Laser Teeth Whitening v Professional Whitening Trays
Laser teeth whitening and professional whitening trays are a great way to brighten your smile! Here, we will review both options so that you can make an informed decision.
What are the differences between laser teeth whitening and professional whitening trays?
Laser whitening is an in-office procedure that is monitored by your Dentist and only takes from 30 minutes to an hour and a half, depending on your needs. You have probably heard of Zoom! Laser Whitening which is a very common brand used in many dental offices.
When you receive in-office laser whitening, the whitening solution is painted onto each individual tooth and a protective gel coating is applied to your gum line to protect the gum tissue from the laser. The laser is then directed at your teeth and heats up the peroxide solution (though you do not feel any significant heat), allowing the oxygen to penetrate the enamel surface more quickly than other whitening treatments.
The laser is the biggest difference between laser whitening and whitening trays. The laser expedites the entire process and is over within an hour and a half as opposed to trays that can take up to two weeks. Laser whitening is significantly more expensive than trays but for some, the immediate results and short time spent in treatment is the payoff.
Professional whitening trays use the same concentration of peroxide solution as laser whitening but are only used for 30 minutes to an hour each day for up to two weeks. This tends to be a better option for patients with tooth sensitivity since the process is much more gradual. Using the trays does take away the ability for your dentist to monitor your progress. It’s also important that you take care when applying the trays to make sure that no solution remains on your gum tissue while you whiten.
Are there any underlying concerns with the expedited process of laser whitening?
After receiving laser whitening treatment, some patients may experience “zingers” which can be uncomfortable but should only last a couple of hours. Heightened sensitivity is not uncommon with any whitening treatment but that should subside after a couple of days. Using a sensitivity toothpaste for a couple of weeks before and after whitening treatment can greatly reduce your risk of sensitivity.
There are some concerns with the lasting effects laser whitening may have on tooth pulp and tooth enamel; some worry that it erodes the enamel and can cause damage to the pulp.
Which whitening treatment is best for you?
Since both laser whitening and professional whitening trays achieve the same professional results, it all boils down to time and money! Laser whitening costs more but takes much less time and whitening trays cost less but take longer to achieve desired results.
If you are considering teeth whitening, make sure you speak with your dentist before beginning any treatment to make sure that you are a candidate for teeth whitening and that you select the treatment most appropriate for your needs and lifestyle.
More on Teeth Whitening : Risks of Teeth Whitening