Are you are one of countless adults who would like to have a brighter smile? Perhaps your teeth are showing a yellowish tinge or simply do not look as white as you would like them to be. Whether the discoloration is due to the use of medication, from smoking or from consuming certain stain-causing foods, you may have considering teeth whitening. If over the counter methods such as at-home gels and toothpastes have failed to bring results, you might want to consider a dental procedure known as laser teeth whitening. Here are the easy-to-understand answers to questions you may have pertaining to laser teeth whitening:
1. What Does Laser Teeth Whitening Involve?
The laser teeth whitening procedure involves the use of a special argon or CO2 laser and a whitening bleach. The bleach typically consists of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. The laser is used to quicken the results of bleaching the stained or discolored teeth. The laser will trigger the response of the bleaching power by heating it. Every tooth will be treated, so the results will produce an identical color match of each one. This procedure is performed at the office of your dentist or cosmetic dental specialist.
2. Who Is a Good Candidate For This Procedure?
Men and women who are dissatisfied with the degree of whiteness of their teeth or who have some degree of discoloration may want to have their teeth whitening by a laser procedure. Although it is less time-consuming for those who do not wish to wait it out, laser teeth whitening tends to be more costly. To learn if you might benefit from this cosmetic dental procedure, consult with your oral care professional. He or she will perform an evaluation of your teeth and gums to determine if the procedure is right for you.
3. How Will the Dentist Protect Sensitive Teeth and Gums?
If you are one of many who suffer from sensitive teeth and gums, you may have concerns about the procedure. Be assured that a qualified and experienced dentist will use every precaution to ensure you are comfortable and your gums and teeth are protected. Your gums will be covered using a soft, rubber-like material for protection. A desensitizing paste or gel may also be applied to your teeth and gums prior to the procedure. After the procedure, your dentist may recommend the use of special toothpastes for sensitive teeth and gums.
4. Are There Any Risks Involved With This Procedure?
Some individuals may experience tooth sensitivity for a period of time following the procedure, even when the above mentioned precautions are taken. Because laser teeth whitening is a relatively new method, there may be some risk of damage to the tooth pulp as well. You should discuss these risks with your dentist.
5. How Long Does the Procedure of Laser Teeth Whitening Take?
This typically depends on the range of discoloration on the patient's teeth. Severe discoloration or yellowed teeth may require more than one whitening session. In any case, each treatment session will typically take about 60 minutes or less on average.
6. What Is the Average Cost of Laser Teeth Whitening?
Laser teeth whitening is considered to be a cosmetic procedure. That said, in most cases, insurance will not cover any part of the cost. Average costs may typically range approximately one thousand US dollars. Costs may vary, so you might want to get a few estimates and consultations beforehand.
7. How Does the Patient Maintain the Bright Smile After the Laser Treatment?
It is important to take some measures to ensure yellowing and stains do not return after having laser teeth whitening. For one thing, refrain from drinking too much coffee, tea and red wine, all of which may stain the teeth. Also, avoid consuming stain-causing foods such as blueberries and pasta sauces. Don't smoke or use tobacco products, as this may also cause yellowing and stained teeth.
Talk to someone like Greeley Dental Health for more information.
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