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Laser teeth whitening is an in-office procedure performed by a licensed professional. It combines a concentrated bleaching gel with a laser to enhance its effectiveness.
Unlike at-home kits, which remove surface-level stains, laser whitening penetrates your enamel and dentin for better results.
At-Home Treatments
Over time, foods and drinks can stain teeth. Smoking also contributes to discoloration, and genetics can make your teeth more susceptible to yellowing.
Teeth whitening can eliminate stains that can affect your smile. But on occasion, certain stains can be too stubborn for a whitening treatment to get rid of, especially if you’ve had extensive dental work done.
Luckily, a teeth whitening professional can help! They typically use a light-activated gel that contains one of two high-strength bleaching agents: hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide.
Rubinov says that both of these chemicals have similar efficacy, and they work by breaking down color-causing molecules and removing the bonds they hold onto. He also says that most whitening treatments are safe and effective for patients with sensitive teeth.
A whitening treatment can also include a protective gum barrier, which is placed over your mouth and gums to prevent the bleaching solution from touching your teeth and causing discomfort or sensitivity. Any sensitivity that does occur during your treatment is generally mild and goes away in a few days, he says.
In-Office Treatments
Laser teeth whitening is the fastest and most effective way to brighten your smile. It can be done in-office and is faster than take-home whitening systems. Its results are also more durable, according to a study published in the Journal of Conservative Dentistry.
During treatment, your dentist will place cheek retractors and a gum barrier on your teeth to protect the soft tissue of your mouth from the bleaching gel. After a few minutes, your dentist will direct the laser onto your teeth to activate the whitening gel.
It is normal to experience some sensitivity after your treatment, but the sensitivity tends to be mild and short-lived.
Your dentist will provide you with a customized mouthguard appliance, which you’ll wear at home to help maintain your whitening results. This can be an excellent option if you’re looking to whiten your smile over time or want a less costly alternative to laser whitening.
While the cost of in-office teeth whitening may be more expensive than other options, it does offer fast and long-lasting results. With the right commitment, you can get a brighter smile for years to come.
Consultation
Laser teeth whitening is one of the most popular methods of achieving a brighter smile. The procedure is performed in the office by a cosmetic dentist, and results can be seen within 1 hour.
Unlike over-the-counter whitening products and strips, laser tooth whitening produces results that last longer. Additionally, it is safer than many at-home treatment options.
Patients with sensitive teeth may experience sensitivity from the bleaching process, but it is temporary and usually goes away after a few days. If you have sensitive teeth, be sure to discuss your concerns with your dentist.
Most patients notice a dramatic improvement in their teeth after the first session. However, the results will vary based on your personal diet and overall oral health.
Maintenance
One of the most popular dental treatments is laser teeth whitening. It works by using bleaching gel and lasers to reduce tooth discoloration. This technique is often more effective than at-home methods like whitening strips or gels.
It is also safer than at-home products. However, it is not covered by most insurance companies and can be expensive.
The cost of laser teeth whitening can range from $400 to $1,500, depending on the dentist and region. This is a lot of money for one treatment, especially considering that many people need three or more sessions to see results.
If you choose laser whitening, be sure to ask your dental care team about the possibility of regular touch-up appointments. These are meant to maintain the whitening effects and keep your smile looking brighter for longer.
