Teeth whitening is one of the most popular dental services available today. It helps to brighten your smile by removing stains caused by smoking, coffee, tea, or the natural aging process. There are several ways to whiten teeth, including trays, laser treatments, and in-office options. One popular choice is Zoom teeth whitening, which employs a unique light-activated gel for fast and noticeable results, but it has some critical differences from other whitening techniques.
Before opting for Zoom, your dentist can help ensure you are a suitable candidate and ready for the procedure. Many patients feel the cost justifies the results, but you should take your time and confirm that Zoom is the right choice for you. If you want to undergo the Zoom teeth whitening procedure in Hawthorne, CA, contact us or schedule an appointment with The Hawthorne Dentist.
What is Zoom Whitening?
Zoom is a bleaching dental treatment designed to lighten the discoloration of your teeth’s dentin and enamel. A qualified professional performs this procedure in a dental office, making it ideal for individuals seeking assistance with home treatments.
The name comes from the Zoom Advanced Power Chairside Lamp used during the process. This technology speeds the whitening by activating a 25% hydrogen peroxide solution. The lamp breaks down the hydrogen peroxide, allowing oxygen to penetrate the dentin and enamel, effectively whitening the stained areas of your teeth while keeping the tooth structure intact.
Why is Zoom Teeth Whitening Necessary?
Zoom whitening is essential for eliminating discoloration. Discoloration happens when your teeth change color, become darker, shift from white to another shade, or develop white or black spots in certain areas.
Here are some typical reasons for tooth discoloration:
- Beverages such as coffee, tea, and soda
- Poor dental health
- Smoking or using tobacco products
- Radiation and chemotherapy for head and neck
- Health issues affecting the tooth surface
- Side effects from medications like Tetracycline and Doxycycline
- Conditions in pregnant women that can affect enamel development
- Aging
- Dental trauma
- Family genetics
Understanding the Zoom Teeth Whitening Procedure
Zoom offers different whitening treatments. The dentist performs some procedures in their office, while patients complete others at home under the dentist’s guidance. All methods use a whitening agent with hydrogen peroxide. The most effective and fastest option uses LED light to enhance whitening.
Zoom WhiteSpeed treatments take 45 minutes at the dentist’s office. They use whitening gels and LED lamps to significantly brighten teeth.
Zoom QuickPro treatments are quicker, lasting only ten minutes at the dentist’s, using a whitening agent that stays on the teeth for thirty minutes.
Two at-home whitening options use trays filled with teeth-whitening gels, which can brighten teeth in about two weeks. Before the treatments, ensure the teeth are clean by being careful with what you eat and drink. Your dentist can suggest avoiding certain foods and drinks right after the process.
In-Office Zoom Whitening Options
Some of the in-office Zoom teeth whitening options include the following:
Zoom WhiteSpeed
Zoom WhiteSpeed is the most powerful Zoom treatment, brightening your teeth significantly in under an hour. It involves applying whitening gels and using unique LED lamps for forty-five minutes. This method can lighten the teeth by providing several shades.
A dentist might suggest a professional oral cleaning before starting the whitening. Then, the process includes:
- Applying whitening gel to the teeth
- Activating the LED light directed at the teeth
- Repeating this process several times
- Applying a gel to protect your enamel
After the treatment, a dentist will give you at-home whitening supplies and care instructions. The price of Zoom WhiteSpeed treatments includes these items.
Zoom QuickPro
A Zoom QuickPro treatment lasts about 30 minutes, with the application only taking 10 minutes. While it does not whiten as much as a Zoom WhiteSpeed, it requires little time in the office and is more affordable.
For Zoom QuickPro treatments, a dentist can:
- Apply a whitening solution to the affected teeth after a regular dental cleaning
- Add a protective sealant over the whitening solution
- Give you aftercare instructions
You can leave the office right after the procedure and must clean off the whitening solution after 30 minutes.
At-Home Zoom Whitening Options
There are two kinds of at-home Zoom whitening treatments. A dentist can suggest the ideal choice for you and give you the necessary supplies for the treatment. After a Zoom WhiteSpeed session, your dentist might also suggest one of these teeth-whitening methods to enhance your smile further.
Zoom NiteWhite and Zoom DayWhite
The at-home teeth-whitening options include custom dental trays that fit your teeth. With Zoom DayWhite, you can wear the oral trays for 30 minutes to 1.5 hours during the day, twice or once daily. A Zoom NiteWhite treatment is done at night, where you wear the oral trays while you sleep. Both treatments last for two weeks.
Your at-home process will include:
- Brush the teeth
- Add small amounts of whitening gels to the custom trays from your dentist
- Place the oral trays over the teeth
- Wear your trays for the recommended time
- Take out the custom dental trays and rinse them with water
- Brush the teeth again
A dental professional may also give you a gel to apply after whitening to help protect your enamel.
What You Should Expect After Your Zoom Whitening Procedure
The following 48 hours are crucial for improving and maintaining whitening outcomes for a healthy and bright smile.
Spotting
Spotting on teeth can happen after in-office Zoom whitening because of temporary dehydration. It usually fades within a few days. The whitening effect continues for forty-eight hours after the treatment.
Sensitivity
Some people may feel tooth sensitivity or pain in the first 24 hours after the whitening. Sensitivity is common and usually less severe but can be more intense for some. Typically, this sensitivity goes away within a day, but in rare cases, it may last longer. Consider taking over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers, like what you could use for headaches. Some individuals may feel temperature sensitivity or sharp pain within 24 hours after the treatment.
Apply a pain reliever gel from your take-home bag to the affected area to ease sensitivity. Once you have your custom take-home trays, put small amounts of whitening gel in each tray and wear them for 30 to 60 minutes. This can help soothe your teeth during sensitive times. Use sensitive toothpaste for several weeks after the dental procedure.
Home Zoom Whitening Tray for Touch-Up 3 Days After the Procedure
If your teeth feel fine, use the home whitening products a few more times in the first 3 to 5 days after your appointment to receive the best possible results and achieve the brightest shade. Keep any leftover whitening gels in cool, dry spots for future use. Make sure the dental trays are completely dry. Put small amounts of the gel on each tooth in the tray, being careful not to use too much.
Place the dental tray over your teeth and clean any extra gel. Avoid leaving the gel on your gums, as it can irritate them. Wear the trays with the whitening gel for two hours. Use all the gel you have. The duration can range from a few days to weeks. If you feel any sensitivity, reduce how long or often you use it. If it becomes too uncomfortable, quit using it completely.
The Advantages of Zoom Whitening Compared to Other Teeth Whitening Methods
There are many benefits to Zoom whitening, including its effectiveness and safety. Some of the main advantages include:
Quick Results
Zoom Teeth Whitening offers quick results in just one session, making it ideal for anyone seeking quick improvements. The procedure typically lasts 45-60 minutes and can significantly brighten your teeth.
Professional Supervision
Skilled dental experts carry out the Zoom whitening treatment, ensuring it is safe and effective. The supervision reduces risks and guarantees safe and accurate whitening.
Enhanced Whitening Agents
Using the strong whitening gel along with the Zoom light creates excellent results. This combination quickly breaks down stains and discoloration, resulting in noticeably brighter and fresher enamel.
Effective Removal of Stubborn Stains
Zoom’s special whitening technique penetrates the enamel to break down and remove tough stains that accumulate over time. This method eliminates chromophores, the substances that cause discoloration, and shows the teeth’ natural color.
Reliable and Consistent Results
Zoom whitening reliably provides effective and predictable results. The professional guides the careful application, customizing it to meet individual needs and ensuring steady, dependable improvements.
Zoom Whitening appeals to people who want fast, professional, and effective teeth whitening. Its powerful whitening ingredients and expert guidance provide a safe and efficient method to acquire a brighter, more confident smile.
Possible Side Effects of Zoom Whitening and How to Reduce Them
Tooth sensitivity is a frequent side effect of Zoom Whitening. Sensitivity occurs with most whitening treatments because the hydrogen peroxide in the gel goes through the enamel. Follow your dentist’s advice to reduce sensitivity and use fluoride toothpaste after treatment. Also, try not to consume dark foods and drinks, including coffee and red wine, for at least 48 hours after the procedure.
One way to lessen sensitivity is for your dentist to use a desensitizing gel before starting the whitening treatment. This gel helps shield the dentin layer of your teeth from hydrogen peroxide, which can cause sensitivity.
After undergoing the Zoom Whitening procedure, taking good care of your teeth is crucial to maintaining good results and minimizing sensitivity. If you feel significant pain or your teeth remain sensitive after the Zoom Whitening, contact your dentist promptly. They can advise on how to lessen sensitivity or recommend milder treatment options.
Zoom Teeth Whitening Costs
Zoom teeth whitening costs differ based on the clinic and location. The level of staining on the teeth also plays a role in determining the price.
The Zoom WhiteSpeed treatment usually costs between $600 and $1,200, the Zoom QuickPro treatment costs from $400 to $800, and the at-home treatment costs between $200 and $500. The at-home method requires professional guidance and a first consultation.
Is Zoom Whitening Worth the Cost?
Although Zoom Whitening usually costs more than other whitening methods, it can be a worthwhile investment for those seeking a significant improvement in their smile. When deciding if Zoom Whitening is worth the expense, you should consider both the immediate results of the procedure and its long-lasting effects.
Zoom Whitening brightens your smile quickly in just one appointment. It uses powerful light and hydrogen peroxide gel to remove stains, giving results that can last for up to four months. The process is non-invasive and has little recovery time, so you will not need to miss work or social events.
When considering the long-term advantages of the Zoom procedure, remember that this treatment can enhance oral health and boost self-esteem. By eliminating deep stains and restoring the brightness of your teeth, you will likely feel more confident in your appearance, which can improve your social interactions and overall mental well-being. Moreover, Zoom Whitening can help prevent cavities and other dental issues by removing plaque and bacteria.
Ultimately, choosing to have Zoom Whitening is a personal choice that should reflect your specific needs and goals. Zoom Whitening might be a good investment if you want quick and noticeable results with little discomfort.
Zoom Whitening Vs. Regular Teeth Whitening
You can choose between Zoom Whitening and regular methods for whitening your teeth. Both can make your teeth brighter, but they differ in price, ease of use, and effectiveness.
Teeth whitening procedures begin with a cleaning from your dentist. After that, you can use a home bleaching kit. This option is cheaper and easier since you can do it at your own pace. Depending on how stained your teeth are, it might take a few weeks or months to see clear results.
Zoom Whitening is an advanced whitening procedure performed by a dentist. It uses hydrogen peroxide gel and a special light for up to 45 minutes to brighten teeth. You can achieve noticeable results in just one appointment, but its intensity may cause some sensitivity afterward. This option is usually more costly than regular whitening treatments.
When deciding between Zoom Whitening and regular teeth whitening, consider your budget and what you want to achieve. Zoom Whitening offers fast results with less discomfort, so it tends to be more expensive. On the other hand, if you want to save money and do not mind waiting longer, regular whitening is a good option.
Aftercare and Keeping Your Smile Bright
With your teeth looking much whiter, your dentist can give tips to help you maintain that bright smile. Your teeth have a protective layer called the protein pellicle that traps surface stains. Zoom treatments remove this layer, which takes twelve to twenty-four hours to form again fully. To avoid ruining your results, here is what you should do:
Avoid Staining Foods and Drinks
For the next 48 hours after your treatment, you should avoid dark staining items like:
- Red wine, cola, coffee, and tea
- Berries such as cherries, blueberries, strawberries, and dark grapes
- Tobacco products
- Red sauces, ketchup, mustard, salsa, soy sauce, and other similar sauces
- Colored lipstick
- Colored mouthwash
Following a Zoom teeth whitening treatment, you should choose soft foods that are easy to chew because your teeth may feel sensitive. Here are some recommended foods to eat after the procedure:
- White rice
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- White cheese or yogurt
- Scrambled eggs
- Mashed potatoes
- Cooked vegetables
- Plain pasta
- Milk
- Baked potato
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Brushing and flossing regularly are critical to keeping teeth bright. Using a whitening toothpaste can also help prolong the results.
Schedule Regular Dental Visits
Seeing your dentist for cleanings and checkups is essential for your oral health and maintaining your whitening results.
Consider Touch-Up Treatments
Depending on your habits, you might need touch-up treatments to keep your teeth white. Your dentist can provide custom trays and whitening gel for use at home.
Eligibility for Zoom Teeth Whitening
Most people can undergo this treatment since there are few restrictions. It is one of the more affordable cosmetic dental options. Here are some essential factors that help determine if you are a good candidate for Zoom teeth whitening:
- Having healthy gums and teeth is essential, as it reduces the chance of irritation and discomfort. You are a suitable candidate if you do not have cavities, gum disease, sensitive teeth, or exposed nerves.
- You will likely see positive results if your teeth have mild to moderate stains from coffee, tea, red wine, or smoking. Additionally, you are a good candidate if you want quick results at a fair price and are willing to follow aftercare instructions.
However, it is not advisable for:
- Pregnant or nursing women.
- Those with severe tooth decay or gum issues.
- Individuals with very sensitive teeth.
- People who have unrealistic expectations about how white their teeth can be
Zoom Teeth Whitening Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some commonly asked questions on this procedure:
Do Teeth Remain White After Zoom Whitening?
Results can differ for each person using Zoom technology, so the level of whitening will vary. Some individuals notice a significant change after 1-2 sessions, with their teeth becoming 5-7 shades lighter, while others may not see the same results.
After completing the Zoom whitening, you might see a slight increase in the whiteness of your tooth enamel during the first two weeks. You should adhere to the aftercare guidelines, as this helps stabilize the final color of the enamel. A home whitening kit and proper aftercare can enhance results, allowing the enamel to lighten further.
To keep your teeth bright after Zoom whitening, you must also avoid foods and drinks that can stain your enamel. If you do not, the whitening effect might fade because tooth enamel can soak up stains.
Is Zoom Teeth Whitening Permanent?
No, it is not permanent. Even after the treatment, foods, beverages, and tobacco can still stain teeth. Avoiding these items can help keep teeth looking white.
Proper brushing and regular professional cleanings can also help maintain your teeth’s whiteness. Since you have worked to whiten your teeth, you should be mindful of how your eating and drinking habits affect your appearance.
Can Zoom Teeth Whitening Damage Teeth?
If a qualified professional does the Zoom whitening, the risk of damage is low. If you are considering using an at-home teeth-whitening kit, research first. Trying too many home methods can harm your enamel. You should stick to a healthy diet during whitening, which many people forget when using over-the-counter products.
Is a Zoom Whitening Procedure Painful?
The level of discomfort varies for each person. Most people feel only a slight sensation, but those with sensitive teeth may experience some pain. To help reduce sensitivity after the treatment, consider using tooth sensitivity toothpaste for a week before your dental procedure, and taking Advil can help with any discomfort.
Can I Use Tobacco Products or Smoke After a Zoom Whitening Procedure?
Yes, you can smoke for forty-eight hours after the whitening. However, smoking may cause your teeth to stain. The whitening process does not stop tooth discoloration; it only makes them whiter.
Can I Have Zoom Whitening on Dental Crowns or Cavities?
No, Zoom whitening does not work on foreign dental materials. It only whitens natural tooth enamel. You should whiten the teeth before filling a dental cavity so that the filling matches your new tooth color. The same applies to crowns. You should obtain a dental crown that matches your whitened teeth. Discuss your interest in Zoom whitening with your dentist if you have dental work planned.
How Soon After the Zoom Tooth Whitening Procedure Can I Drink Coffee?
People often want to know how soon they can drink coffee after Zoom whitening. You should wait at least two days before having coffee or tea. To help keep your teeth white, try to drink less coffee. The Zoom aftercare guide warns that coffee can stain enamel. If you must have coffee, consider using a straw and brushing your teeth afterward to lessen the staining effect.
Find a Zoom Whitening Dental Clinic Near Me
Zoom teeth whitening is a fast and effective way to remove stubborn stains and achieve a brighter smile. You should talk to your dentist about the treatment, its benefits, and any potential downsides to see if it is right for you. If you have any concerns or if other whitening treatments are more appropriate, your dentist will inform you. With good aftercare, you can achieve impressive and long-lasting results. We at The Hawthorne Dentist can help you if you need a Zoom whitening procedure. Call us today at 310-775-2557 to book an appointment.
