FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How safe is laser whitening?

Laser whitening was approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) in March of 1996. The hydrogen peroxide used in the bleaching process has been used in dentistry for over 20 years. The "blue Light" Argon Laser which we use is soft tissue and tooth friendly and does not cut or harm teeth. Our office has safely performed over 1,000 laser treatments with no known tooth or gum damage. 

Is the procedure painful and are there side effects?

The procedure itself is generally painless and requires no anesthesia. An occasional twinge or tingling may be felt but these are usually mild and of short duration. Less than 10% of patients may experience a mild sensitivity or dull ache. They usually last less than 24 hours and is usually controllable by taking aspirin or ibuprofen. 

How white will my teeth get?

There is no universal answer as the type and amount of staining will affect results. Extrinsic (external) stains such as coffee, tea, nicotine, red wine, dark colas, aging, etc. are readily removed resulting in noticeably whiter teeth. Intrinsic stains from tetracycline, flourosis, decalcification and other discolorations occurring during tooth development are much more difficult as these are deep inner stains. Noticeable lightening will result but the basic stain coloration normally remains. Every case is unique and is evaluated prior to treatment. That is the purpose of the consultation and discussion of "expected" results prior to treatment. 

How long will it last?

Stains that are removed are gone forever. However, depending on lifestyle and oral care they may reoccur. Some people may never need to re-lighten their teeth, while most may need occasional touch-ups. Using your maintenance trays and whitening toothpaste should keep them white for as long as you use them. 

Can I treat again to get them whiter?

Each treatment results in lighter teeth but with diminishing results. The amount and type of stain determine how much lighter. Darker teeth may require multiple treatments or using your whitening trays to get their whitest. However, there is a saturation point at which excessive "over bleaching" can result in enamel damage. We will not furnish you enough gel for this to happen without scheduling an evaluation appointment. 

Will whitening affect my crowns or fillings?

The whitening process will not harm or weaken existing restorations. Laser whitening will only clean-up existing crowns of fillings but will not change their color or shade. It is possible that they may need to be replaced to match the lighter natural teeth. 

Will my teeth stain more easily after the laser treatment?

Your teeth will stain at the same rate regardless of whether you whiten or not. However, after treatment you are more aware of the shade of your teeth and stains are more visible on whiter teeth. 

How many teeth do you whiten?

From molar to molar (excluding molars), which normally means 10 upper and 10 lower teeth. 

How does the laser compare with bleaching trays?

Both are effective and will give good results when properly used. The laser procedure shows results in one hour that may take wearing trays 1-3 weeks to achieve. Also, the laser is in the doctor's control whereas the trays are under the patient's control. It takes discipline, patience and there is usually more discomfort with the trays. Approximately half the patients we treat with the laser have tried trays, and for one reason or another have chosen to get the laser treatment. If you could lose 10 pounds in one hour instead of dieting for 1-3 weeks to achieve the same 10-pound loss, which one would you choose? The biggest advantage of the laser is instant gratification, which our low cost makes possible for the same price most dentists charge for the trays alone. 

Why are your fees so low?

Whitening is our only business. We offer low rates to build our practice and make it affordable, so that we can perform 4-5 procedures per day versus the 1-2 per week for most dentists.