Pros And Cons Of Laser Whitening

If you want your teeth whitened quickly, then laser whitening may be a good option for you. Laser whitening is a popular choice among those who need immediate results and don't want to wear uncomfortable bleaching trays. It's also good for people who don't like the harshness that some home whitening kits provide. If you've heard about laser whitening, but wasn't sure how it is done compared to traditional bleaching, then continue reading.

What is laser whitening and how is it done?

Laser whitening is when a light, or laser, is used to quickly whiten the teeth. After a thorough cleaning, a bleach gel is applied directly onto your teeth, just like in traditional whitening. However, the laser "cures" it quickly so you don't have to wear bleaching trays for long periods. During the procedure, your gums are protected against any accidental adverse effects from the laser.

What are the pros and cons compared to bleaching?

Pros:

The main benefit to laser whitening is that it takes very little time to get the desired effect. Most people can have it done in less than an hour. Though you will likely have to follow up with a couple more treatments before your teeth are fully whitened, you can usually see a substantial difference after the first visit. Laser whitening is also great for getting out stubborn stains that traditional whitening may not. Bleaching trays, while they don't always require a follow-up visit, do require you to wear the trays every day for a couple of hours for at least a week or two.

Cons:

Some people have complained that their teeth have gotten more sensitive after the procedure. A toothpaste for sensitive teeth is recommended for use afterward. Therefore, if your teeth are already sensitive, you may wish to talk to your dentist before undergoing this treatment. Sensitivity to the gel has also been reported. Laser whitening is also more expensive compared to other whitening procedures.

If you need to have your teeth whitened quickly, or you have stubborn stains, then laser whitening may be the best choice. Even if you choose a more traditional type of whitening, you should be aware that you will need to take care of your teeth in order to keep them looking bright. This means protecting your teeth against stain-causing foods and making sure you get in for your regular cleaning. Before doing any type of whitening, even if it's just a at-home kit, talk to your dentist first to make sure your teeth will fare well to this kind of treatment.