Laser Whitening

Q. Is laser bleaching better than home bleaching?
A. Yes, in that stubborn stains can be addressed directly and a consistent balance of color can be achieved. Laser bleaching results are also immediate. Home bleaching is still very effective, it just requires more time to accomplish the desired results.

Q. How long does the whitening last?
A. Although some stain removal may be permanent, the average duration of the color change is from 1 to 3 years before any darkening is noticed. After that time, there is some color lapse, but not back to the original stained color. Recovering the whitened color generally takes only a few days of re-treatment. Some teeth have remained color stable for more than 7 years. If the cause of the staining is continued (such as smoking), the teeth will discolor more rapidly.

Q. What is the whitening process doing to my teeth?
A. The the whitening agent soaks into the tooth's dentin and enamel. It removes stains that have also soaked into the tooth, as well as changes the color of the inside of the tooth by an oxidation process.

Q. Can the laser hurt my gums or damage my teeth?
A. No. There is a gel applied to the gums which is hardened with a curing light to protect them throughout the process. The laser used to activate the bleaching agent is designed for this purpose and won't harm your teeth or protected gums. Naturally, care does need to be taken in the operation of the laser, but as used by a trained professional it is safe.

Q. How long does it take?
A. This visit usually takes about one to two hours and the most dramatic results occur in one visit.

Q. Are there any reasons I should not whiten my teeth?
A. Yes. Restorations (fillings such as composites, bonding, or crowns) do not change color. If you have many fillings on your teeth that show when you smile, they may become more noticeable (look darker) after the teeth get lighter. Your dentist will examine you and advise you as to whether the improvement from whitening is worth the cost and risk of replacement of those restorations.

Q. What does the whitening procedure cost?
A. The dental office will discuss the fee for whitening either one arch (top teeth) or both. Generally, the cost for all the teeth is less than the cost of one porcelain veneer for one tooth.

Q. Don't whitening toothpastes do the same thing as the professional dental whitening technique?
A. No. Toothpaste is primarily intended for stains on the outside of the tooth. The dramatic change in tooth color inside the tooth has not been duplicated by whitening tooth-pastes. Some of the toothpastes that contain peroxide may be used to help maintain white teeth after they have been lightened by the dental whitening technique. Other toothpastes are merely cosmetic and add white "paint" to the teeth, or are abrasive and actually remove good tooth structure. Your dental team will work with you to find the best fluoride-containing toothpaste and proper toothbrush habits to maintain your whiter teeth for a lifetime.