Introduction to Laser Gum Bleaching
Laser gum bleaching, also known as gum depigmentation, is a cosmetic dental procedure that lightens the gumline using laser technology. Over time, gums can become darker due to smoking, genetics, aging, or certain medications. Laser gum bleaching removes this excess pigmentation to enhance gum color and create a brighter, more uniform smile.
What Causes Gum Darkening?
Common culprits of gum discoloration include accumulation of melanin pigment over years of sun exposure, tobacco use, poor oral hygiene leading to buildup along the gumline, genetics making one predisposed to darker gums, certain medical conditions, and side effects of some medications like oral contraceptives.
How Does Laser Gum Bleaching Work?
An experienced dentist uses a specialized dental laser designed specifically for gum bleaching to target melanin and break up pigmentation along the gumline. The laser light breaks up excess pigment clusters without damaging healthy gum tissue. Performed properly, laser treatments remove discoloration permanently with outstanding accuracy for uniform, naturally pink aesthetics.
Benefits of Laser Gum Bleaching
Compared to older abrasive methods, lasers offer controlled precision, with settings customized per patient for optimal light energy levels, duration and wavelengths for gentle, effective pigment removal. The non-surgical procedure is considered extremely safe with virtually painless recovery when performed by dental specialists. Results unveil permanently brighter, youthful-looking gums.
What Results Can You Expect?
Ideal candidates with moderate gum discoloration see dramatic results in just one 20-60 minute in-office treatment. Severely darkened gums may require two to three bleaching sessions spaced weeks apart. When avoiding renewed staining habits, the full gum brightening effect can last five years or longer before needing a simple touch-up session. Properly cared for results blend beautifully with both natural and cosmetically whitened teeth.
Caring for Your Gums Post-Bleaching
Proper oral hygiene after laser gum bleaching ensures optimal outcomes last over time. Gentle brushing twice daily, daily flossing, antimicrobial rinses, regular dental cleanings every six months, and avoiding cigarettes or other staining elements keeps your renewed gumline resistant to future darkening or discoloration issues.
What Factors Cause Gum Darkening?
Years of accumulated melanin is the primary reason healthy gums grow darker, exacerbated by UV sun exposure, tobacco smoking, poor plaque removal accelerating buildup along gum edges, certain medical conditions, genetics, and occasional side effects of contraceptive or blood pressure medications. Consulting a dentist determines exact causes.
How Does Laser Lightening Work?
Applied directly along discolored gumlines, the precise dental laser breaks up deeper reservoirs of melanin pigment clusters. The absorbed light energy actively targets and destroys pigment present in gingival epithelial cells, permanently removing unsightly darkening without hurting surrounding oral tissues. Customized settings provide optimal results.
What Benefits Does Laser Bleaching Offer?
In contrast to older methods, lasers offer unparalleled accuracy in pigmentation removal. The pinpoint technique eliminates only pigmented gum tissue without damaging healthy areas nearby. Adjustable wavelength, duration and energy settings maximize patient comfort. Non-surgical treatments mean no cuts, stitches or extensive recovery too.
What Results Should You Expect from Treatment?
For moderate gum discoloration, a single 20-60 minute in-office bleaching session often provides dramatic brightening visible immediately after. Those with severe darkening along the full gumline may require 2-3 graduated treatments spaced several weeks apart to lift all concentrated pigment staining before achieving uniform gum aesthetics.
Proper Care After Your Laser Procedure
Avoiding cigarettes, UV light and other staining elements post-treatment preserves achieved gum bleaching for up to 10 years. Gentle twice daily brushing plus daily flossing removes bacteria before it accumulates into plaque along freshly unveiled gumlines. Anti-microbial dental rinses add extra protection too. See your hygienist regularly as well.
Considering Gum Bleaching? What to Look for in a Provider
When exploring laser gum rejuvenation, the right dental provider determines ultimate safety, experience and results. Verify their expertise in the latest light-based dental procedures and laser-specific training. Ask how many successful gum bleaching cases they have personally performed. Ensure they use variable wavelength technology designed for patient comfort.
Overview of What to Expect During Treatment
The initial appointment assesses current gum discoloration while reviewing medical history to ensure lasers are appropriate. Precision dental laser equipment and protective gear get positioned before treatment begins. Patients report feeling only tolerable warmth during several minutes of exposure per treated area. Sensations are manageable, but discuss any discomfort immediately.
What’s the Recovery Like After Gum Bleaching?
Typical post-procedure effects like minor gum swelling, light surface soreness or limited bleeding when brushing teeth tend to dissipate within 48 hours. Avoiding hot and hard foods/beverages is wise temporarily. Follow all aftercare directions closely regarding pain relief, oral hygiene, ointments and prescription mouth rinse use to enable proper mucosal healing.
How Much Does Laser Gum Bleaching Cost?
Overall laser gum lightening fees range £500 to £1,500 depending on number of treated teeth and severity of initial discoloration. Bayswater Dental Surgery Clinic offers laser gum bleaching in London performed by award-winning cosmetic experts starting at £850 per arch. Contact them today for affordable treatments and financing options to renew your most vibrant smile.