Pristinely white teeth are a staple in beautiful, healthy smiles. In a world full of food, drinks, and various bad habits that can stain teeth, it's important to understand that discolorations can be reversed. Our office utilizes lasers to whiten smiles which have several benefits.
In-Office Laser Whitening
Teeth whitening is an elective cosmetic procedure that alters the shade of your teeth. However, the benefits of this treatment go beyond what you can see. Whitening eliminates bacteria from the surface of your teeth, enhancing your oral health, and also elevates your self-esteem which improves your mental health.
As part of our commitment to high-tech dentistry, we utilize lasers for our whitening treatments. Lasers allow us to be more precise and increase the effectiveness of this procedure while limiting any discomfort.
The Process of Laser Whitening
Before your procedure begins, the color and shade of your teeth will be determined and we will take some "before" photos to document the process. Next, we'll start to prep you. First, we'll apply a special SPF moisturizing lotion to your lips to protect them. Then, we will prop your gums up with cotton rolls and insert a cheek retractor in your mouth.
Now the procedure can begin, and it starts with applying the bleaching gel. This is a similar gel used in other teeth whitening procedures and contains hydrogen peroxide. Despite using a similar gel, that's the only aspect they have in common.
For the results to happen, the gel must be activated. That's where the lasers come in. Lasers won't directly brighten your teeth, but a combination of laser-activated gel and a powerful laser will do the trick. Typically, each teeth whitening consists of three 15-minute sessions, which are completed in just one sitting.
After the Procedure
Immediately after we've finished, you'll see the results. Using a mirror and the before pictures, you'll notice how much whiter your teeth are. On average, our patients experience a smile that's up to eight shades whiter!
Things to be Mindful of and to Avoid
As mentioned earlier, there are many factors that can discolor your teeth. The following list highlights the dos and don'ts for post-whitening operations:
- Avoid dark beverages
- Use a straw
- Brush your teeth with whitening toothpaste twice a day (morning and before bedtime)
- Set regular checkups twice a year
- Consider periodic touch-ups to ensure your smile is at its best all the time
Important Things to Know
Laser whitening or teeth whitening in general is not a viable solution for all individuals. You will need to consult with your dentist to determine if you're a strong candidate. If we deem whitening isn't for you, do not resort to grocery store alternatives. These may further damage your teeth, and worse, cause you pain and discomfort.
Interested in Teeth Whitening?
If you believe your smile would improve with a tooth whitening treatment, call us to set an appointment today! Our expert team will thoroughly examine you and determine if your teeth can handle the treatment. We look forward to seeing you soon.