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Does LED Teeth Whitening Damage Enamel?

It’s no secret that having a bright, white smile is a great confidence booster. And there’s certainly no shortage of teeth whitening options on the market. From whitening strips and at-home serums to dentist-only products, there are more ways than ever to get the smile you’ve been dreaming of. One of the most popular options is LED teeth whitening. By combining LED lights with powerful whitening serums, dentists can brighten your teeth by up to 15 shades in just 20-30 minutes. But, if the treatment is so effective, does LED teeth whitening damage enamel? In this article we’re going to find out how whitening products work and whether they damage your teeth, enamel and gums.

How Does LED Teeth Whitening Work?

LED teeth whitening uses a mix of hydrogen peroxide serum and a bright LED light to break down the discolouration on your teeth. This chemical reaction is due to oxidation caused by the hydrogen peroxide, with the LED light serving as a catalyst that speeds up the process. Using LED lights reduces the amount of time treatment takes to just 20-30 minutes.

While you’ll only spend 20-30 minutes in your dentist’s chair, the effects of the whitening procedure last for up to 24 hours after the hydrogen peroxide has been applied. The hydrogen peroxide serum is absorbed into your teeth and will continue to break down the staining caused by food, drinks and cigarettes, even after the LED light is turned off.

Does LED Teeth Whitening Damage Enamel?

No. LED teeth whitening can have some side effects – like temporary tooth sensitivity – but it won’t damage the integrity of your teeth or enamel. With that said, we recommend consulting your dentist before using any whitening products. Regular teeth whitening products may damage your teeth and gums, leading to sensitivity, cavities and poor gum health.

Your dentist will be able to recommend a treatment program that helps achieve the smile you want without affecting your oral health. As part of the process we’ll assess the your teeth and gums. That allows us to choose products that can whiten your teeth without causing discomfort or damage. We’ll also provide take-home kits to help you care for your teeth after whitening. This prolongs the effectiveness of the treatment and can help with managing any sensitivity.

How Long Will Your Teeth Stay White?

LED teeth whitening won’t make your teeth permanently white. You can expect the effects to last anywhere from 6 months to 2-3 years, depending on the products used. But, teeth become stained and yellow due to everyday eating, drinking and brushing habits. That means your bright smile will slowly fade and you may need a follow-up treatment at a later date.

You can prolong the effects of LED teeth whitening with a take-home kit provided by your dentist. Be mindful that overuse of teeth whitening products can cause sensitivity or damage your teeth. At-home whitening products should only be used according to your dentist’s instructions.

How to Reduce Teeth Sensitivity After Whitening

One of the most common side effects of LED whitening is temporary tooth sensitivity. This sensitivity can last anywhere from a few hours to several days, depending on the products used. Your dentist will provide instructions on how to care for your teeth over the coming weeks, and you may receive a take-home kit that includes special toothpastes and whitening products. You can also help to reduce your teeth’s sensitivity by:

  • Following your dentist’s instructions for after-care
  • Using a sensitivity toothpaste
  • Switching to a soft-bristled brush
  • Avoiding cold food and drinks
  • Taking a break from any whitening products or toothpaste you normally use

Whitening should only cause mild tooth sensitivity. Contact your dentist if you experience any pain after LED teeth whitening.

Call Camira Dental to Book Professional Teeth Whitening Ipswich!

Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic treatments currently available. It’s a great way to brighten your smile, and it’s completely safe when conducted by a professional dentist. If you’re wondering “Does LED teeth whitening damage enamel,” come in and have a chat with the team at Camira Dental! Camira Dental is a dental clinic offering professional teeth whitening Ipswich wide. We offer a number of whitening treatments, and we’re happy to develop a plan to help you get your smile to where you need it to be. Our dental assistants are well-versed on whitening products and are happy to answer any questions you have about our treatment options. You can contact us online to make an appointment, or call us to find out more about our services!