Laser teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure designed to whiten teeth quickly and effectively. It involves the application of a bleaching agent (usually containing hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide) to the teeth, which is then activated by a laser light. The laser accelerates the whitening process by enhancing the effectiveness of the bleaching agent.
How Does Laser Teeth Whitening Work?
- Preparation: We first clean your teeth to remove any plaque and debris.
- Protection: A protective barrier is applied to your gums to prevent irritation from the bleaching agent.
- Application: The bleaching gel is applied to the surface of your teeth.
- Activation: The laser light is directed at your teeth to activate the bleaching agent. This process usually takes about 15-30 minutes, and it may be repeated several times during the same visit to achieve the desired level of whiteness.
- Rinsing and Finishing: After the treatment, the bleaching agent is rinsed off, and a fluoride treatment may be applied to help reduce sensitivity.
How Long Does It Last?
The duration of the whitening effect can vary based on several factors, including:
- Diet: Consuming foods and drinks that stain teeth (like coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco) can shorten the duration of the whitening effect.
- Oral Hygiene: Good oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing and flossing, can help maintain the results longer.
- Individual Factors: The natural color of your teeth and how well they respond to whitening treatments can also affect the duration.
On average, laser teeth whitening results can last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years. To prolong the effects, it's often recommended to avoid staining foods and drinks, maintain good oral hygiene, and possibly use whitening toothpaste or at-home whitening treatments as advised.