How Does Laser Teeth Cleaning Work?
December 6, 2011 Dental, Teeth
A visit to the dental hygienist usually involves using picks to scrape away plaque or tartar. This can be uncomfortable, especially if you have a build up. Laser teeth cleaning has been around for a while, but most patients are put off by the high cost.
Today the cost of laser teeth cleaning has fallen and it’s much more affordable. It’s also associated with whitening teeth as well as cleaning them. So how does it work? Firstly no anaesthetic is needed as it’s a completely pain free procedure.
The procedure begins with a laser that sterilises the gum tissue surrounding the teeth. It destroys any bacteria without the usual scraping which can make the gums bleed. An ultrasonic scaler is then used to get rid of any plaque that may have built up around the teeth. To finish off the dentist will polish the teeth and then rinse them to get rid of any residue.
Laser teeth cleaning is also used for teeth whitening. After initial cleaning, a peroxide based gel is applied to the teeth. The surface of the tooth or enamel is very porous, so it’s easily absorbed into the dentine. This layer is where the colour of the tooth is formed. Smokers tend to have a yellow tinge to their teeth, as well as those who like to drink red wine and coffee.
A laser is used to heat the gel and this activates the bleaching agent. Laser teeth cleaning can make the teeth up to 10 shades whiter, however this depends on badly stained the teeth are. Sometimes several treatments are needed. The results can be amazing and you will leave the dental surgery smiling at everyone you meet!