If you’ve been a regular reader of The Brunette One over the years, you know I’ve tested my fair share of teeth whitening kits. A friend of mine referred me to a woman in Ankeny who runs SmileLABS, Kari Lilly. SmileLabs of Ankeny, LLC offers chair-side teeth whitening. The whitening treatment that lasts between 15-30 minutes and is done right there in her office. With a process of a short procedure and almost instant results, I couldn’t wait to test out the treatment.
The initial appointment is $99, which includes the first 15-minute treatment and the cost of the whitening gel kit. You can sign up for five 15-minute sessions for $199 to use over 6 months. Each session is 15 minutes.
SmileLabs of Ankeny, LLC is located in the first floor of Fitness World Clubs in the Prairie Trail District of Ankeny, Iowa. The gym is brand new and the space is immaculate. During your procedure, if you have children, you have access to the childcare provider at the gym ($3/hr) along with use of the locker rooms. SmileLabs of Ankeny clients may enjoy the amenities of the club the day of their appointment and are offered a free two week trial membership to our clients (no strings attached).
In addition to the services SmileLABS provides, you can also shop a new make-up line Kari added to her offerings, LimeLight By Alcone. LimeLight replaces harmful chemicals with natural ingredients. Their products are paraben-free, cruelty-free, and was formulated for use on all skin types included highly sensitive skin. One must check out the lip gloss and lip stick shades to highlight that pearly white smile!
Once we were situated, it was time to get started. I did two 15-minute sessions with Kari in one evening. Initially I was thinking Kari would be doing all the work, but because she is an Authorized Dealer of SmileLABS, and not a dentist, she guides you through the process while you prep and apply the teeth whitening gel. It may appear to be intimidating, but it was one of the most user-friendly teeth whitening experiences I’ve had.
The procedure is very simple. After you rub your teeth with deep cleansing teeth wipes, you will place a mouth prop and cheek retractors in your mouth. You will look funny and feel uncomfortable, but you get use to wearing the prop. Next, you will crack the Vitamin E filled q-tip and apply to lips and gums for extra moisturizer during the teeth whitening process. Using the patented Applia-Brush™ gel applicator, brush onto your upper, lower, and “i” teeth (try to avoid getting any on your gums). Remove any excess gel with a q-tip. Once ready, Kari will turn on the LED light. You’ll be under this for 15 minutes, once complete, simply rinse the gel from your mouth. You’ll see a difference almost immediately following the procedure.
I was completely apprehensive of the experience. I’ve tried custom trays at home, white stripes, and seen little result due to how sensitive my teeth can be, I’ve never been able to consistently whiten teeth. SmileLABS completely changed my mind. My teeth were not once sensitive during the treatment, or in the days following. I kept expecting it to hit drinking iced water, or anything cold. No such luck, which was amazing! Also, I will fully own up to the fact that I drooled while I was putting in the mouth prop. I couldn’t stop laughing. I felt so awkward. Once I started my second session, I realized I had to keep my head tilted to prevent making even more of a fool of myself. : )
After the procedure you can check your progress, I was able to whiten my teeth at least 6 shades brighter!
Another thing to note, is that you will note the brighter shade of your enamel once the treatment is done. Keep in mind that your teeth will whiten to a brighter shade of your teeth, and may not replicate the white and bright of your favorite movie star or a photoshop style of white teeth. Also, avoid eating anything that would stain your teeth for 24 hours (think of anything that could stain a white t-shirt).
I was very happy with my experience and can’t wait to schedule my next appointment with Kari! If you are interested in signing up for an appointment – just sign up on Kari’s website. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are preferred.
SmileLABS of Ankeny, LLC
1450 SW Vintage Parkway, #100
Ankeny, IA 50023
515-639-8479
This post is sponsored by SmileLABS of Ankeny, LLC, a brand I use and love. Thanks for supporting the brands that keep this site running!
