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.
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:
The dentist applies a bleaching gel to your teeth, which typically contains hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide.
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.
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:
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.
If laser whitening isn’t right for you, several other whitening options might fit your needs, budget, and lifestyle:
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.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Products: Whitening strips, gels, and trays available at most pharmacies offer an affordable, although less potent, option.
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.
Whitening Chewing Gum and Paint-On Gels: These products offer minimal whitening and are more suited for maintaining results than significant whitening.
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