Teeth Whitening

Introduction

Stained, browned or discolored teeth may embarrass many people. Teeth whitening may be an option for these individuals to brighten up their smile. There are quite a few at-home – do-it-yourself teeth whitening options that include toothpastes, gels or strips. Laser therapy, also known as light-activated teeth whitening, is the newest used method for teeth whitening. It is also one of the most expensive alternatives of teeth whitening. Laser beams are basically used over the tooth surface that has been activated suing bleaching solutions.

Procedure

Laser beams are essentially energy in the form of light. The procedure may be undertaken at the dentist’s office. General condition of the tooth, sensitivity, signs of damage to enamel, caries, preclude the patient from undergoing laser tooth whitening.

Any evident gum or teeth disease, decay, caries, cavities need to be treated before undertaking teeth whitening procedures. The teeth are first activated by being coated by a hydrogen peroxide solution. Alternatively carbamide peroxide gel may also be used. The laser beam then acts as a heat source and enhances the effect of tooth beaching agents. The results may show up to a 10 shade lightening of the color of the teeth.

A single session may last up to an hour. Usually results may be immediately visible. However in most patients more than one session may be needed with touching up of the places that have been missed at the initial whitening session.

Considerations

Laser teeth whitening involve few risks and patients are advised to check with a qualified dentist before treatment. However, most people who opt for this therapy must be made aware that the whitening process is not permanent. They are usually asked to avoid certain beverages and foods like coffee and smoking that stain the teeth. If they adhere to such diets the whitening may last longer else it may fade in around a month, sometimes with adherence of a healthy prescribed diet once a year touch up may be needed.

Usually slight tingling or irritation of the gums may be seen as common complications, these usually resolve by themselves. Individuals allergic to the bleaching agents may develop more severe complications.

Teeth whitening are not advised in children below the age of 16 since their pulp chamber, or nerve of the tooth, are enlarged until this age. Whitening may irritate the pulp or cause it to become sensitive.

Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers are also advised against teeth whitening. Those who have sensitive teeth that tingle or ache when they take anything that is hot, cold, sweet or acidic also need to refrain from teeth whitening procedures. Allergies to bleaching agents may also preclude whitening in these individuals.

Any evident gum or teeth disease, decay, caries, cavities need to be treated before undertaking teeth whitening procedures. Finally all people who opt for the procedure must be counseled before hand to prevent unrealistic expectations from the procedure. “Dazzling white teeth” may not always be the result of deeply stained teeth. Usually, dentists may take pictures of teeth before the procedure and compare with the results to show the level of improvement.