Laser Dentistry: Does Laser Whitening Damage Teeth?

As you age, your teeth begin to deteriorate and begin to lose their natural color. Besides the normal aging process, some foods and beverages like coffee, berries, and red wine can stain your teeth. Fortunately, there are different teeth whitening options. One is going to the laser dentist near you for laser whitening. Many people opt for this treatment as it has long-lasting results compared to teeth whitening kits

However, is laser teeth whitening safe for your teeth? Does the laser beam affect your teeth’s enamel and gums? We will answer these questions for you. Keep on reading to find out.

What Is The Laser Teeth Whitening Procedure?

When you have stained teeth and want to whiten them, you should visit the dentist’s office in Minneapolis. This is essential as dentist 55402 will examine your teeth and determine whether laser teeth whitening will be suitable. If it is, the first step is preparing your teeth. This involves professional teeth cleaning to remove any plaque or tartar on your teeth’s surface.

Next, the dentist places special coverings around the soft tissues in your oral cavity to prevent irritation by the gel applied to your teeth. After the dentist is done prepping your teeth, they apply a whitening gel on them. The most common whitening gel used contains hydrogen peroxide, which is safe to use for dental and medical procedures.

Once the gel comes in touch with your teeth, it starts to open pores on your teeth’s enamel. This essential process enables the gel to go below the teeth’s surface for better stain removal. Next, the dentist uses a laser machine to activate the gel’s whitening properties. The good thing about this procedure is that it only lasts for 15 minutes, so you can return to your normal routine afterward.

What Are the Benefits of Laser Teeth Whitening?

There is no swelling, discomfort, or pain during and after the treatment.

• It is a non-invasive procedure
• It is a faster method of whitening teeth when compared to using home teeth whitening kits
• Removes deep stains and discoloration.
• The procedure whitens dull teeth.

How Long Do the Effects of Laser Teeth Whitening Last?

Having provided you with the procedure of laser teeth whitening. You know that the whitening gel penetrates below the teeth’s surface. Because of this, the effects of the procedure are long-lasting compared to other methods like whitening toothpaste and whitening strips. But this does not mean the results will last forever: only for a few months to 3 years, depending on how well you take care of your teeth.

Other factors that will affect how long the results will last are:

• The type of lasers and whitening gel used.
• Your lifestyle habits: some foods and drinks stain teeth faster.
• The natural color of your teeth.
• How many times do you go for this treatment?

Are There Any Risks of This Procedure?

Despite laser teeth whitening having many benefits and being safe, it still has some risks. Some of them include:

• Loss of minerals and fluoride in the teeth.
• Damage of gums and irritation.
• Increased sensitivity to hot and cold drinks and foods.
• Damage to soft tissues and tooth pulp.

It is best to visit a certified dentist like the one in Holger Dental Group – Minneapolis to reduce these risks. This is because they are trained in performing such procedures and will minimize the risks.

Nevertheless, laser teeth whitening does not damage your teeth as they have enamel, a hard tissue. If you desire to maintain whiter teeth, you should watch what you’re consuming. Some of the foods and drinks you should reduce consuming include:

• Tea.
• Coffee.
• Red wine.
• Berries.
• Avoid using artificial food dyes.
• Beets.
• Soft drinks.

Additionally, brushing your teeth twice and flossing once daily is essential. These practices will ensure that there is no plaque build-up which can stain your teeth and lead to tooth cavities.

It is also essential to know that laser teeth whitening is not suitable for anyone. If you have any oral injury or completing orthodontic treatment, then laser teeth whitening is not the best teeth whitening treatment for you. In addition, laser teeth whitening is unsuitable for patients with exposed dentin or weak enamel, as the gel can erode the teeth. However, check in with your dentist so that they can advise you on the most suitable teeth whitening option for your teeth.