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If you're serious about whitening your pearly whites, laser teeth whitening is probably a procedure that you have come across. It involves a trip to the dental surgery - and usually a significant financial investment - but the results are usually much better than those you can expect from any at-home or over-the-counter teeth whitening options.
In this article, we reveal the low-down on laser teeth whitening to reveal everything you need to know about this popular cosmetic dentistry procedure that can breathe new life into your smile.
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Teeth whitening strips for sensitive teeth.
What is laser teeth whitening?
Laser teeth whitening is a cosmetic dentistry procedure that can brighten your teeth by several shades. Also known as laser teeth bleaching, the dentist will apply a whitening gel to your teeth before directing a laser onto it, which heats up the gel and delivers results.
The main goal of laser teeth whitening is to remove stains and reduce discoloration, something that it achieves effectively for millions of cosmetic dentistry patients around the world every year.
How does it work? Laser teeth whitening step-by-step
Though you must schedule an appointment with your dentist for laser teeth whitening, it doesn't usually take more than one hour to complete. It's also a pain-free, straightforward procedure that shouldn't cause any unwanted side effects. Here's exactly how it works:
1. Initial consultation
You will begin with an initial consultation with your dentist, during which they will reveal the full process and ensure that laser teeth whitening is a suitable procedure for your teeth.
2. The treatment begins
At the start of the procedure, the dentist will give you protective eyewear to use to protect your eyes. They will also add a a gum barrier and mouth prop to keep your mouth open for the duration of the treatment.
3.The bleach is applied
Next, the dentist will add the whitening bleach to your teeth. This may taste a little unusual but it's completely harmless.
4. The laser begins
With the gel on your teeth, the dentist will direct a laser onto your teeth to heat up the gel. This activates the whitening properties of the gel and removes some of the stains on your teeth.
5. Rinse and complete
After working the laser over all of your teeth, the dentist will rinse the gel from your mouth and bring the procedure to a close. All being well, the whole procedure shouldn't take more than 60 minutes.
Pros & cons of laser teeth whitening
This is a straightforward cosmetic procedure that is low risk. But if you're weighing up whether laser teeth whitening is for you, here are some pros and cons to consider:
|
Pros |
Cons |
|
✅ Perhaps the best option for professional teeth whitening |
❌ Expensive - in most countries, laser teeth whitening costs in the region of $500 |
|
✅ No recovery time needed |
❌ Your teeth might feel a little sensitive for 24 hours after the process |
|
✅ The results of laser teeth whitening can last for up to 3 years |
❌ You need to avoid stains going forward to prevent further discoloration |
How long does laser teeth whitening last
A successful laser treatment for teeth whitening delivers results that can last for more than 3 years. This is much better than most at-home whitening kits, that usually deliver short term results that don't last for more than one year.
Does laser teeth whitening work?
Yes. If you're looking for the best approach to teeth whitening, laser whitening is by far the best option. The combination of the gel and laser removes even the most stubborn stains from your teeth, brightening your teeth by several shades.
As a result, laser teeth whitening is much more successful than most DIY products or options and although it is costly, it's the number one approach if you want to whiten your teeth.
Also, after the process, the dentist will advise you to avoid foods and drinks that stain your teeth. They will also advise you to clean your teeth thoroughly 2-3 times each day with an oscillating brush like the Laifen Wave.
There's little point in paying to whiten your teeth if you're not going to look after them properly after the treatment is done!
How much does laser teeth whitening cost?
The laser teeth whitening cost depends on numerous factors, including where you live. But in our research, we found that most dental clinics charge approximately $500 for this cosmetic dentistry procedure. You can shop around to find the best deal available to you, so feel free to contact several dentists in your local area until you're happy with the price quoted.
Is laser teeth whitening safe?
Laser teeth whitening is perfectly safe, provided that it is performed by a qualified dentist in controlled settings. If you have particularly sensitive teeth, the dentist may not recommend the treatment to you, but other than that, you shouldn't experience any discomfort or side effects as a result of this treatment.
The last words
Although there are lots of ways to whiten your teeth at home with over-the-counter products, there's no doubt that visiting your dentist for laser teeth whitening is the way to go if you can afford it.
The combination of the gel, laser, and professional application delivers results that are impossible via at-home products, so if you can afford the $500 that it costs, it is definitely the best option if you want your pearly whites to shine.
