, our new PAP Pro Teeth Whitening Strips have been specifically designed to be activated by our LED Teeth Whitening Device. They contain Hydrogen Peroxide and PAP which when combined lifts stains when activated by light.
If I have attachments on my teeth and can’t use strips, can I use the pen with the LED?
Yes. You can apply the PAP Pro Teeth Whitening Pen and use the LED for the recommended time to activate the whitening ingredients in our pen formulation.
Who is this product suitable for?
Anyone over the age of 16. This is not suitable for children, pregnant or breastfeeding patients.
Can I use this product if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
Unfortunately, this product is not suitable if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Sonic Toothbrush
I have receding gums, can I use your sonic toothbrush?
Yes, our sonic toothbrush has three different speed settings. If you find you have sensitive teeth or gums then the ‘sensitive’ speed level is perfect for you. It ensures you are receiving an effective clean without being too harsh on your gums or teeth.
Can my child use the sonic brush? How young can you use it?
Yes, kids can use the sonic toothbrush - just make sure they’re using the sensitive setting.
How long is the charging time?
We advise people to change their toothbrush head every 3 months.
How often should I change the head?
We advise people to change their toothbrush head every 3 months.
What makes the sonic brush any different from a regular electric toothbrush?
Our Spotlight Sonic Toothbrush has three different settings - Sensitive, Clean and White. Each has a different level of speed to ensure that you are comfortable while brushing your teeth. The high-frequency and brush movements ensure that both your toothpaste and oxygen is reaching those little spaces between your teeth that can be hard to get to. This technique ensures your teeth are receiving the best clean possible and the sonic brush does all the work for you.
Sonic Toothbrush For Children
What age is the Sonic Toothbrush for Children suitable for?
It is suitable for children aged 2+
What toothpaste should I use for my child?
We would recommend our Toothpaste for Children which contains the key active ingredient Fluoride and has a mild minty taste.
How does the timer on the Sonic Toothbrush work?
The Sonic Toothbrush timer works by pausing briefly every 30 seconds for each quarter of the mouth and turning off fully when the 2 minute brushing time has elapsed.
How long is the charging time?
Charge time is a full 15 hours for our sonic brush to ensure long-lasting battery life.
How often should I change the brush head?
We advise people to change their toothbrush head every 3 months. Buy here
Water Flosser
Why do you recommend a water flosser over traditional floss?
We all know that we should floss everyday but it can be difficult to reach all aspects. A water flosser is a smarter, easier way to floss. It has a rotating head which makes it much easier to floss. A water flosser removes bacteria from deep between the teeth and below the gum line where traditional brushing and flossing cannot reach, whilst stimulating the gum tissue to improve blood flow and circulation.
Water flossing provides an effective way of flossing where traditional flossing is not possible- whether it be dental braces, bridges, crowns implants and periodontal pockets.
Who should use a water flosser?
A Water Flosser is for absolutely everyone! If you struggle using traditional floss or simply want to improve your oral health. We particularly recommend a Water Flosser for people with braces, bridges, implants, crowns, periodontal pockets. It's suitable for anyone who wants a cleaner, fresher mouth.
When should I use a water flosser?
We recommend using the water flosser before brushing your teeth to dislodge food and plaque which can then be effectively brushed away when brushing your teeth.
How often should I use the water flosser?
Use your water flosser at least once a day, more often if you wear braces or have orthodontic work.
How to use your water flosser?
- Open the bottom of the water tank
- Extend the body of the water flosser
- Fill the water tank with lukewarm water and close the seal shut
- Before turning on the water flosser:
- Place the tip inside your mouth while leaning over the sink and aim the tip at the gumline
- Turn on the water flosser
- Start on the outside of your top teeth and work your way from the top back tooth on the top right all the way around to the outside of the upper left back tooth
- Start again on the inside of the upper right back teeth and work your way from the back tooth on the right all the way around to the inside of the upper left back tooth
- Spray water along the gumline, pausing briefly between each tooth.
- Top tip! Partially close your mouth to minimise water splashing, letting the water flow out of your mouth into the sink.
What is the battery life on the water flosser?
30 minutes (2 minutes for each use)
How long do I need to charge it for?
If you use your water flosser once a day or less, it is recommended you charge it overnight, once a week. If you use it twice a day or more, charge the unit more frequently.
Do not run the battery down completely as this may shorten the lifespan of the batteries.
Do I need to charge it when I first purchase it or does it come charged?
We advise charging the unit for 6 hours prior to first use. Insert the cable into the unit and insert the adapter into the power outlet. Unplug the charging cable from the unit prior to filling with water and during use.
How do I know when it needs to be charged?
It will flash red when it needs to be charged.
How do I know when it is charged?
Green LED light indicates fully charged. The battery will turn off automatically when fully charged. When left to charge, do not place near metal objects or water to avoid danger.
How many modes does it have?
It comes with 3 different modes to suit your flossing needs.
Normal Mode:
This continuous spray mode removes plaque and food residue with superior efficiency for that deep clean.
Soft Mode:
If you have sensitive teeth and gums, the soft mode will give you a gentler yet thorough clean.
Pulse Mode:
Pulse mode will massage your gums and clean between your teeth with 3 sprays per second.
How many pulsations per minute?
1500 pulses per minute and a water pressure of between 80 - 160 psi.
How do I change modes?
Press the start button for 3 seconds to power on your water flosser. To select the mode you require, quickly press again. Once for normal mode, twice for soft mode and three times for pulse mode. The LED indicator light will change to the selected mode. Press the button for 3 seconds to power off. The water flosser will automatically shut down after 2 minutes of operation.
I haven’t used my water flosser for a long time and now the indicator light does not light up while charging?
Due to lack of use the battery will enter a dormant state. Please allow up to 10 minutes for indicator light to show.
How do I clean my water flosser?
Hard water deposits may build up in your unit, depending on the mineral content of your water. If left unattended, this may hinder performance. Clean internal parts by adding 2 tablespoons of white vinegar to a full reservoir of water. Point the tip into the sink, turn off the unit and run until empty. Rinse by repeating with a full reservoir of clean water. Repeat this process every 1-3 months to ensure optimal performance.
How often do I need to replace water flosser tips?
Replace tips every 6 months. Replace orthodontic tips and periodontal tips every 3 months or when you see the tip beginning to wear.
Where can I purchase the replacement tips and how much do they cost?
The replacement tips can be purchased at SpotlightOralCare.com and cost €25 Buy Here
Can I use the water flosser if I have sensitive teeth/gums?
Yes, we advise starting with the ‘soft mode’ this will give you a gentler yet thorough clean.
What age is the water flosser suitable to use from?
Suitable for use for children over 6 years of age, under adult supervision
Can I use the water flosser while pregnant?
Yes
Can I use the water flosser if I have gum disease?
Yes, the water flosser is suitable for anyone who wants a cleaner, fresher mouth. The water flosser improves gum health by reducing bacteria below the gumline.
I have receding gums, can I use the water flosser?
Yes, one of the main reasons for receding gums is gum inflammation. Using a water flosser is a really gentle but thorough way of keeping your gums clean and a way of reducing the risk of gum recession
How can I minimise water escaping when I water floss?
We recommend placing the tip into your mouth while leaning over the sink. Partially open your mouth before turning the water flosser on so the water can flow freely into the sink. Leave the tip in your mouth while the unit is on to avoid mess.
Water flosser for tonsil stones?
Yes, water flossers can remove bacteria from beneath the gum line and in between the teeth improving oral health and bad breath. The spoon-like shape of our tongue scraper tip effectively removes bacteria from the tongue to help prevent bad breath. Place the tongue scraper in the centre of your tongue, half-way back. Turn the power on and gently pull the tip to the front of your tongue with light pressure.
Is a water flosser safe for bridges?
Yes, the water flosser is excellent to access difficult to reach areas around braces, bridges and orthodontic work
Can water flosser damage gums?
If used correctly, the water flosser will not damage gums. We always recommend to see your dentist regularly to ensure full oral health
Can a water flosser remove tartar?
Plaque is what forms on teeth and it takes three weeks to harden into tartar. Once tartar forms you will need to visit your dentist or hygienist to remove tartar with special instruments. By using a water flosser you are working to prevent the formation of tartar by removing the build-up of plaque.
Can a water flosser be shared?
We do not recommend this for hygiene reasons
Why does water flossing hurt?
A lot of patients find regular flossing uncomfortable. This may be due to inflammation if you haven't flossed before or you may be flossing too roughly. Always check with your dentist if you have inflammation or any pain.
Will water flossing help bad breath?
A lot of patients find regular flossing uncomfortable. This may be due to inflammation if you haven't flossed before or you may be flossing too roughly. Always check with your dentist if you have inflammation or any pain.
Can a water flosser remove teeth stains?
The buildup of plaque can lead to the teeth appearing more yellow. Plaque has a yellow colour. Water flossing helps remove plaque which will prevent build up of plaque.
Can water flossing make my gums bleed?
The most common cause of bleeding gums is inflammation. You may notice your gums bleed when you first use a water flosser. This is usually due to gum inflammation and the fact that you are now cleaning areas which will reduce inflammation. The best way to overcome this is to use the soft mode to begin with and gradually increase to the normal and pulse mode. Any discomfort and/or bleeding will disappear as your gum health improves. We recommend seeing your dentist and hygienist regularly to ensure overall good oral health
How many tanks should do a full mouth?
Two tanks should do the full mouth.
If I stop mine mid go, I have to refill the tank again or it won't spout out water. Is this normal?
If I stop mine mid go, I have to refill the tank again or it won't spout out water. Is this normal?
I have a bar at the back of my teeth, should I be using the orthodontic head on the back and normal on the front or can I use the same head for the whole mouth?
The orthodontic tip is designed to be used on any orthodontic appliance. We often find food and plaque getting caught around permanent retainers (bars). I would recommend using the brush tip along the bar (at the back of the teeth) and the regular tip at the front of those teeth.
Can a water flosser remove plaque?
Yes
Which head would you recommend for implants and bridges?
We would recommend the periodontal tip as it has the most targeted nozzle.
Toothpaste
Can I use the whitening toothpaste as my regular toothpaste?
You can use it as your regular toothpaste as it contains fluoride which helps prevent tooth decay. It contains everything you need to protect against all of the most common dental issues along with whitening your teeth.
How often do I use it?
Use it twice daily; morning and night.
Can I use the paste with the strips or after my 2-week whitening course?
We recommend using our toothpaste as part of your normal oral care regime and during and after your two-week whitening course as it enhances and maintains whitening results.
I have sensitive teeth and want to whiten my teeth, will your whitening toothpaste be enough?
Our whitening toothpaste contains the active whitening ingredient Hydrogen Peroxide, the same as our whitening strips - as well as all of our other whitening products. If you are looking to primarily whiten your teeth a few shades, we would advise starting off with our whitening strips and then using our toothpaste for whitening teeth to upkeep your pearly whites.
Why does your toothpaste contain fluoride?
As dentists, we recommend the use of fluoride in your toothpaste as it is one of the only proven ingredients to reduce decay. Fluoride used twice daily has been proven to stop early decay and prevent future decay. As dentists, we recommend using toothpastes that have clinically proven active ingredients and fluoride is a key ingredient to incorporate into your oral care products.
What age can my child use the whitening paste at?
We advise people who are 16+ to use our whitening toothpaste. Those aged 12+ can use with adult supervision.
I want to whiten my teeth and I have receding gums, which toothpaste should I buy?
We would advise using our Toothpaste for Gum Health and our whitening strips.
Can I use one of your adult toothpaste for my child?
Yes, our Toothpastes are suitable for children aged 7+ years.
What are the blue particles in your whitening paste made from?
They are made from hydrated silica beads.
Oral Care Hygiene
How often should I brush my teeth? Should I brush after each meal?
You should brush your teeth twice a day for 2-3 minutes at a time. You don’t need to brush your teeth after each meal but some people prefer to. If you are, be careful not to over-brush or brush too harsh as this can lead to receding gums. If you are wearing metal braces, we would advise brushing your teeth after each meal.
How often should I floss?
Flossing is essentially just as important as brushing is. We should floss each day, it removes debris and food caught between your teeth that a regular toothbrush cannot reach.
I find flossing hurts, how can I help this?
Often, flossing can hurt because we are not doing it often enough! If you have inflamed or bleeding gums, you might need to start using products that contain clinically proven active ingredients that target this specific issue such as our Gum Health Toothpaste. If the problem persists, you should make an appointment to see your dentist, as you may require treatment.
If your gums hurt when you floss, be gentle with yourself and make it a daily habit to floss before bed and your gums should be feeling healthier in no time.
How often should I visit the dentist/hygienist?
As a rule of thumb, we advise visiting the dentists twice a year for a check up and cleaning. You should get your teeth professionally cleaned every 6 months - this time frame varies for each individual (if you have braces you will need to get your teeth cleaned more often).