Options available for teeth whitening in Charlotte

Cosmetic dentistry involves teeth whitening procedures for people who want whiter teeth. Most dental practices offer two types of whitening: Laser teeth whitening and professional home whitening kits.


Teeth whitening procedures use a peroxide-based bleaching gel of varying strength. More peroxide in the gel means more power. Higher concentration gels are more effective at whitening the teeth, but they also pose a higher risk of causing side effects such as teeth sensitivity and damage to the surrounding gum tissue and lips.

Laser tooth whitening

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Laser tooth whitening is a procedure that uses a light-activated bleaching gel to whiten your teeth. The procedure usually takes about 1 -2 hours and produces high quality instant whitening results. Many dentists recommend that professional home whitening should follow laser whitening and they provide instructions on this.

As soon as the treatment is done, a shade guide will be used to measure how much whiter your teeth have become after the procedure. Laser tooth whitening provides instant results and can often be up to 12 shades lighter.

Professional home whitening kits

Professional home whitening kits contain a high concentration of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide and produce visible results in 1 to 2 weeks of prescribed use. Custom-fit trays keep your teeth soaked in whitening solution for a specified time. Your Charlotte cosmetic dentists will provide guidance on the use of the product.

Your teeth become quite sensitive immediately after this procedure and your dentist will advise you to avoid certain food and drinks for a while. Your dentist may offer fluoride treatment following teeth whitening to reduce this effect on sensitivity. Sensitivity should not last more than 48 hours, but if symptoms remain after this, you should contact your dentist.

Professional home whitening kits offer more permanent results over a longer period, while laser tooth whitening provides instant results. Combining the two methods provides the perfect solution for both immediate and long-term whitening results. Ask your trusted Charlotte cosmetic dentists at Ballantyne Center for Dentistry about teeth whitening options and what is best for you.