3 FAQs About Laser Whitening Of Discoloured Teeth

There are various ways through which the problem of tooth discolouration can be dealt with. These include everything from DIY whitening solutions such as brushing teeth with baking soda, to booking an appointment with the cosmetic dentist for laser whitening.

Laser tooth whitening is considered among the most effective ways to get back shiny white teeth and that perfect smile. This article provides answers to a few questions that dental patients often have in relation to the procedure.

Is Anaesthesia Required For Laser Tooth Whitening?

In a large number of cases, cosmetic dentists will undertake laser whitening without the need for anaesthesia. This is because laser whitening is often a painless procedure.

A large number of dental patients think that anaesthesia is necessary for laser whitening because they fail to understand how laser whitening works.  Laser whitening involves the use of laser equipment to produce light.  This light is used to enhance the effect of peroxide used as a bleaching agent on the patient's teeth. There's often no pain associated with this procedure and this is among the many advantages associated with it.

Is This A Viable Option For Children With Tooth Discolouration?

Unfortunately, laser whitening is often not recommended for young patients. This is because many of these tend to have the pulps of their teeth closer to the exposed surface within the mouth.  As such, chances of a child experiencing severe tooth sensitivity after the whitening procedure are relatively high. Other tooth whitening options (e.g. the installation of dental crowns and veneers) would be better alternatives for young patients.  

What Are Some Other Advantages Associated With Laser Whitening?

In addition to the painless nature of the procedure, laser tooth whitening is associated with the following advantages:

• Speed: The speed with which results can be seen with laser whitening is often responsible for its preference over other tooth whitening options. Unlike whitening gels and strips that have to be used for some time before the result becomes visible, laser whitening provides visible results almost immediately after the procedure.
• Side effects: A large number of patients who go for laser whitening often experience increased tooth sensitivity as the only side effect of the procedure a few hours after leaving the dentist's office. In a large number of patients, this sensitivity wears off after some time.
• Follow-up: After the procedure, patients don't have to re-visit the dentist for follow-up and for monitoring-related activities as is the case with other tooth whitening options (e.g. the installation of veneers).

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