Laser teeth whitening treatments, as suggested by the name, are professional dental procedures that involve the use of a laser to whiten the colour of the teeth.

The procedure begins with the application of a whitening solution on the surface of the teeth. This whitening solution usually contains bleaching agents like peroxides and chlorides. This solution is left on the teeth for a few minutes. After that, the teeth are exposed to laser light for a few minutes. Laser light helps in activating the bleaching agents in the whitening solution.

While the teeth are under the laser light, they are closely observed for a change in the shade. The light is removed after the desired shade of the teeth is achieved. The solution is washed off the teeth after a few minutes and the patient leaves with a new dazzling smile.

Laser teeth whitening treatment has many advantages. The treatment is performed by a qualified professional and is completely safe. The results from the treatment are long-lasting. Even severely discoloured teeth can be whitened with the help of this treatment.

However, laser teeth whitening treatments may not be suitable for everyone as there are several factors that affect the treatment and can have an adverse effect on the health of the patient.

A good candidate for teeth whitening is someone with good oral health and strong teeth. Also, the patient should have no dental diseases and ongoing dental conditions as it could affect the results of the treatment.

Let us try to understand which patients not suitable for a laser teeth whitening treatment.

Sensitive teeth

Sensitive teeth could be caused due to any reason. When teeth are sensitive, they cannot tolerate contact with hot or cold foods and beverages. Strongly flavoured substances are also known to irritate sensitive teeth. They are primarily caused due to excessive consumption of acidic foods or using dental products that are damaging in the long run.

In a laser teeth whitening treatment, a solution containing bleaching agents is applied to the teeth which can irritate sensitive teeth and cause inflammation. When patients with sensitive teeth want to opt for the treatment, chances are the teeth may become even more inflamed and irritated than before. This is the primary reason why patients with highly sensitive teeth are not suggested to get a laser light teeth whitening.

Lightly discoloured teeth

A laser teeth whitening treatment is performed for teeth which are severely discoloured or heavily stained. Stains caused due to excessive wine consumption or excessive tobacco consumption are extremely hard to remove with the help of over-the-counter products generally available in the market, which is why for such stains, laser whitening treatment is suggested. However, for other stains like discoloration of teeth due to candies, coloured substances, tinting due to coloured drinks and juices, etc. normal dental whitening may be enough for re-whitening the teeth.

The discoloration is usually two types – extrinsic and intrinsic. The stains caused externally due to consuming products that tint the teeth are called extrinsic stains or discoloration. Products like coffee, wine, and tobacco are responsible for such discoloration if they are consumed on a regular basis. Extrinsic stains can be removed with the help of over-the-counter products like whitening toothpaste and strips.

Intrinsic discoloration is caused when the teeth are discoloured from the inside and not due to external factors. Such discoloration cannot be removed with the help of external OTC products like pastes and strips. Therefore, a laser teeth whitening treatment is suggested in such cases.

Children

Children’s teeth are much more fragile and weaker than the average adult’s teeth. A laser whitening treatment involves the application of harsh chemicals over the surface of the teeth as well as a strong laser. Children’s teeth are naturally sensitive and may become even more sensitive and fragile after the procedure. Also, the pulp chamber in the young teeth is much larger and wider than that of the average adult. Therefore, whitening solutions can cause irritation. Children are therefore suggested to opt for alternative teeth whitening treatments like teeth whitening strips, whitening toothpastes, etc.

Patients with restorations

 Patients who have previously undergone any dental procedures like dental crowns, fillings, implants, etc. are not suitable for laser teeth whitening treatment. The material out of which the dental tools like implants and crowns are made simply will not show any change in colour and will make the teeth appear uneven and discoloured.

Pregnant and lactating women

Pregnant women and lactating women are not recommended this procedure as the bleaching agents and the laser light are not considered safe. However, there is no official proof stating that the whitening treatment is dangerous for pregnant women. But, as a safety measure and to avoid complications, pregnant women are advised to opt for OTC whitening products and treatments instead of the laser teeth whitening.

Damaged teeth

Patients with dental diseases and conditions like cavities, decaying teeth, and broken teeth are not suggested to get this treatment. During the application of the whitening solution, the dentist may accidentally hurt the damaged tooth, even more, which is why this treatment is not recommended for damaged teeth. The patients are advised to get appropriate treatment for such dental conditions and then proceed with the laser whitening treatment to not damage the teeth further. If the patient continues with the procedure, the teeth may be injured.

Allergies

Patients are sometimes sensitive and reactive to the substances and chemicals used in a dental procedure. Chemicals like peroxides are responsible for causing allergies. If the patient is aware about such allergies, he should inform the dentist about it prior to the procedure. Also, if the patient has highly sensitive teeth, then they are advised against receiving a laser teeth whitening procedure.

The best way to ascertain whether you are a good candidate for laser teeth whitening is by getting a consultation with your dentist. After a thorough check-up, they will recommend the best teeth whitening option for you.