Teeth whitening is a popular procedure that has gained widespread demand among young and older individuals who seek to achieve a white and attractive smile. Among the various whitening methods available, laser teeth whitening stands out for its effectiveness and speed.
In this article, we will explore laser whitening procedures, their benefits and disadvantages, and provide tips for maintaining bright and shiny teeth following a whitening treatment.
What is Laser Teeth Whitening?
Laser teeth whitening is a professional bleaching process that aims to remove teeth stains and discoloration using teeth whitening kits in the dentist’s office, making them whiter and brighter.
Whitening can be performed with various teeth whitening products at home or in the office, but laser whitening is considered the most effective and fastest method.
What Causes Tooth Stains?
Stains can be accumulated on the teeth as a result of:
- Overconsumption of certain beverages and foods, such as coffee, tea, oranges, and pomegranates.
- The aging process leads to natural wear and staining.
- Smoking and tobacco.
- Some medications, such as chemotherapy.
Composition of Laser Whitening Material
The material used in laser whitening mainly contains hydrogen peroxide, which is an effective whitening agent.
The whitening material may also include:
- Sodium hydroxide: it adjusts the gel pH.
- Glycerin: it provides stabilization of the gel.
- Sodium fluoride: fluoride is an important mineral that strengthens the teeth and prevents dental caries.
- Potassium nitrate: it reduces teeth sensitivity during and after treatment.
What are the benefits of Laser Teeth Whitening?
Laser bleaching can offer several benefits such as:
- Rapid effect of the materials used; as it has high concentration compared to the in-home materials.
- Provides long-lasting results, that stay up to 3 years.
- Painless procedure can cause only mild sensitivity for the first 24 hours after whitening.
- It helps to whiten teeth 3-8 shades brighter.
- The material efficacy increases, when activated by laser.
- It is gentle and safe on gums and teeth, as it is performed by a professional.
Types of Laser Teeth Whitening Products
Teeth whitening products come in different forms, including:
- Teeth Whitening Gel: Applied directly to the teeth’s front surface.
- Teeth Whitening Powder: Mixed with a special liquid to form a creamy mixture applied to the teeth.
Also, there are different commercial brands for laser bleaching products, and every brand has its measures and efficiency.
What are the basic steps in the process of laser teeth whitening?
In office bleaching process can follow these steps:
Isolation
The teeth whitening dentist places specialized rubber dam to protect the gums and keep the mouth open. A light-cured resin is applied to the gingival line for additional protection. This resin is hardened using a light cure.
Application
The whitening gel or mixed powder is applied to the teeth using an applicator.
Whitening process
A laser teeth whitening device is used to activate the whitening gel according to the manufacturer’s instructions, enhancing its bleaching properties. After the procedure, the isolation materials are removed, and the gel is rinsed off.
How long does laser teeth whitening take?
Laser teeth whitening session takes between 30 and 60 minutes. Some patients may require other appointments for better results. The effects can last up to 3 years with suitable care.
Are there any side effects of laser teeth whitening?
Potential disadvantages of laser teeth whitening may include:
- Mild burns or irritation if the whitening material contacts the gums or lips.
- Uneven teeth whitening when there are dental fillings; that do not respond to the bleach.
- Temporary tooth sensitivity in the days following treatment.
- Increase the chance of dental problems like tooth erosion or cavities.
- High cost of laser whitening compared to other whitening methods.
- Possibility of pulp damage, particularly in younger individuals.
Laser whitening may not be effective or suitable in certain cases, such as:
- For patients under 16 years old.
- During pregnancy.
- For teeth stained by tetracycline.
- For patients taking specific medications such as antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Patients undergoing orthodontic treatment.
- In cases of intrinsic staining; due to dental fluorosis, enamel hypoplasia or pulp necrosis.
- Patients with weak enamel, exposed dentin, or gum disease.
- For very dark stains.
It’s important to know that whitening material doesn’t affect dental filling, dentures or crowns.
What is Laser teeth whitening cost?
The cost of laser whitening varies based on:
- Number of sessions required.
- teeth whitening kit used.
- Local currency
- clinic location.
- The experience and qualifications of the dentist.
Post-laser teeth whitening instructions
Do you intend to undergo dental whitening?
To maintain the results of laser teeth whitening, follow these instructions:
- Brush your teeth immediately after eating or drinking, especially after consuming stain-causing substances.
- Avoid foods and beverages that can stain teeth, such as coffee, acidic drinks, tea, juices and carbonated beverages.
- Avoid smoking and tobacco use.
- Visit your dentist for cleaning and scaling regularly.
- Use a straw for drinking.
- Eat calcium-rich foods.
How to whiten teeth naturally?
Several natural methods can be used at home:
- Baking Soda
Its mild abrasiveness helps remove stains; so it is commonly used in commercial kinds of toothpaste.
Prepare your special toothpaste by mixing one spoon of baking soda with two spoons of water and brush your teeth few times a week.
- Hydrogen Peroxide
Used for its whitening and it has antibacterial properties. Hydrogen peroxide is considered the main component of most toothpastes.
1.5-3% solution can be used as a mouthwash before brushing teeth or mix two spoons of hydrogen peroxide with 1 spoon of baking soda for brushing.
- Crunchy Vegetables and Fruits
These help to remove plaque and rub some stains. Fruits like strawberries and pineapple also have natural whitening properties.
- Teeth Whitening Strips
It is one of the most popular at-home bleaching procedures, that help to lighten teeth a shade or two.
It contains hydrogen peroxide compounds that lighten teeth and typically require application twice daily, 30 minutes each time for about (2-3) weeks.
- Home Bleaching Trays
It is an easy and simple way to whiten teeth at home, and it is similar to laser whitening, but with a lower concentration of whitening agents.
They are worn for 30-60 minutes daily over 2-3 weeks.
There are many commercial over-the-counter whitening kits, so you must ask your dentist about the most suitable one.
- Whitening Toothpaste
Contain mild abrasives to help remove surface stains and whiten teeth, but should not be overused to avoid enamel wear.
Professional whitening versus in-home whitening
Professional treatment offers better results and enhanced safety. A dentist first assesses your oral health and then selects the most appropriate whitening method. In-office treatments also provide superior protection and isolation of soft tissues, which cannot be achieved with home treatments. Additionally, professional whitening provides quick results, often achieving a noticeably whiter smile in just one hour.
Conclusion
laser teeth whitening is a fast and effective method to achieve a brighter smile, typically resulting in teeth up to 8 shades whiter within an hour. Following post-treatment instructions and considering natural or home whitening methods can help maintain the results.
