What is Laser Teeth Whitening?

Laser teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental procedure that can help you brighten your smile quickly and effectively. 

However, before deciding if laser teeth whitening is the best option for you, you should understand its process, costs, risks, benefits, and available alternatives for teeth whitening. 

How Does Laser Teeth Whitening Work?

Laser teeth whitening uses a bleaching gel which is then activated by a laser or high-intensity light. 

During the procedure, the dentist will do the following:

1. Place a protective barrier over the gums to shield them from the bleaching agent.

2. The dentist applies a bleaching gel to your teeth, which typically contains hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide.

3. A laser or LED light then activates the gel, enhancing its effectiveness and speeding up the whitening process by breaking down stain molecules on the tooth enamel.

   
   

The whole process takes about 30 to 60 minutes, and you may notice results after just one session. However, the number of sessions required varies based on the level of discoloration and your desired shade.

Cost of Laser Teeth Whitening

Laser teeth whitening is one of the more expensive whitening treatments you can get due to the technology involved. 

Here's a breakdown of the components that affect the cost of laser teeth whitening:

• Session Cost: On average, a single session costs between $400 and $1,500, depending on the dentist, clinic location, and specific equipment used.

• Number of Sessions: Some people may need multiple sessions to achieve their desired results, which adds to the overall cost.

• Out-of-Pocket Expenses and Insurance: Most dental insurance plans don’t cover cosmetic procedures, so expect to cover the costs yourself. Financing options may be available at some clinics.

• Location and Expertise of Dentist: Pricing can vary significantly based on the dentist’s experience, the clinic’s location, and the quality of equipment.

• 
  

Pros and Cons of Laser Teeth Whitening

Laser teeth whitening can have impressive results, but like any cosmetic treatment, it has pros and cons.

Pros	Cons
Fast Results: Noticeable results after just one session.	High Cost: More expensive than other options, especially with multiple sessions.
Custom Shade Selection: Dentists can customize the shade to match your preference.	Tooth Sensitivity: Temporary sensitivity during and after the procedure.
Enhanced Stain Removal: Light-activated gel effectively removes deep-set stains.	Potential for Uneven Results: Variations in enamel and stain depth can cause uneven whitening.
	Gum Irritation: Gel can irritate gums if the barrier isn’t adequately applied.

How to Maintain a Bright Smile

The results of laser teeth whitening can last several months to a year or more, but it largely depends on your habits and oral hygiene. 

Here are some tips for maintaining your bright smile:

• Avoid Dark-Colored Beverages: Coffee, tea, red wine, and similar beverages can quickly cause discoloration. Use a straw if possible to minimize contact with teeth.

• Good Oral Hygiene: Regular brushing, flossing, and using whitening toothpaste can help prolong the whitening effect.

• Regular Checkups and Follow-Up Treatments: Routine dental visits can help monitor your teeth’s health and assess if a touch-up is needed.

• Avoid Smoking and Tobacco: Smoking is a significant cause of discoloration, so quitting can help maintain your bright smile.

Alternatives to Laser Teeth Whitening

If laser whitening isn’t right for you, several other whitening options might fit your needs, budget, and lifestyle:

1. LED Whitening Devices: Often used at home, these devices involve a gel activated by LED light. They offer a less expensive alternative to in-office laser whitening.

2. At-Home Whitening Trays: Dentists can provide custom-fitted trays with a whitening gel. While effective, they take longer to produce results compared to laser whitening.

3. Over-the-Counter (OTC) Products: Whitening strips, gels, and trays available at most pharmacies offer an affordable, although less potent, option.

4. Whitening Toothpaste and Rinses: These products gradually remove surface stains but do not penetrate deep into the enamel. Some of the popular options include the trendy purple toothpaste or charcoal toothpaste.

5. Whitening Chewing Gum and Paint-On Gels: These products offer minimal whitening and are more suited for maintaining results than significant whitening.

   
   

Brighten Your Smile with Enamel Dentistry!

Our in-office teeth whitening is a safe and effective way to achieve a brighter smile in a single visit. 

We can remove stubborn stains and whiten your teeth 5 to 10 shades in a single session. Using the latest whitening technology, we make sure your teeth look great while keeping them healthy.

Schedule your appointment today and let our team help you achieve a smile that’s both stunning and long-lasting.