Your smile is one of your most distinguishing characteristics, and it is oftentimes one of the first things people notice about you. That is why a healthy smile is so important; it can potentially contribute to a greater sense of overall well being and a higher self esteem. Having clean, white teeth is key to a healthy smile. But the measures taken to maintain the whiteness of your teeth are not merely just cosmetic dentistry. Teeth whitening contributes to the removal of plaque and stains that can weaken enamel and leave your teeth vulnerable to further damage.

 

Fortunately, there are a wide array of options available for whitening your teeth. From at-home techniques such as hydrogen peroxide, whitening trays, and whitening strips, to in-office procedures, you’ll surely be able to find a tooth whitening method that works for you.

One of the most popular, and arguably more effective, ways to

whiten your teeth is with laser teeth whitening. Typically, laser teeth whitening involves a hydrogen peroxide-based gel that is applied to the teeth by your dental professional. The dentist then exposes the teeth to laser energy. The laser “excites” the hydrogen peroxide, or speeds up its molecules, which is essentially what removes the stains. So, what makes laser teeth whitening a more popular option than other whitening methods? Let’s explore some of the benefits.

Whitening strips and special toothpastes can only remove surface stains. Laser teeth whitening, however, penetrates deep to remove stains at their core, even if they go deeper than theenamel. This is due primarily to its laser itself, and how it triggers the hydrogen peroxide in such a way that it attacks the stain on a molecular level.

Laser whitening can dramatically whiten your teeth in just one session. While several sessions may be needed to experience the full effect, patients often report seeing a difference of seven to eight shades in just the first session. That means your smile is significantly whiter after just one 30 to 60 minute session. At-home whitening solutions and other products often need to be applied daily for several hours or overnight, for a duration of two to four weeks, before patients start seeing results.

Laser teeth whitening is non-invasive. There are no appliances or additional equipment used that can cause irritation or bleeding of the gums, and no after-effects of laser whitening. Furthermore, a lot of the bleaching products used in over the counter at-home procedures can be too abrasive and damage the enamel. In fact, few, if any, at-home teeth bleaching products carry the ADA seal of approval. Laser teeth whitening is safer, gentler, and done with expert supervision.

With any whitening procedure, the longevity of the whitening effects depends primarily on your daily oral care routine. Brushing your teeth at least twice daily, using mouthwash, and following any other steps your dentist has recommended prevent the buildup of plaque and can keep stains from settling. While this is key to a white smile that lasts longer, laser teeth whitening can last for years, because it removes old stains as well as stains you’ve accumulated since your last cleaning.