A bright, white healthy smile can boost self-confidence and make you feel more comfortable showing off your teeth. With so many different options for teeth whitening, though, you might be unsure about which is best for you. Your dentist may offer several different options, including laser whitening, so how can you decide? The following guide will help you make a choice to give you the smile you want.

How to Decide Between Laser or Traditional Teeth Whitening 

1. Effectiveness 

Traditional teeth whitening methods will remove stains and leave your teeth several shades lighter. However, methods like strips and toothpastes only work for removing surface stains, meaning your teeth may not be as white as they could be. Laser teeth whitening can remove deeper stains, as the laser helps the hydrogen peroxide cleaning solution penetrate the tooth enamel to attack the stain at a molecular level.

2. Speed

Many of the teeth whitening options offered at dental offices today are fast, providing visible results in just one session. Home whitening products take the longest, often requiring treatment over several days to produce results. Most people find that a single laser whitening treatment can brighten their teeth by several shades; at most, deep stains may require two sessions for full results. Other treatment options might require several sessions to achieve the same results.

3. Side Effects 

One reason laser teeth whitening has become so popular is that it does not have the potential for side effects that strips or gels have. During the procedure, your dentist will protect your gums and tongue with a rubber shield and neutralizing gel. This eliminates the possibility of irritation and bleeding that can happen with other methods. 

Side effects are especially common when you use over-the-counter or home treatments. The bleaching agents in these products can be too abrasive, especially when used incorrectly, and damage tooth enamel and cause bleeding gums. Professional laser treatments are more gentle and safer for your dental health. 

4. Longevity 

How long the results of any teeth whitening procedure lasts depends on your oral care habits. Avoiding food and drink that cause stains, brushing and flossing daily, and seeing your dentist for cleanings all help preserve the results. There is evidence, though, that laser treatments offer the longest-lasting results, because they remove old stains as well as newer surface stains. With proper care, it's possible for your results to last for years. 

Gie yourself the gift of a white, healthy smile with  professional teeth whitening at the The Montana Center for Laser Dentistry PLLC. This dental practice has two convenient locations in Whitefish and Kalispell, MT, and offers both general and cosmetic dentistry designed to keep your mouth healthy and your teeth strong and beautiful. They rely on advanced laser technology to ensure the most comfortable experience for every patient. Schedule an appointment in the Whitefish office by calling (406) 862-1010 or in Kalispell by calling (406) 730-1010. Learn more about the practice online.