If you do not like the stains on your teeth, then you do have the option of speaking with a cosmetic dentist about treatment options that can help to remove the stains. Your options will likely include dental whitening, and you can pick from a few different whitening techniques. These include laser whitening in most cases. Laser whitening is often more expensive than traditional whitening completed with a basic gel and a tray. Keep reading to learn about what makes the treatment different so you can make an informed decision about your cosmetic dental care needs.

The Sessions Are Quick

If you speak with your dentist about whitening, then you may have the option of receiving a tray treatment in the office or taking the whitening gel home with you to use in the evening. If you decide on an office treatment, then you may be surprised to learn that you need to remain in the office for several hours. This is necessary because the gel must oxidize to release stains and this takes some time.

A laser whitening treatment will typically take between about 15 and 30 minutes, so it is much shorter. This allows you to schedule the whitening on your lunch break or just after work. This is obviously not possible with the traditional treatment. 

The more timely treatment is possible with the way that the peroxide gel is oxidized after application. Laser treatment involve the use of a UV light that speeds up the oxidation and forces the debris from the tooth enamel much more quickly. 

The only drawback to the treatment is that you can only schedule about one appointment every few months. However, only a few scheduled treatments are needed for you to see optimal results.

Shorter Periods Of Sensitivity

You may know that dental whitening treatments can cause some sensitivity issues. This is completely normal, because some of the tooth dentin will become exposed when the stains and debris are removed from the teeth. The whitening compound itself can irritate the teeth and gums and cause some discomfort. 

If you opt for a laser whitening, then the sensations you feel may be a bit more pronounced than if a general tray treatment is completed. However, since fewer treatments are needed and the whitening agent only needs to be applied two times instead of numerous times, you will feel discomfort for a much shorter period of time.

If you want to reduce your discomfort, then make sure to use a toothpaste made for sensitive teeth a few weeks before and after your laser whitening appointments. Check websites like http://www.cresthillfamilydental.com for more information.