Laser Teeth Whitening

What is Laser Teeth Whitening?

Laser teeth whitening, which is often called power whitening, is one of the most common ways to solve the problem of discolored teeth. In recent years, this procedure has grown in popularity because it is safe and it will not cause damage to the patient’s gums or the structure of the tooth.

At the beginning of the procedure, the patient has a rubber dam placed inside their mouth so their gums receive protection. Then, a layer of bleaching gel is applied to their teeth that contain natural pH levels. The next step is the gel for the laser, and which causes the mineral accelerant held within it to activate. This causes the whitening gel to transform into oxygen. At this point it covers the tooth’s enamel and allows the whitening gel to become penetrated into the tooth’s lower levels so teeth whiten. It is possible for teeth to look up to between five to six shades brighter with laser whitening. The purpose of the laser is to speed up the process of whitening through its interaction with the gel that causes the whitening to occur.

Steps to Laser Teeth Whitening:

• Screening: During the initial screening, the dentist will also check to see if your gums have receded to expose a significant amount of the tooth root. If this is the case, your teeth may bleach somewhat unevenly, because the roots of teeth are resistant to bleaching. The dentist may be able to offer alternatives to bleaching.
• Pre-Treatment: The next step is for the dentist or hygienist to clean your teeth. He or she will also ensure that all cavities are treated and filled, because otherwise the whitening solution could penetrate through the cavity into the interior of your tooth.
• Medication: Any form of tooth whitening can cause temporary sensitivity, especially in persons who already have some sensitivity in their teeth. For this reason, your dentist may prescribe a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication prior to the first whitening session.
• The Whitening: The dentist will use a rubber or plastic guard to hold your mouth open. Next, the dentist will apply a barrier over your gums to protect them from the whitening solution. This barrier is often applied as a gel which hardens to a protective rubber-like layer. When the gums are fully protected, the dentist will use a syringe to apply a whitening compound to the front of your teeth. The dentist will use a pen-style laser to activate the compound, which will cause it to foam somewhat as it lifts the stains away.When all of the teeth have been whitened by the laser, the dentist will allow the compound to remain for a few minutes, and then wipe off the whitening compound using a small vacuum tool. He or she will then apply a new layer of compound and repeat the process as many as three times.
• Follow-up: The teeth whitening process is not permanent. Teeth can be re-stained, especially by cigarettes, beverages such as coffee or tea, or some foods. You may need to schedule a follow-up whitening session; the effectiveness of the whitening lasts for as few as six months or as long as several years.

Pros of laser teeth whitening

The effects from laser treatment are visible in just few hours which is why it is termed as quickest dental treatment of all times. Laser is one of the best tool that is being used in the medical field and has the capability of achieving the best results. The speed is also convenient to the patient. The confidence level will be at an all time high after you have undergone laser teeth whitening.

Cons of laser teeth whitening

Ideally the treatment is safe but patients have complained of sensitivity after the procedure is over. This happens because of the laser and the peroxides that are being used. Peroxides are used in higher quantity. Some patients also face gum related issues and other dental complications long after undergoing this treatment.

What causes yellow teeth?

Teeth stains can be caused by a variety of factors. Genes, your environment, or your medication can significantly alter the color of your teeth. The foods you eat or the beverages you drink can cause surface stains which penetrate the second layer of your teeth, also known as dentin. This darkens the overall appearance of your tooth due the translucent nature of the first layer, enamel. When this happens, the tooth turns yellow.