Laser Teeth Whitening and Teeth Sensitivity to Staining

You may have heard about laser teeth whitening, but do you know how the process works. Understanding this treatment will help you know whether it is the right method of removing stains from your teeth. This procedure can restore your smile and help you to feel happy with your appearance. It is helpful to be aware of possible side effects and how these may impact your teeth in other ways. Your dentist can also be a good resource for information.

The importance of good oral hygiene

Some people can be prone to having discolored teeth due to genetics. Other people have stains on their teeth because of the foods and beverages they eat and drink. But often, the need to get laser teeth whitening is due to a person’s poor dental habits. Brushing and flossing is an effective way to keep stains from accumulating on teeth.

People of all ages should start brushing with fluoride-based toothpaste as soon as teeth emerge. This should occur at least twice a day, especially after meals and at night before going to bed. Flossing daily will also remove food particles that leave sugars and starches on the teeth. It is also helpful to rinse with mouthwash each day. Regular teeth cleaning appointments at the dentist’s office are also critical to maintaining white teeth.

How laser teeth whitening works

To whiten teeth with lasers, the dentist will have the patient come into the office for one or two visits. Each appointment will last between 30 and 60 minutes. The dentist gets the patient comfortable in a dental chair and prepares the whitening solution. The main ingredient is hydrogen peroxide, which the dentist puts on the person’s teeth. The laser activates the chemicals, which penetrate deep into the teeth and remove the stains.

Possible challenges: sensitive teeth

Patients who have sensitive teeth may experience discomfort during the laser teeth whitening procedure. In this case, the patient should inform the dentist ahead of time that this is an issue. The hydrogen peroxide may heighten the sensitivity. Using different whitening agents may be a possibility. Lessening the treatment time may also help.

How to reduce sensitivity after removing stains

After getting laser teeth whitening treatment, patients may experience sensitivity to hot or cold stimuli. To combat this, the person should be cautious when eating foods of extreme temperatures. There are also toothpaste products available in stores that can ease sensitivity. Also, some patients may come back to the office for a second whitening treatment. For people with sensitivity concerns, the second visit may not be necessary. Instead, sticking to one appointment may be enough to change the color to the desired shade.