How Laser Teeth Whitening Breaks Down Teeth Stains

Stained and discolored teeth are common cosmetic complaints. Laser teeth whitening is one way to whiten and brighten a smile. This procedure is done in a dental professional's office and is more effective than at-home whitening procedures. The teeth can get stained by a number of things, and using a laser-activated agent is a quick and effective way of removing stubborn stains that brushing and dental cleanings cannot get rid of.

Things that cause stained teeth

Teeth can get stained on the outside, which is referred to as extrinsic, or on the inside, known as intrinsic discoloration. Extrinsic stains are caused by things that are consumed, such as coffee, tea, red wine, colas, and berries. These stains are easier to remove.

Intrinsic stains are caused by other factors, such as genetics, aging, certain medications, medical conditions, and trauma. These stains are more difficult to get rid of, and laser teeth whitening is often recommended over other whitening methods.

Laser teeth whitening procedure

The entire whitening procedure typically takes around one hour. One session is usually all that is needed to get noticeable results.

Consultation

The dentist begins with a thorough dental examination and medical history review to determine if laser teeth whitening is appropriate. Good candidates are those who have good dental hygiene habits and no dental decay. Certain dental work, such as veneers and crowns, are not eligible for teeth whitening, as the materials will not respond to the process.

Optional teeth cleaning

A cleaning is not a required part of the process. However, if it has been a while since the last professional cleaning, the dentist may recommend it before whitening to get the desired results.

Preparation

To begin the procedure, the dental professional places a guard in the mouth to keep it open and to expose the teeth. A substance is applied to the gums to protect them from the burning and irritating effects of the whitening gel.

Gel placement and activation

Once the gum protector is formed and dried, the whitening gel is applied to the teeth. The laser uses a light to activate the gel. This helps the gel penetrate the teeth's enamel to begin breaking up the stains. The gel remains on the teeth for 15 minutes and then is removed. The dentist repeats these steps two more times to reach the desired shade. Once the procedure is complete, the dentist rinses out the mouth and removes the gum protection layer.

Aftercare

The teeth may be sensitive after laser teeth whitening, so cold and hot substances should be avoided for a few days afterward. Only clear liquids should be consumed for a minimum of two hours after the procedure, and dark-colored beverages and food should be avoided for at least 24 hours. The dentist may give other aftercare instructions to follow.