Dr. Ariel Savion has been an active dentist since 2007 and holds a dual Master’s degree from Germany in Laser Sciences and Dental Implantology. He has clinical expertise in laser periodontal therapy, microscopic surgery, and dental implant procedures.
He serves as the Medical Director of the dental corporation Savion Medical Center Ltd. and is the founder and owner of the prestigious master_implant educational club, dedicated to training dentists in advanced fields of dentistry.
In addition, Dr. Savion is the only certified instructor in Israel on behalf of the World Clinical Laser Institute in the field of laser dentistry.
Dr. Savion is an international researcher and lecturer and serves as a Key Opinion Leader (KOL) for leading medical companies in Israel and worldwide, specializing in laser dentistry, periodontology, and dental implantology.
Tooth Whitening and Enamel Brightening
Tooth whitening. clinically referred to as enamel brightening. is a safe, non invasive cosmetic treatment suitable for nearly everyone. Yet many people avoid it due to lingering misconceptions and unfounded fears.
The truth is, discoloration is almost universal. Carbonated drinks, hot beverages such as coffee, black tea, and green tea, alcohol including wine and whisky, and pigment-rich foods all leave their mark on our teeth over time, gradually shifting them from bright to dull.
In modern cosmetic dentistry, whitening agents have advanced considerably, and the procedure is now a routine treatment across the Western world. That said, the exact final shade cannot be predicted in advance, every patient responds differently. For this reason, photographs are taken with a clinical shade guide both before and after treatment. Most patients can expect an improvement of one to three shades of whiteness.
The condition of the enamel, the tooth's outer layer, plays a key role in the outcome. The more worn the enamel, the less pronounced the whitening effect, as the yellowish dentin beneath begins to show through. This is why the treatment tends to yield the best results in patients between the ages of 16 and 45, and more modest results in older patients whose enamel has thinned over the years.
For those who are hesitant: tooth whitening is a thoroughly safe process. No enamel is removed, no tooth structure is altered, and no significant side effects are expected following treatment. There is no age restriction, provided the enamel is not severely worn.
Important! Before beginning any whitening treatment, a dental evaluation is recommended, including a professional scale-and-polish to remove existing deposits from coffee, nicotine, wine, and food pigments. Whitening should always be completed before any restorative or reconstructive dental work, crowns, veneers, or composite fillings, so that the restorations can be matched to the newly brightened natural teeth, not the other way around. It is important to remember that whitening agents act exclusively on natural tooth structure and have no effect on existing dental restorations.
Laser Tooth Whitening at Savion Medical Center
Savion Medical Center is proud to offer the most advanced tooth whitening technology available: laser-assisted tooth whitening. Dr. Ariel Savion, our specialist, brings extensive experience in laser based dental treatments and is pleased to make this cutting-edge procedure available to his patients.
Laser whitening is the fastest and most effective way to brighten your smile, delivering visible results after a single session. The procedure uses a laser to activate a professional grade whitening gel applied directly to the teeth, allowing it to penetrate the enamel and break down deep-set stains and discoloration.
At Savion Medical Center, we use only the highest-quality materials and equipment to ensure every patient receives the best possible care. Dr. Savion and his team are committed to transparent, fully personalized treatment planning tailored to each patient's needs and expectations.
If you are considering tooth whitening, laser brightening, or any other cosmetic dental treatment, contact us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Savion.
Do Yellow Teeth Indicate a Health Problem?
Not necessarily. Discolored teeth are not always a sign of underlying health condition. However, they can sometimes be associated with poor oral hygiene, which may lead to cavities, gum disease, or bad breath. Over time, poor oral health can affect a person's general wellbeing so while discoloration itself is cosmetic, it is worth addressing holistically.
Common Causes of Tooth Discoloration
There are a number of things and habits that can cause teeth discoloration. For example:
- Poor oral hygiene – Inadequate brushing and improper flossing allow plaque and tartar to accumulate, leading to surface staining.
- Food and beverages – Coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored fruits are leading culprits for long term discoloration.
- Tobacco use – Smoking or chewing tobacco products causes yellow to brown staining.
- Aging – As we age, the outer enamel gradually goes down, revealing the naturally yellowish dentin beneath.
- Genetics – Some individuals are genetically more prone to discoloration.
- Dental trauma – Injury to a tooth can cause discoloration over time.
- Medications – Certain antibiotics (e.g., tetracycline), antihistamines, and antihypertensive drugs can stain teeth.
- Dental materials – Silver amalgam fillings can cause a grayish hue to develop in surrounding teeth over time.
In some cases, discoloration can be prevented or minimized through better oral hygiene habits and dietary changes. In others, professional whitening is the most effective solution.
Benefits of Tooth Whitening
Teeth whitening has direct consequences on the patient's appearance and feeling:
- Improved appearance – A brighter smile makes people look younger, healthier, and more confident.
- Greater self confidence – Many patients report increased comfort smiling openly and engaging socially after treatment.
- Positive first impressions – A bright smile is an asset in both personal and professional settings.
- Healthier looking teeth – Removing surface stains improves the overall appearance of the teeth.
- Motivation to maintain good hygiene – Patients who invest in whitening are often more motivated to keep their teeth clean and stain-free.
Whitening Methods
In Home Whitening with Custom Trays
This method uses individually fitted trays and whitening gel at a concentration of 10 –22% hydrogen peroxide. The process takes 4–8 weeks. The patient applies a small amount of gel (pea-sized) to each tooth in the tray and wears it for at least three hours daily, six days on, one day off. During this period, patients should use a sensitivity toothpaste and avoid staining substances (coffee, tea, wine, carbonated drinks, food dyes).
Whitening Laser Assisted
This is a single session treatment performed by a dentist using 35% hydrogen peroxide gel activated by a laser (ultraviolet light source). The gums are isolated first to prevent irritation, then the whitening agent is applied to the enamel surface. Three rounds of 20-minute laser activation follow, for a total chairside time of approximately 90 minutes. The final result is comparable to that of full home whitening. The main advantages are speed and convenience.
After the session, mild sensitivity is expected. Patients receive a sensitivity toothpaste and are advised to avoid pigmented foods and beverages for 48 hours.
Whitening Laser Assisted
Laser whitening in the clinic is followed by take-home trays for continued brightening until the patient achieves their desired shade.
Over the Counter Products
Pharmacy shelves offer whitening toothpastes, strips, and home kits. These products contain low concentrations of active ingredients and provide minimal, inconsistent results. They may be suitable for very mild surface staining but should not be expected to deliver significant color change.
Charcoal toothpaste has gained popularity as a natural option, but its abrasive nature can damage enamel with prolonged use, and its effectiveness on deeper stains is very limited.
Whitening Methods, Comparison Table
Method | Advantages | Effectiveness | Disadvantages |
Laser whitening (in-office) | Fast, precise, durable results | Effective on both surface and deep stains | Higher cost; not suitable for all patients |
Professional in-office whitening | Fast, personalized, safe and effective | Can brighten up to 8 shades; may require multiple sessions | More expensive than home options; possible sensitivity |
Home whitening kits | Affordable, convenient | Effective for mild staining | Takes weeks; possible sensitivity or uneven results |
Whitening toothpaste | Easy to use, widely available | Minimal effect on existing stains | Slow to show results; mainly prevents new staining |
Whitening strips | Affordable, convenient | Effective for mild staining | Variable and uneven results; possible gum irritation |
Charcoal toothpaste | Natural, no harsh chemicals | Limited to light surface stains | Abrasive; risk of enamel damage with regular use |
Side Effects
Side effects are generally mild and transient:
- Tooth sensitivity – Particularly to cold temperatures; typically resolves within a few days.
- Gum irritation – Redness or swelling if whitening agent contacts the gums; temporary.
- Taste changes – Occasionally reported; resolve quickly after treatment.
- White spots – Pre existing hypocalcification spots may become more visible initially, as they respond faster to whitening. Once the surrounding enamel catches up, usually within a week, the contrast disappears. If a faint white spot remains after treatment, a quick, painless procedure called micro abrasion can remove it.
When modern whitening agents are used under professional supervision and according to instructions, no irreversible damage should occur. The agents used by dentists are pH neutral, and there are no documented long-term risks to tooth or gum health.
Risks and How to Manage Them
Risk | Cause | Management |
Tooth sensitivity | Temporary sensitization from the whitening agent | Use desensitizing toothpaste before and after |
Gum sensitivity | Contact with whitening gel | A professional dentist isolates gums properly; at home, use gum barrier gel before treatment |
Enamel damage | Overuse or misuse of whitening products | Follow professional instructions; do not exceed recommended frequency |
Uneven results | Uneven enamel surface or improper product application | Consult your dentist for a personalized plan |
Allergic reaction | Sensitivity to whitening chemicals | Check ingredients beforehand; stop use immediately if a reaction occurs |
What to Do Before Treatment
A pre-whitening dental checkup is strongly recommended, including a professional scale-and-polish to remove tartar and surface stains from coffee, nicotine, wine, and food dyes. Whitening should ideally be completed before any restorative or reconstructive work, so that crowns, veneers, or fillings can be matched to the naturally brightened teeth, not the other way around. Note that whitening agents only affect natural tooth structure, not restorations.
Post Whitening Guidelines
Smoking It is strongly discouraged during and after whitening. Freshly whitened teeth are especially porous and susceptible to re staining. Quitting, or at minimum pausing, tobacco use is essential to preserve results.
Diet, Avoid coffee, tea, red wine, and citrus juices for at least 48 hours post treatment, and ideally for several weeks. Drink only water for the first week after whitening. Use a straw when consuming staining beverages to minimize tooth contact.
Long Term Maintaining Your Results
- Brush at least twice daily
- Floss at least once daily
- Use a whitening toothpaste with active whitening agents
- Avoid heavily staining foods and beverages
- Drink staining drinks through a straw
- Quit or avoid tobacco products
- Schedule regular dental checkups
Clearing Up Common Myths
"Whitening damages your teeth" – When performed correctly and under professional supervision, whitening is safe. Damage can occur with overuse or misuse of products, which is why professional guidance matters.
"Professional whitening is too expensive" – In office whitening has a higher upfront cost than at-home kits, but it is more effective and longer lasting, making it the better value over time.
"Whitening results last forever" – Whitening is not permanent. Teeth gradually re-stain depending on diet, lifestyle, and oral hygiene habits. Touch up treatments are typically needed every one to three years.
"Whitening works for everyone" – Not all staining responds to whitening. Some types, especially gray staining from tetracycline or genetic causes, require alternative treatments such as porcelain veneers.
"All whitening products are the same" – There are significant differences in concentration, delivery method, and clinical effectiveness. A dentist can recommend the right approach based on your specific case.
Contraindications
Whitening is not recommended for:
- Patients with severe bruxism (teeth grinding) and significant enamel wear
- Patients with extensive restorations throughout the mouth
- Patients with active or advanced gum disease
- Patients with gray tetracycline-stained teeth or genetically discolored teeth
- Patients with abnormal enamel structure, including internal striations
- Patients seeking a "Hollywood smile" with high expectations (porcelain veneers are the appropriate treatment in such cases)
- Patients with a high caries (cavity) risk
- Patients who do not maintain adequate oral hygiene
Laser Tooth Whitening at Savion Medical Center
Savion Medical Center is proud to offer state-of-the-art laser tooth whitening under the care of Dr. Ariel Savion, one of Israel's leading dental laser specialists. The procedure delivers immediate results in a single visit, using a laser to activate a concentrated whitening gel applied to the enamel surface, breaking down deep stains and discoloration effectively.
Our clinic uses only premium-grade materials and equipment. Dr. Savion and his team are committed to transparent, individualized treatment planning, tailoring every procedure to the patient's anatomy, goals, and expectations.
Whether you are interested in laser whitening, at-home brightening, or any other cosmetic dental treatment, we invite you to contact us to schedule a consultation with Dr. Savion.
Is it painful? The procedure is painless. Some patients experience mild transient sensitivity during or after treatment, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief or a desensitizing toothpaste. If you have concerns about sensitivity, we encourage you to discuss them with Dr. Savion before treatment begins.
This article was written by Dr. Ariel Savion to raise awareness of aesthetic dentistry in general, and tooth whitening in particular. Tooth whitening is a safe, effective, and satisfying procedure. The recommended approach is a combined protocol: one hour of in-office laser whitening followed by up to one week of home maintenance.
