Tooth whitening by laser, bleaching teeth, whiten enamel

Teeth whitening is more common than ever, not just among the A-list. Simple, quick methods mean you can now get gleaming gnashers with hardly any side effects.

Target: Healthy teeth (usually natural ones only) so a dental examination is necessary beforehand.
How does it work? A paste containing microcrystals is spread onto the surface of the teeth. The laser beam increases the temperature of the teeth by about 8°C, activating crystals which intensively polish the teeth. This technique can be uncomfortable or even painful for people who are sensitive to hot and cold sensations.
Post-treatment: Discomfort in the teeth and/or gums might last for 2 or 3 days. It's best to avoid coffee, tea, tobacco, or anything that may make the teeth darker or cause new stains and ruin the effects of the treatment.
Result: Instantly spectacular! your teeth will dazzle with natural whiteness.
Price: From £500. Not available on the NHS.

Note: A gentler method using a halogen lamp can give you the same results. The choice of the shade is defined with the practitioner. He applies a peroxide gel onto the teeth and the light diffused by the lamp only increases their temperature by 2°C, making the treatment much more bearable for people with sensitive teeth. Because it often requires several sessions, this can work out more expensive.