Hollywood has had a hand in many social fads and trends. Oftentimes, our desire to improve or alter our appearance stems from seeing others looking a particular way. Be it our clothes, hair, or our teeth, we all want to look and feel our very best. These days, brightening up our smiles is easier than ever thanks to advancements in dentistry.
One thing in particular that many people desire is a pearly white smile. This can be done in multiple ways, such as receiving porcelain veneers and laser teeth whitening in Okotoks. Visiting a dentist near you to receive professional teeth whitening in particular, is a great way to ensure that the treatment is done safely and that it lasts a long time.
If you’re looking for more information about teeth whitening in Okotoks or at a location elsewhere, contact our dental practice today. Our staff are here to all your questions and concerns and walk you through the process from start to finish so you know exactly what to expect.
What is Laser Teeth Whitening?
Laser teeth whitening is a dental treatment that’s done to illuminate your smile by using bleaching products.
Before receiving any form of teeth whitening near you, always be sure to book a consultation with your dentist first. They’ll be able to identify whether this treatment is the right course of action for your specific case. Your dentist will also discuss your level of tooth sensitivity, as the procedure can heighten it. They’ll most likely do a thorough examination of your teeth and take dental x-rays as well in order to create a detailed image of your oral health.
Once that’s done, and when it’s been confirmed that you’re a suitable candidate for laser teeth whitening, your dentist will prepare your teeth for the treatment. A rubber guard is used to keep your mouth open while they work. Your dentist will clean your mouth first, as bacteria and plaque can interfere with the whitening process if it isn’t removed. Then, they’ll apply the actual whitening gel to the surface of your teeth.
The whitening solution itself usually consists of hydrogen peroxide. A special laser is employed to activate the whitening process by means of heat. When the solution has sat on your teeth for a few minutes, your dentist will be wiped off, and then reapplied. This entire process will be repeated several times to brighten your teeth to your desired shade of white.
You may need to return to the dentist a few more times, as the effectiveness of the whitening treatment can depend on the current state of your teeth and how discolored they are.
A local anesthesia injection is not used, but should you require any additional care, don’t hesitate to let your dentist know. You deserve to be comfortable throughout the entire appointment.
It’s important to keep in mind that our teeth are not naturally pearly white. Rather, they range from a yellow-grey to a duller shade of white. So, the nature of your special treatment will most certainly differ from another person’s.
Receiving professional laser teeth whitening from a dentist in Okotoks is indeed effective and reliable, but it doesn’t replace daily brushing and flossing. If you make sure to practice good oral health care like brushing, coming in for a biannual checkup and cleaning, and avoiding foods and drinks that stain your teeth more than others like berries, soy sauce, coffee, and wine, your teeth will remain white for a good while.
Laser Teeth Whitening FAQs
Outlined below are some commonly asked questions about laser teeth whitening to help you have a better understanding of this cosmetic dentistry measure:
1. What are some of the advantages of laser teeth whitening?
The most obvious benefit of laser teeth whitening is that it visibly enhances your smile. The process removes stains, which can help boost your self-confidence too. You deserve to be proud of your smile as opposed to feeling embarrassed whenever you’re talking, laughing, or eating.
Laser teeth whitening is minimally invasive, and again, can be done in a single appointment. A large majority of dental clinics offer this type of treatment too, meaning that it’s accessible if you’re interested in receiving it.
Finally, since it is a professional service, it’ll be done correctly and safely. Dentists use high-quality tools and substances, so you won’t have to worry.
2. What are some downsides to laser teeth whitening?
Despite being a common service that’s offered to patients, laser teeth whitening can be expensive, especially since your dentist may wish for you to come back for a series of follow-up appointments if you want your teeth to stay white. This is why some people favor do-it-yourself whitening methods like whitening strips, toothpaste, or brushing with baking soda instead.
It’s not uncommon for some people to experience teeth sensitivity or gum irritation while the process is being done. However, these sensations do not last long and will fade.
In some cases, excessive whitening may damage your teeth. Always be sure to follow any instructions provided to you by your dentist to ensure that this doesn’t occur.
3. What does it cost?
Unfortunately, teeth whitening is not usually covered by dental insurance; you’ll have to pay for it out of your own pocket. The approximate cost of a single teeth whitening appointment is around $1000.
4. How does laser teeth whitening differ from zoom teeth whitening?
Zoom teeth whitening is quite similar to laser teeth whitening; however, it utilizes UV light to harden the whitening solution into place, making sure that it sinks below the enamel on the surface of your teeth.
Zoom whitening is also a quicker process but it is more costly. But regardless of what you choose, bother treatments will certainly enhance your smile.
Here at Cimarron Dental Wellness, we offer laser teeth whitening to all our patients. Call or visit our website to book a consultation to get started! We look forward to working with you!
