Learn More About Zoom Teeth Whitening

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At George Psaltis, DMD, we are thrilled to offer our patients Zoom in-office teeth whitening. Zoom is a bleaching process widely used throughout the country and around the world to lighten discoloration of enamel and dentin. Tooth discoloration may result from drinking coffee, tea, cola and red wine; or from smoking. The aging process also can stain and darken your teeth. The Zoom in-office tooth whitening procedure uses the Zoom Advanced Power Chairside Lamp – said to accelerate the bleaching process – to activate the 25 percent hydrogen peroxide whitening. As the hydrogen peroxide is broken down, oxygen enters the enamel and dentin to bleach the stained substances, leaving the structure of the tooth unchanged.

Zoom Tooth Whitening Consultation and Treatment Planning

Before deciding whether Zoom in-office teeth whitening is right for you, we will will conduct a comprehensive examination of your teeth and gums to ensure proper health, as well as talk with you about your oral hygiene and lifestyle habits to determine if you will benefit from whitening. This will help us agree on the whitening product or technique that’s best for you.

We may also may require you to undergo tooth whitening if you are planning other cosmetic dental procedures, such as veneers or composite bonding, in order to ensure a better match between the restoration and your natural dentition, or after the removal of braces. Depending on the condition of your teeth and your goals for changing the look of your smile, tooth whitening may not be your best option.

During your consultation and evaluation, we will also will note existing dental work, such as crowns and veneers, which will not respond to conventional whitening agents.

The Zoom In-Office Whitening Procedure

The complete procedure takes less than an hour, but a regular teeth cleaning is recommended prior to the actual Zoom teeth whitening session. The procedure begins with a short preparation to cover the lips and gums, leaving the teeth exposed. Dali will then apply the Zoom hydrogen peroxide whitening gel, which works together with the Zoom light to penetrate the teeth and break up the stains and discoloration. The gel remains in place for 15 minutes while the light is activated. During this time, you can relax and listen to music.

The gel is applied for three 15-minute sessions of light activation, for a total treatment time of 45 minutes. Individuals with a strong gag reflex or anxiety may have difficulty undergoing the entire procedure. Immediately afterwards, a sensitivity-reducing fluoride paste-gel is applied to the teeth.

Zoom Whitening Aftercare: Maintaining Whitening Effects

To help maintain the whitening effects of your Zoom teeth whitening treatment, we advise you to avoid certain foods and beverages, or consume them in moderation to avoid staining your teeth. This includes tea, coffee, red wine, cola, etc.

Additionally, tobacco products will stain teeth, even after whitening treatments. As such, we strongly suggest you quit using them. Maintain an appropriate oral hygiene (brushing and flossing) regimen to prevent stains from reforming, and see us regularly for scheduled teeth cleanings.

We also recommend toothpastes containing whitening agents to maintain the results of the procedure.

Zoom Whitening Considerations

Sensitivity during treatment may occur in some people. The Zoom light produces minimal heat, which is usually the source of discomfort. Rarely, minor tingling is experienced immediately after the procedure, but always dissipates.

As with other tooth whitening products, Zoom whitening is not recommended for children under 13 years of age, or for pregnant or lactating women. Also, it is important to remember that whitening treatment may not be as effective for some people as it is for others.

 

Give the office a call at (212) 501-8777 to make your appointment for Zoom in-office whitening today!

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