Whithening Q&A
What is Zoom! teeth whitening?
Zoom! is a bleaching process that lightens discoloration of enamel and dentin using a photo-active bleaching gel and a specially designed light. This is followed by 2 weeks of home bleaching using custom trays and a gel we will give to you. Current research showsthat this is the best way to get your teeth their whitest!
How much does Zoom! whitening cost?
Our normal fee is $600, however for a limited time we are reducing the fee to $495 . This includes the Zoom! procedure, home whitening trays and bleaching gel totake home. This fee is subject to change.
Am I a candidate for whitening and how do I get started?
A recent dental examination, and dental cleaning is necessary before Zoom! whitening. We are happy to provide these services for you in our office. Untreated cavities, or gum disease would prevent Zoom! whitening.
What causes tooth discoloration?
There are many causes. The most common include aging and consumption of staining substances such as coffee, tea, colas, tobacco, red wine, etc. During tooth formation, medications like tetracycline, other antibiotics or excessive fluoride may also cause toothdiscoloration. Tooth color like hair color and eye color, is governed by heredity.
Does whitening work for everyone?
Some colors of teeth respond better to bleaching than others.Yellow teeth have the best response. Gray somewhat less.Teeth with very dark gray-brown tetracycline type bands, the leastOur experience has shown however, that most people regardless of the initial color of their teeth will have significant noticeable lightening if they properly follow the whitening routine.
Can it damage my crowns or bonding?
No.
Can it lighten my crowns or bonding?
Unfortunately, the color of your crowns cannot be changed. The colorof your bonding theoretically will not change. However, we have seen somebonding become lighter, probably due to oxygenation of stains in the pores ofthe bonding material. If you have bonding and we lighten your teeth, thebonding may have to be redone to match your new lighter teeth.
Is whitening safe?
Yes, extensive research and clinical studies indicate that whitening teeth under the supervision of a dentist is safe. In fact, many dentists consider whitening the safest cosmetic dental procedure available. As with any tooth whitening product, Zoom! is not recommended for children under 13 years of age and pregnant or lactating women.
How long do the results last?
The color change of the teeth is relatively permanent. Over time, some slight darkening will resume due to aging and external factors. Regular dental cleanings and meticulous oral hygiene is very important in maintaining your new brighter smile. A bleaching touch-up for two or three days twice a year, immediately following a dental hygienist visit, will keep your teeth as white as possible.
How does the Zoom! In-Office System work?
The Zoom! light-activated whitening gel's active ingredient is Hydrogen Peroxide. As the Hydrogen Peroxide gel is broken down, oxygen enters the enamel and dentin, bleaching colored substances while the structure of the tooth is unchanged. The Zoom! light aids in activating the Hydrogen Peroxide and helps it penetrate the surface of the tooth. A study has shown that use of the Zoom! lamp increases the effectiveness of the Zoom! gel by 33% or more, giving an average improvement of eight shades*.
What does a patient experience during the Zoom! In-Office procedure?
During the procedure, patients may comfortably relax watch or listen to music. Many actually fall asleep. Individuals with a strong gag reflex or anxiety may have difficulty undergoing the entire procedure.Are there any side effects?Some people experience temporary increased tooth sensitivity to cold during treatment. These symptoms disappear within 1-3 days after interruption or completion of the treatment. Occasionally, the gums may become slightly irritated.
How is exposure to the Zoom! light controlled?
The Zoom! procedure requires that all soft tissue in and around the mouth be protected. The clinician is required to monitor the procedure to insure any exposed skin or tissue is isolated and protected. Protective eyewear is required during the procedure. Light sensitive individuals including those undergoing PUVA (Psoralen+UV Radiation) therapy or other photo-chemotherapy, as well as patients with melanoma, should not undergo the Zoom! In-Office procedure. Also patients taking any light sensitive drugs or substances, whether over-the-counter, prescription or homeopathic, should consult their primary physician prior to procedure. Anyone who is not eligible for Zoom! In-Office for these reasons may be an excellent candidate for take-home whitening with bleaching trays.
How long does Zoom! In-Office Whitening take?
The complete procedure takes just over an hour. The procedure begins with a preparation period followed by 45 minutes of bleaching. A five minute fluoride treatment completes the procedure (a cleaning is recommended prior to the actual Zoom! Whitening session). The custom home bleaching trays are then fitted, and home bleaching gel is given to the patient.