Bleaching Versus Laser Whitening
Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures today. People recognize the benefits that improved appearances can bestow on careers and personal lives. One’s self-esteem and confidence get a tremendous boost with a bright, pearly white smile. Clients also love the relative ease of getting the procedure, its affordable cost, fast, noticeable results, and noninvasive manner.
The most popular teeth whitening requested is in-office whitening, also called ‘professional bleaching’, performed in the clinic by your dentist. It can be accomplished within one session and may take an hour or less. Your gums are protected by a rubber shield or a gel, the whitening product (usually hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide) is placed in a special tray which fits into your mouth like a mouthguard. As peroxide is broken down, oxygen seeps into the enamel lightening its color. You may need two or three visits to the dentist while you continue the treatment at home.
Gaining in popularity is laser whitening or ‘power whitening’. Also using the rubber shield for protection, the bleaching product is painted onto your teeth. Laser is shone on the teeth to activate the chemical in the bleaching product. The light speeds up the reaction of the whitening product and the colour change can be achieved faster. It can make teeth up to five or six shades lighter and may take an hour in one sitting.
Which teeth whitening procedure is best for you?
While there are teeth whitening products that are easily bought over-the-counter, their effectiveness depends on the strength of the whitening agents. Instructions have to be followed properly, yet some may be ineffective. We are just concerned here about professionally administered whitening procedures.
Both professional bleaching and laser whitening can cause tooth sensitivity due to the high concentrations of their bleaching agents. That’s why strict adherence to proper procedure is observed, with precautionary measures like rubber dams and desensitizing agents.
However, laser whitening is a much quicker procedure and requires less dental visits. It provides higher grades of lightening that can be maintained by simple home care. Also, laser equipment is a precision machine requiring expert handling by the dentist who has to have special training for it. The cost of the treatment is a special concern, though. Laser therapy is a more expensive option than regular bleaching. Still, it is a popular option, the cost offset by its many benefits.
Safe and Efficient Laser Whitening in Lynnwood
Song Dental offers both teeth whitening procedures in Lynnwood. See us and know which one best suits your purpose. Either way, you’ll have excellent dental cosmetic work done for improved smiles.
