Laser Teeth Whitening

Laser teeth whitening (also known as “power whitening”) is one of the newest and yet the most effective way to bleach your teeth. When you see a contestant on American Idol who suddenly has white teeth then you know that they have had laser teeth whitening.

Where Is It Available?

There are many types of teeth whitening that can be performed at home such as using the gel, strips or even toothpaste. However, laser teeth whitening can only be obtained so far in a professional setting by a qualified dentist. This is because there are dangers if the light is not used correctly.

Peroxide

The first stage of getting your teeth “lasered” is to apply a special gel to your teeth. This gel contains an active ingredient, either hydrogen peroxide or another chemical that contains hydrogen peroxide.

When hydrogen peroxide breaks down chemically it produces water but also has a bleaching effect on whatever it is in contact with. During professional whitening, it works to break down the stains on your teeth that come mainly from smoking or from drinking drinks such as red wine and tea.

Protection

One advantage of having this treatment done in a professional setting is that a protectant is applied to your gums. This protectant is usually another gel but sometimes a rubber gum shield is fitted.

This prevents the hydrogen peroxide from touching your gums. While it is safe for your teeth to come into contact with this chemical, it can irritate the gums and even cause chemical burns.

The “Laser”

Though the term “laser teeth whitening” has stuck, no actual lasers are used during the process.

Instead, your dentist will shine a special light, such as a high intensity halogen lamp or LED, directly onto your teeth. This may take up to an hour to work to its full potential. However, the effects are well worth it and it is not unusual to obtain an end result of teeth that are five or six shades whiter than before.

Alternatives

Laser teeth whitening is the most effective and also the quickest method of whitening the teeth. However, it is also the most expensive and will set you back somewhere in the region of $500.

Alternatively, you can use a home kit. This contains a similar gel but with slower results. Strips are also a popular option and are normally used each night for a period of two weeks.