Laser Teeth Whitening: The Future of Teeth Whitening: Advanced Laser Whitening at Laser + Holistic Dental

Your Questions Answered: The Science Behind a Brighter Smile

1. How does laser teeth whitening work?

Traditional whitening methods rely on chemical oxidation to break down stains within the porous structure of teeth. With laser teeth whitening, the whitening gel is activated by a specialised Er:YAG laser, which absorbs into the gel molecules and does not directly penetrate the hard tissue or tooth pulp—eliminating thermal damage. The laser manufacturer ensures a safe and effective whitening process with up to 10x faster results than conventional whitening systems.

2. Why is laser teeth whitening preferred to LED whitening?

While LED whitening is commonly marketed as an effective method, it only provides surface-level whitening and does not penetrate deep stains. Additionally, LED whitening relies on external light exposure, which can lead to uneven whitening results and tooth damage. Our Er:YAG laser technology ensures deeper absorption of the whitening gel, leading to more even, long-lasting results without overheating the teeth or causing discomfort.

3. How do cheap whitening products damage enamel and cause sensitivity?

Many over-the-counter whitening products contain highly acidic formulations with chemical preservatives and/or poor-quality bleaching agents, which can weaken enamel over time. These products often:

• Erode the natural tooth enamel and white resin fillings by increasing surface porosity, making teeth more vulnerable to more staining, decay and breakage.
• It causes extreme tooth sensitivity due to improper pH balance, leading to irritation of the tooth’s nerve known as pulpitis. Often pharmaceutical pain relief is needed.
• Contain unstable chemicals that degrade quickly, making them ineffective and may cause harmful reactions if swallowed.

At Laser + Holistic Dental, we only use pH-neutral, clinically tested whitening gels that are safe, effective, and designed to protect your enamel while delivering outstanding whitening results.

4. Will this treatment make my teeth sensitive?

Sensitivity is a common concern with traditional whitening methods due to prolonged exposure of the enamel to high concentrations of peroxide. However, our whitening system is clinically proven to be sensitivity-free*. We use a leading brand that formulates its gel with a 100% aqueous base and neutral pH, ensuring a pain-free experience while preserving enamel health.

However, sensitivity with laser teeth whitening varies by individual. While our whitening system is clinically proven to minimise sensitivity, factors like enamel thickness, dental health, past whitening, diet, and conditions like erosion or gum recession can still influence each patient’s experience. Laser + Holistic Dental have special protocols in place to handle these possible uncomfortable situations.

5. Is laser teeth whitening suitable for all teeth?

The effectiveness of whitening depends on the natural mineral composition of your teeth. While most people experience significant brightening, teeth that have tetracycline staining, fluorosis or have undergone root canal treatments may require additional targeted care, such as internal whitening or restorative options like veneers, ceramic crowns or bonding.

Before undergoing whitening, it’s important to address any necessary dental work. Treatments such as composite restorations or decay management should be prioritised first to ensure a healthy foundation. For cosmetic procedures like crowns, veneers, or bridges on front teeth, whitening should be completed beforehand so the final restorations match the desired tooth shade. Keep in mind that permanent crowns, veneers, and bridges cannot be whitened, making it essential to finalise your whitened tooth colour before these treatments.

Learn more about what teeth whitening works & what doesn’t.

6. Can laser teeth whitening remove deep stains?

Yes! Unlike traditional whitening, which primarily affects surface stains, laser teeth whitening can penetrate deeper into the tooth structure to remove embedded stains. This makes it an ideal option for those with discolouration due to coffee, wine, smoking, or aging.

7. I have white spots on my teeth. Will laser teeth whitening make them more visible?

In the initial stages, white spots may appear more prominent as the surrounding tooth structure brightens. However, with continued whitening, these spots tend to blend in naturally, creating a more uniform shade over time. If needed, additional cosmetic treatments can be recommended to further enhance the balance of your smile.

8. Can I whiten just one discoloured tooth?

Absolutely! We offer targeted internal whitening for single discoloured teeth, that have been affected by root canal treatment. The whitening agent is placed inside the tooth and activated with the laser, ensuring it matches your surrounding teeth for a natural, cohesive look. Several repeated sessions may be required.

9. How long does the laser whitening process take?

Our chairside Laser Teeth Whitening session takes approximately 1.5 hours, including pre-treatment preparation and post-treatment care. For best and long-lasting results, we pair our chairside treatment with a take-home whitening kit, allowing you to maintain and enhance your whitened smile over time.

Whilst the take-home whitening kit is optional for our patients, we do highly recommend it for optimal and long-lasting results. It allows patients to maintain their bright smile between professional treatments, enhancing and prolonging the effects of their in-clinic whitening. It has been proven that the combination of the two processes does yield a superior whitening result.

10. How can I maintain my bright smile after the treatment?

To extend the longevity of your whitening results, we recommend avoiding highly pigmented foods and drinks such as:

• Coffee and tea
• Red wine
• Cola and soft drinks
• Curry and turmeric
• Tomato-based sauces
• Dark berries
• Soy sauce

For optimal maintenance, we suggest using our take-home whitening kit every 6-12 months and scheduling regular professional cleanings. This ensures your smile stays bright, fresh, and healthy year-round.

11. How soon can I eat or drink after whitening?

For optimal results, we recommend avoiding any staining foods or beverages for at least 48 hours after treatment. Stick to a “white diet”—foods like chicken, rice, pasta, bananas, and dairy. For dark-coloured beverages like coffee or red wine, please use a straw to minimise contact with your teeth. Rinsing your mouth afterwards can also help prevent staining and maintain a brighter smile.