After so many long winter months drinking hot coffee, tea, and cocoa, now is the perfect time to look into professional teeth whitening – just in time for spring and summer! Though some light stains can be lifted with store-bought products, long-term stains may need professional whitening.
There are a few different options for professional teeth whitening. The most common methods are laser teeth whitening and teeth bleaching. Both options can help significantly whiten teeth, but there are some differences between the two.
Laser teeth whitening involves a dentist first applying a clinical-strength peroxide paste to teeth, and then heating it up with the laser. Depending on the severity of the staining, laser whitening may take a few treatments before reaching the desired whiteness.
Bleaching teeth uses whitening trays that can be custom-made to your own dental structure. These trays, like laser whitening, use peroxide to lift out stains. The peroxide releases oxygen that goes through the enamel and breaks down stains. Whitening trays take a few hours to work, where a laser treatment session would typically take less than an hour.
Beyond understanding the basic differences between the two, it’s important to consult with your dentist at Dakota Dental about which whitening approach would work best for you. The team at Dakota Dental can consult with patients about which teeth whitening option will be the safest and most effective for them.
In addition, it’s important to maintain a healthy smile by avoiding staining foods and drinks and rinsing your mouth out with water after having something that can cause stains. Making regular dental appointments and brushing and flossing regularly can also help combat stains and plaque buildup and keep your smile looking its best.
To get a white smile and healthy teeth, make your next appointment at Dakota Dental today – and get ready to show off your smile!