LaserSmile

Who Can Undergo Teeth Whitening?

As people age, teeth become discolored for many reasons, but the primary causes are consuming darkly colored food and drinks, and smoking tobacco. Virtually anyone who is dissatisfied with the color of his or her teeth may benefit from teeth whitening. While most stains will respond to whitening, yellow discoloration tends to yield the best results.

Who Should Avoid Teeth Whitening?

For fillings, crowns, or veneers, patients should know that teeth whitening will not work on the restorations. When dental work discolors, the restorations would need to be replaced. Many dentists will recommend teeth whitening for patients prior to having restorations placed, particularly cosmetic veneers and bonding, so that the new dental work matches tooth enamel at its brightest.
Because fewer treatments and less time are involved with LaserSmile treatment, patients tend to experience less sensitivity after the procedure, compared with both other in-office and at-home whitening systems.
Usually, dentists will not perform teeth whitening on patients who are pregnant or breast-feeding. Patients younger than 16 years of age are also not eligible for teeth whitening because the nerves within teeth are enlarged and chemical bleaching could lead to increased sensitivity during and after the procedure. Patients with teeth or gums that are especially sensitive may choose not to undergo whitening, because the procedure could worsen these conditions. Many whitening systems utilize peroxide gels, so any patient with an allergy to peroxide should avoid these systems. Teeth stains that are brown, gray, or purple may not respond well to chemical whitening. For these, a cosmetic dentist may suggest covering the teeth with porcelain veneers or resin bonding.

What Is LaserSmile Teeth Whitening System?

LaserSmile Teeth Whitening System was developed by Biolase, a dental and medical device company that specializes in laser technology. LaserSmile utilizes a laser, a handpiece, and a proprietary peroxide-based gel. Before whitening begins, the dentist or hygienist will protect the patient’s gums with a barrier. Next, the proprietary gel is applied to the patient’s teeth. The dentist then uses the handpiece to direct the laser onto the teeth to activate the gel. The laser is applied for bursts of 15 seconds, for up to a total of 16 minutes. Finally, the gel is rinsed from the teeth, and the barrier on the gums is removed.

What Are the Benefits of LaserSmile Teeth Whitening System Over Other Whitening Systems?

To begin with, LaserSmile is extremely safe, and it poses many benefits over other whitening systems. Unlike competing in-office whitening systems, LaserSmile requires only one treatment. In addition, the time required for LaserSmile is typically less than one hour (often 30-45 minutes), while other in-office whitening systems can take twice as long. Because fewer treatments and less time are involved with LaserSmile treatment, patients tend to experience less sensitivity after the procedure, compared to many in-office and at-home whitening systems.
LaserSmile can provide a dramatic whitening effect that lasts for years.

Who Can Perform LaserSmile Teeth Whitening?

LaserSmile Teeth Whitening must be performed in a dentist’s office with the appropriate equipment from Biolase.

How Should Patients Care for Their Teeth After LaserSmile Teeth Whitening?

Patients who have undergone LaserSmile teeth whitening should continue to practice good dental hygiene following the procedure, including brushing the teeth twice a day and flossing once a day. In addition to not using tobacco products of any kind, dentists typically recommend avoiding foods and drinks that may re-stain the teeth, such as tea, coffee, cola, red wine, dark sauces, and berries. Attending twice-a-year checkups and cleanings is imperative for continued good oral health.

How Long Does LaserSmile Teeth Whitening Last?

With proper dental hygiene, teeth whitening with LaserSmile can last for many years. Patients can seek re-treatment when teeth begin to discolor. Between sessions, ask your dentist whether at-home whitening is a good option for maintaining your bright smile.

Cary Prosthodontics

Cary Prosthodontics was founded in 1991 to provide the finest care to residents of Cary, Raleigh, Apex, Holly Springs, Fuquay-Varina, Morrisville, and surrounding areas. Our compassionate and caring prosthodontists are members of a number of professional associations, including:
  • American College of Prosthodontics (ACP)
  • Academy of Osseointegration (AO)
  • International Team for Implantology (ITI)
For more information about our services, contact our practice online or call (919) 858-8193 to speak to a member of our team today.

Visit Our Top-Rated Office

Are you looking for a dental practice you can trust to provide high-quality care? Our office is regularly rated five stars for the professional and friendly care we provide to our patients. To meet with one of our dentists and start your dental crown process, fill out our online form to request your consultation. You can also contact us by calling our office, serving Cary and Raleigh, NC, at: 

The Proof is in Our patients

Linda D.
Staff is professional but caring, more so than other medical offices I’ve been to. When you walk in they actually greet you by name. They remember details of your previous visits, which speaks to a great office staff. And Dr. Lim does his best to see that you have a good outcome. Thanks to all!
Joyce Th.
Was treated with so much respect from the Dr. and staff. I’m a very nervous person when it comes to having dental work done I can’t help it, but they made feel so comfortable so easy to explain to let them know why I was there. I couldn’t wait to tell my family and friends. Thanks
Jennifer Y.
Yet again, an EXCELLENT visit with Dr Koffard. The staff are so thoughtful and welcoming, professional and knowledgeable and I really appreciate the lightness of the spirit in the entire office; not to mention Dr Koffards’ effervescent nature. Thank you again for taking such good care of me. Oh! And congratulations on the new, roomy office space! It’s beautiful!
Megan F.
My doctor and the nurse were absolutely amazing . i have bad anxiety when it comes to mouth operations and they walked me through every step, everything was super quick and easy. I wish there was another way to thank the ladies who worked on me bc i have never been so comfortable.

Our Office

Monday

7:30 AM - 3:30 PM

Tuesday

7:30 AM - 3:30 PM

Wednesday

7:30 AM - 3:30 PM

Thursday

7:30 AM - 3:30 PM

Friday

Closed

Our office will be closed from December 24 to January 6th for the holiday season. We open at 7:30am on January 6th.
If you’re experiencing a dental emergency during this time, please call our office with the number below and you will be routed to one of our professionals. We look forward to seeing everyone when we reopen on January 6th!