Laser Teeth Whitening
![Laser Teeth Whitening - Dra. Luz Marely García Alvarez Laser Teeth Whitening - Dra. Luz Marely García Alvarez](https://cdn.whatclinic.com/dentists/mexico/nuevo-progreso/dra-luz-marely-garcia-alvarez/thumbnails/d8d5043392abe765/blanqueamiento.jpg?width=174&height=232&background-color=0xffffff&operation=pad&float-x=0.5&float-y=0.5&rotate=0&crop_x=0&crop_y=0&crop_w=1&crop_h=1&hmac=8ed4aabe9023d1a2aad2f3bac0345dfccff57688)
Vital Whitening
The most common type of vital tooth whitening uses a gel-like whitening solution that is applied directly to the tooth surface. This product contains some form of hydrogen peroxide.
Tooth whitening can be done in the dentist's office or at home. In-office (chairside) whitening allows your dentist to use a more powerful whitening gel. A specialized light or laser activates the gel and allows to happen faster.
In-office whitening usually takes 30 to 90 minutes. You will need one to three appointments. The number will depend upon the method used, how severe your stains are and how white you want your teeth to be. Different types of stains respond differently to the treatment.
First, your dentist will apply a substance that covers and protects the gums around the teeth. Then, the whitening agent, usually hydrogen peroxide, will be placed on the teeth.
Some whitening agents are activated by a laser light, special lights or by the heat from these lights. After the whitening agent is applied, the dentist will shine the light on your teeth. If your teeth are badly discolored, your dentist may suggest that you continue the bleaching process at home for a few days or weeks.
For in-home whitening, your dentist will take impressions of your upper and lower teeth and will make custom mouthpieces to fit you. The mouthpiece needs to fit well. A close fit helps the whitening agent remain in contact with your teeth.
At home, you will fill each mouthpiece with a whitening gel your dentist provides. You will wear the mouthpiece for several hours every day. Many people achieve the amount of whitening they want within a week or two. However, you may need to wear the mouthpiece for four weeks or longer.
You also can buy whitening products over the counter. They contain a weaker whitening agent than the products you can get from your dentist. Therefore, whitening may take longer. The whitening ag