If you've been planning on having your teeth whitened but aren't sure which method to use, you might want to consider laser whitening. Laser whitening is carried out by an experienced cosmetic dentist in a dental clinic, and it's a teeth whitening technique that's rapidly gaining in popularity. So what does laser teeth whitening entail and what are the pros and cons of this technique? Read on to find out more.
How does cosmetic laser teeth whitening work?
Laser whitening is also known as power whitening.
An experienced cosmetic dentist will first apply a special whitening product to your teeth. A laser light will then be shone onto the teeth to activate the whitener. When the treatment is finished, your teeth will be cleaned to remove any residual whitening product.
The treatment is not painful, and you won't require any form of local anaesthetic.
What are the advantages of laser teeth whitening?
Laser teeth whitening is carried out during just one hour-long session in the dentist's chair, so you won't have to go back for repeat treatments or spend time using messy bleaching kits at home.
Unlike other forms of whitening, laser treatment can leave your teeth looking up to 14 shades whiter. The technique also removes stains and uneven pigmentation. The effects are immediate; there's no waiting time for bleaching agents to activate. In addition, the effects of laser whitening treatment are pretty long-lasting compared to other options.
Repeated bleaching can damage the enamel on your teeth. Laser treatment is much gentler and kinder to your teeth and doesn't need to be repeated as often as other options, leaving your teeth not only whiter, but healthier too.
What are the disadvantages of laser teeth whitening?
The main disadvantage of laser teeth whitening against other treatments is that it is comparatively expensive. However, as you won't need frequent repeat treatments, this cost will balance itself out over time.
As with any form of whitening treatment, some people do have issues with increased tooth sensitivity following treatment. This sensitivity usually subsides quickly, and your dentist will advise you on the correct care of your teeth following the laser whitening treatment.
In conclusion
As with any form of cosmetic whitening treatment, there are pros and cons to laser teeth whitening. Have an in-depth discussion with your expert cosmetic dentist for more advice and guidance as to whether laser treatment is the best option for you.
Share14 January 2016
I have worked as a school nurse for decades. Children come to me with all sorts of scrapes and bumps and bruises. Black eyes from playing football, sprained wrists from falling off the monkey bars and stomachaches from too many sweets are common complaints. However, the issue that seems to cause the greatest angst is tooth problems. Sometimes a child will have a second tooth knocked out when playing sport and parents arrive in tears. At other times, children come to my office crying because their friends are teasing them about teeth that are discoloured or stick out. I take an active interest in the latest dental news so that I can give parents and children comfort and advice. I have included some of my collected wisdom on these pages. Perhaps this information can help you understand some options when faced with a dental problem. Thank you for reading.