Laser Whitening
Laser whitening (also known as power whitening) starts with a standard plaque removal done by the dentist so that the gum line is clean of any debris. Then a peroxide gel is smoothed onto the teeth. With laser teeth whitening the gel is a higher strength formula than the home based kits, this allows the laser to whiten the teeth more effectively. A light is shone on the teeth to activate the whitening properties of the peroxide gel. This can take up to an hour and will generally whiten teeth up to ten shades 
. The light energy accelerates the whitening process. Various different energy types can be utilized, ideally a high energy source is best so that the peroxide is highly excited, however not to much so that the pulp is made too hot, as this may cause inflammation. An argon laser can be used as opposed to an arc lamp or an infrared laser. When using an argon laser chemical burns are not a concern. As opposed to other technique such as gel bleaching.
The cost of the procedure varies but is more than the home kits which are available. It is generally the most expensive option, but it is also the most effective treatment, as well as being the quickest way to getting better looking teeth. There are various laser teeth whitening equipment manufactures including Rembrandt and Zoom!. The procedure can be reapplied if more whitening is required, though generally this will only be the case when the teeth were originally very stained.
Next, a special light is used to activate the gel. The process usually takes about an hour, and whitens teeth by as many as 10 shades. Costs for the procedure vary from dentist to dentist, but, typically the results from professional laser teeth whitening manufacturers such as Rembrandt and Zoom! are very similar. It is a non-invasive procedure
In more extreme cases, the laser teeth whitening procedure may need to be repeated to address deep stains caused by medications such as tetracycline. Laser whitening may also be combined with Home teeth whitening to improve the whiteness of teeth even further, in this case the home part would be done after the laser part.
Step by step description of laser whitening
- Initial consultation this will outline the procedure
- The plastic retractor is softly placed in the mouth, this holds the mouth in position.
- A protective dam or gel is placed on the gums to shield them.
- The bleaching gel is put on the teeth and the laser is activated for ten minutes.
- The whitening gel is then taken off and then reapplied a few extra times dependant upon the scale of the whitening required
- The plastic retractor and dam are removed
- The mouth is rinsed out
- Take care directly after the procedure to avoid citrus fruits which may cause sensitivity
After laser treatment
The tooth brightening can last for two years, but care must be taken with the teeth otherwise the tooth color can quickly revert back to its darker form. Care should be taken with diet, many food substance will cause more wear and tear to the teeth than others. Food stuffs to avoid include tea, red wine, coffee, curry sauces and citrus fruits. Lifestyle should also be looked at in particular smoking can cause significant staining to teeth so should be avoided if possible. Oral hygiene is also essential for the effects to be longer lasting. Generally brushing twice a day and flossing are recommended. Also regular visits to the dentist are recommended so that any problems can be headed off and a professional clean can be gained.