Zoom! In-Office Teeth Whitening

What is Zoom™ tooth whitening?
What causes tooth discoloration?
Who may benefit from tooth whitening?
Do many people whiten their teeth?
Is whitening safe?
How does Zoom work?
What does a person experience during the Zoom procedure?
How is exposure to the Zoom light controlled?
How long does Zoom whitening take?
Are there any side effects?
How long do the results last?

What is Zoom tooth whitening? 
Zoom is a power-assisted bleaching process that lightens enamel and dentin.  The Zoom in-office whitening system is a revolutionary tooth whitening procedure utilizing a light-activated 25% hydrogen peroxide gel with a full-arch (upper and lower) bleaching lamp (it's the bleaching lamp that provides the power assistance).  It's safe, effective and fast - very fast.  In just about 90 minutes, your teeth will be dramatically whiter.  Zoom whitening is ideal for anyone looking for immediate results (6-10 shades* with up to three 20-minute exposures).  The convenience, speed and effectiveness of Zoom makes it the perfect choice for the busy individual.

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, consumption of tetracycline, certain antibiotics or excessive fluoride (>10 ppm) may also cause tooth discoloration.  Stains that can be removed with professional cleaning are extrinsic (external) stains.  Stains that are not removed with professional cleaning are intrinsic (internal) stains.  Most staining substances such as coffee, tea, colas, tobacco, red wine, etc. cause extrinsic stains; however, over many years these substances can penetrate the enamel crystals, and these are then intrinsic stains.  It is intrinsic stains that are addressed by professional tooth whitening.

Who may benefit from tooth whitening? 
Almost anyone.  However, treatment may not be as effective or some as it is for others (for example, dark tetracycline staining). We can help determine if you are a viable candidate for this procedure through a thorough oral exam, including a shade assessment.

Do many people whiten their teeth? 
More people than you might imagine.  A bright, sparkling smile can make a big difference for everyone.  The Zoom whitening system makes it easier and faster than ever before.

Is whitening safe? 
Yes, extensive research and clinical studies indicate that whitening teeth under the supervision of a dentist is safe.  Zoom is not recommended for children under 18 years of age, and pregnant or lactating women.

How does Zoom work? 
The Zoom light-activated whitening gel is a scientifically formulated, pH balanced hydrogen peroxide (virtually zero sensitivity formula) that, when activated by the Zoom light, gently penetrates the teeth to remove deep stains and discoloration.  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.

What does a person experience during the Zoom procedure? 
During the procedure, you may comfortably watch television or listen to music.  Individuals with a strong gag reflex or anxiety may have difficulty undergoing the entire procedure.

Enjoy a DVD movie during the procedure with Olympus Eye-Trek virtual reality glasses that simulate a 62 inch wide screen.

It begins with a preparation to isolate the lips and gums to protect them.  The whitening gel is then applied, which is activated by the specially designed light for 20-minute sessions (up to three, depending on comfort and results).  After each 20-minute session the whitening gel is rinsed off, and new gel is applied.  A five-minute fluoride treatment completes the procedure.  You'll be amazed with the results.  Most people will see that their teeth will get even whiter the first few days after the procedure (this occurs because of the gel present within the enamel).

How is exposure to the Zoom light controlled? 
The Zoom procedure requires that all soft tissue in and around the mouth be protected.  We 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 individuals with melanoma, should not undergo the Zoom in-office procedure.  Also people taking any light sensitive drugs or substances, whether over-the-counter, prescription or homeopathic, should consult their primary physician prior to the procedure.  For the most recent list (1990) of medications that can cause light sensitivity you can download the FDA publication (PDF file, 583k):
  http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/radhlth/pdf/uvminfpx.pdf.

How long does Zoom whitening take? 
The complete procedure takes about 90 minutes. The procedure begins with a preparation period followed by 20-minute bleaching sessions (up to three 20-minute exposures, depending on comfort and results).  A five minute fluoride treatment completes the procedure.  A professional cleaning is recommended prior to the actual Zoom whitening session.

Are there any side effects? 
Sensitivity during the treatment may occur for some people.  On some occasions tingling sensations in the teeth are experienced during and after the procedure, but always dissipate (usually within 48 hours).  Occasionally there may be some slight irritation where gel has gotten on tissues (lips, cheek, gums), which is why these areas are covered and protected.  The Zoom light generates minimal heat and there is no effect from that. 

How long do the results last? 
By following the Zoom post-whitening care instructions, your teeth will always be lighter than they were prior to the procedure.  To maintain the results, our office recommends and includes home bleaching trays and gel as a part of every Zoom procedure.