Having sparkling white teeth is an asset. They make your smile look so much better and make you look more attractive in general. But aside from its aesthetic appeal, having white teeth can be associated with being healthy.

According to www.sjpdental.com, there are many factors that stain your teeth and make them yellow. Among them are your overall dental care practices, the type of food you eat and your age. Smoking also contributes to teeth yellowing.

Technological advancements have made it easier and faster for us to achieve sparkling white teeth. Laser teeth whitening is a state-of-the-art procedure in dental cosmetics that dentists use to whiten teeth. It is fast, effective and painless.

What exactly is laser teeth whitening?

The procedure for laser teeth whitening consists of two steps. First, the dentist cleans the teeth to remove plaque and germs that will help prevent tooth decay and cavities.

The second step is the application of a whitening solution and the execution of the laser treatment. The use of a laser speeds up the chemical reaction of the whitening solution. The laser releases oxygen ions from the whitening solution, which gently lifts stains from the teeth.

Significant results can be seen after the first session but some people may need to have several sessions depending on the discoloration of their teeth.

Advantages of laser teeth whitening

  • Effective – Laser teeth whitening procedures can remove even deep-seated stains, which can make your teeth 6-8 shades lighter than the original color.
  • Fast – Unlike other whitening procedures that require several sessions, a laser quickly triggers the hydrogen peroxide in the whitening solution. You will see immediate results after the first session.
  • Non-invasive – Laser whitening procedures will not cause any pain or discomfort and does not require any anesthesia. The procedure won’t cause any gum bleeding or irritation and have no bad after-effects.
  • Longer lasting – The effects of the procedure can last for years, provided that you take good care of your teeth and avoid eating highly colored food.

Disadvantages of laser teeth whitening

  • Expensive – The procedures uses advanced technology so expect that it will be pricey. On average, patients who want to undergo the procedure have to spend around a thousand dollars. However, as it becomes more popular, expect prices to plummet.
  • Tooth sensitivity – Although the procedure is non-invasive, some patients have experienced temporary teeth sensitivity after getting the treatment. The sensitivity usually subsides after a few days.
  • Not for everyone – There have been recorded cases where the treatment didn’t work for some patients and they ended up getting crowns or veneers.

If you cannot afford laser whitening procedures, there are many over-the-counter whitening products available in the form of toothpaste, whitening strips and rinses. These whitening products, however, require daily application over a long period of time.

At the end of the day, it is up to you if you choose to undergo laser whitening treatment or go for a more economical alternative. What is important is the quality of the end result and if it makes you happy.

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