What Is Laser Teeth Whitening?
Let’s admit it, everyone wants bright white teeth so they can smile with confidence. The most commonly used method for teeth whitening is the use of a hydrogen peroxide solution. As teeth whitening has become more popular, cosmetic dentists have started using lasers to accelerate the chemical reaction of the whitening solution. However, this new teeth whitening method is different from using hydrogen peroxide alone, as it must be performed in a specific clinical setting under the supervision of a specialized dentist.
How Is Laser Teeth Whitening Performed?
After a gum barrier is applied to protect your gums from coming into contact with the whitening agent, the whitening solution is applied to each tooth. When performed in a hospital or dental clinic, a hydrogen peroxide gel with a concentration between 25% and 40% is used. For at home teeth whitening, the concentration is usually between 7% and 10%. A Zoom light is then used to act as a catalyst for the hydrogen peroxide reaction, which helps make your teeth whiter.
Some people may have darker teeth because stains are deeply embedded in the tooth enamel rather than being only on the tooth surface. Hydrogen peroxide releases oxygen molecules that help remove deep stains from the teeth. The Zoom light acts as a catalyst to accelerate the release of oxygen molecules, causing stains to break down and fade, making your teeth whiter.
Avoid Colored Foods and Drinks After Treatment
After you have had professional teeth whitening, you should avoid eating or drinking colored foods and beverages. If they cannot be avoided, it is recommended to drink through a straw, as your teeth will be especially sensitive to stains during the first seven days after whitening.
Teeth Whitening Is Not Suitable for Everyone
Teeth whitening may not always work for you, as genetic factors may be involved. Some people may have darker teeth than others because stains have been present on the teeth for many years, while others may have naturally darker teeth due to genetics.
Sometimes, after teeth whitening, you may not see a noticeable difference, or the difference may be only slight. The results vary from person to person.
Follow Up Treatment
Similarly, the duration of the results also varies from person to person. Since the foods and drinks you consume may stain your teeth, you may need to undergo teeth whitening regularly every six months to keep your teeth white. At the same time, you may also be able to use at home teeth whitening trays once a month.
Tooth sensitivity is quite common, especially during the first two to three days after teeth whitening. Although this symptom varies from person to person, your dentist may provide medication or gel to help reduce tooth sensitivity. However, you should see your dentist immediately if your gums turn white or become painful.
Things You Should Keep in Mind
Laser teeth whitening in a hospital or dental clinic usually takes about one hour. Multiple whitening sessions may also be needed to achieve your desired results. You will need to use at-home whitening trays regularly to maintain the results.
In addition, teeth whitening is not suitable for everyone. You should visit a dentist for a thorough dental examination before undergoing laser teeth whitening.
Reference:
Dental World
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