Laser Teeth Whitening - What's the Hype?
Could your teeth do with looking a few shades lighter? If you find yourself hiding your teeth behind your lips due to embarrassment, then there's hope. Get the bright white smile you deserve with laser teeth whitening. However, it is important to note that there are several pros and cons for laser teeth whitening.
Fortunately there are several new direct-to-consumer companies online that offer teeth whitening services. When you sign up for the treatment, it costs you less than 10% of what you might pay for professional treatment of the same caliber.
Is this treatment worth the money? Does it work, or is it a scam? We'll unpack everything you need to know about the pros and cons of this treatment in this post.
We have also given an in-depth Smile Direct Club teeth whitening review for those who are interested specifically in that product.
Our Other Top Teeth Whitening Recommendations
Crest 3D Whitestrips Sensitive Teeth Whitening Kit
These Crest Whitening strips are our top pick for those with sensitive teeth
AuraGlow Teeth Whitening Kit
All-in-one teeth whitening solution that includes accelerator light
How Does the Laser Teeth Whitening Treatment Work?
Yes, thousands of Americans go for laser teeth whitening each year. If you have severely dirty and stained teeth from years of smoking, it might take several treatments to restore your smile.
However, the results are lasting, and you can expect a brilliant white smile after completing your treatment. In some cases, the procedure takes less than 30-minutes. You're in and out of the dentist's office with a new smile in less time than it takes to watch your favorite TV show.
Pros and Cons For Laser Teeth Whitening
Pros
Cons
Laser Teeth Whitening - Dental Screening
The dental screening with your dentist determines if you're an eligible candidate for the treatment. The dentist checks your reaction to the bleaching agent, and they assess the shade of your teeth to determine how many treatment sessions they think you'll need.
If they feel you qualify, they'll book an appointment for the whitening treatment. You'll also receive a quotation and most dentists requirement full settlement in cash after the completion of the procedure. Some might ask for a 50% deposit after you conclude the screening process.
The Whitening Treatment
On the day of the treatment, your dentist sits you in the chair. They then apply a dental protectant to your gums. They coat your teeth in the bleaching agent and use a laser device to activate the gel, causing the bleaching effect.
The dentist waits a few minutes, removes the gel, and does touch-ups on areas they think need more work.
It might take them several passes before they get the effect they desire. After they feel you have a consistent whitening effect, they suction off the bleaching formula, and you have a set of beautiful white teeth.
Your Follow-Up Appointment
The first follow up will be a month or two after your first appointment to see how your teeth are doing.
Unfortunately, laser teeth whitening is not a permanent treatment, and you'll need to schedule biannual follow-ups to keep your smile white, bright, and beautiful.
How Long Does the Laser Teeth Whitening Procedure Last?
Laser whitening treatments will require maintenance, and you'll need a touch-up every six months, depending on your lifestyle choices.
For example, if you drink red wine and smoke cigarettes, you'll probably need another appointment sooner than someone with sober habits.
The Final Verdict
Overall, we wouldn't recommend laser whitening treatment, especially given the other options available in the market at a fraction of the cost. It's effective, but it's expensive.
Fortunately, there's a low-cost solution that produces similar results, and you don't need to go to your dentist's office for an examination – sound good?