For many people, bright and pearly-white teeth are a symbol of beauty, confidence, and hygiene. A smile is not only a wonderful expression, it’s also one of the first things that people notice when you meet them for the first time.
If you happen to have brown, yellow, or otherwise discoloured teeth, it could make you insecure about your smile. Sometimes, it could have a considerable impact on your confidence, and make you less likely to want to smile in public. Fortunately, with modern technology, you can easily get your bright white smile back.
If you’re seeking a safe, effective, and long-lasting solution to achieve a whiter smile, laser teeth whitening from clinics like The White House in Dublin may be the answer you’ve been looking for. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll look at the intricacies of laser teeth whitening, exploring its benefits, process, safety considerations, and more.
What is Laser Teeth Whitening?
Laser teeth whitening, also known as laser-assisted teeth whitening, is a dental procedure designed to help lighten the colour of your teeth and remove any stains and/or discolouration. Unlike over-the-counter whitening products, which typically use bleaching agents such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, laser teeth whitening uses energy from a concentrated light source to enhance the whitening process, delivering faster and more dramatic results.
The light is essentially manipulated using lasers, which can emit different colours like blue and near-infrared which can cause the stain to react in several ways. This reaction can then be monitored and analysed with specialised equipment, effectively allowing for accurate treatment and effective results.
How the Process Works
During a typical laser whitening treatment, a gel is applied to your teeth and it’s then exposed to a powerful blue light. The light is used to activate the gel, which in turn breaks down the discolouration and stains on your teeth. The result is significantly whiter teeth in just one session.
The treatment procedure usually lasts for about 30 to 90 minutes depending on the patient, and results are achievable with one session. However, it’s often recommended to have frequent dental visits to maintain the desired tone.
The Benefits of Laser Teeth Whitening
Highly Efficient
Laser teeth whitening is known for its ability to achieve significant whitening results in a shorter amount of time compared to traditional whitening methods. With just one session, you can noticeably brighten your smile by several shades.
Precision and Speed
Laser technology allows for precise targeting of stains and discolouration, ensuring even and consistent whitening results across all teeth. Traditional teeth whitening methods, on the other hand, tend to require more time to achieve the desired results. For laser teeth whitening, you can achieve a brighter, whiter smile in just one session.
Safety
When performed by a qualified dental professional, laser teeth whitening is considered a safe and non-invasive procedure. The use of protective measures such as dental dams and protective eyewear helps minimise any potential risks. Moreover, there are no side effects to worry about.
Longevity
With proper oral hygiene and maintenance, the results of laser teeth whitening can last for several months to a year or more, depending on individual habits and lifestyle factors. You can always return to achieve the tone and colour you want for your teeth.
Considerations and Precautions
While laser teeth whitening is generally considered safe, it’s essential to take certain precautions to minimise any potential risks:
Professional Supervision
Always undergo laser teeth whitening under the supervision of a qualified dental professional who has received specialised training in cosmetic dentistry.
Protective Measures
Your dentist will take appropriate measures to protect your gums, lips, and surrounding tissues from the whitening gel and laser light. This may include the use of dental dams, protective barriers, and protective eyewear.
Pre-Treatment Evaluation
Inform your dentist of any pre-existing dental conditions, allergies, or sensitivities you may have. They will conduct a thorough evaluation to ensure that you are a suitable candidate for the procedure.
Post-Treatment Care
Follow your dentist’s post-treatment instructions carefully, including recommendations for oral hygiene, dietary restrictions, and follow-up appointments. Avoid consuming staining foods and beverages and refrain from smoking to prolong the longevity of your whitening results.
How to Maintain Your Bright Smile
To maintain the results of your laser teeth whitening treatment and keep your smile looking its best, consider maintaining it with home teeth whitening kits or take the following tips:
Practice Good Oral Hygiene: This includes brushing at least twice every day or after meals, flossing as regularly as possible, and rinsing your mouth with mouthwash to help get rid of plaque and prevent stains from forming.
Limit Staining Foods and Beverages: Minimise consumption of highly pigmented foods and beverages such as coffee, tea, red wine, and berries, which can contribute to tooth discolouration.
Quit Smoking: Smoking not only poses serious risks to your oral and overall health but also stains teeth and accelerates the yellowing process. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do to maintain a bright smile.
Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular dental visits and professional cleanings to monitor your oral health and address any issues before they worsen. Your dentist can also provide touch-up whitening treatments as needed to maintain your desired shade.
Closing thoughts
Teeth whitening can be effective in getting rid of stubborn stains that brushing and some at-home whitening solutions may struggle with. However, you should still have realistic expectations about what you can achieve with this kind of treatment.
Always consult with your dentist to see if laser teeth whitening is a good option for you. If it isn’t there are still several other alternatives.
