As time passes, teeth may undergo discoloration or staining due to the consumption of particular foods and beverages, tobacco usage, or natural aging. To enhance the appearance of your smile and increase your self-assurance, lightening the shade of your teeth can be a speedy and efficient option. Our office provides Zoom!® teeth whitening in Louisville, which can brighten your teeth up to eight shades in a single in-office session. Zoom! teeth whitening delivers professional-grade bleaching that produces noticeable results instantly.
ADVANTAGES OF ZOOM!® TEETH WHITENING
While numerous over-the-counter teeth whitening products claim to brighten teeth, Zoom! teeth whitening provides unique benefits, including:
- Use of professional-grade bleaching agents to effectively remove even stubborn stains
- Visible results achievable in just one hour-long treatment session
- Resistance to future discoloration and stains
- Durable and long-lasting outcomes
In addition, teeth whitening can complement other cosmetic or restorative dental procedures, such as full mouth restorations or smile makeovers.
Zoom!® Teeth Whitening Procedure
Prior to the actual Zoom teeth whitening session, it is recommended to undergo a regular teeth cleaning. The complete procedure takes less than an hour and begins with a brief preparation to cover the lips and gums, leaving the teeth exposed. The Zoom hydrogen peroxide whitening gel is then applied, which works together with the Zoom light to penetrate the teeth and break up stains and discoloration. While the gel remains in place for 15 minutes, the light is activated and you can relax during the process.
This process is repeated for three 15-minute sessions of light activation, totaling a 45-minute treatment time. However, individuals with a strong gag reflex or anxiety may find it challenging to undergo the entire procedure. Afterward, a sensitivity-reducing fluoride paste-gel is applied to the teeth.
To maintain the whitening effects of the treatment, a Zoom home-use touch-up kit with custom-fitted whitening trays will be provided. We will provide instructions on when and how to use the kit. It is also advised to avoid or consume in moderation certain foods and beverages, such as tea, coffee, red wine, cola, etc., to prevent staining. Tobacco products should also be avoided. Maintaining an appropriate oral hygiene regimen and seeing your dentist and hygienist regularly for scheduled teeth cleanings is crucial in preventing stains from reforming. Your dentist may also suggest using toothpaste containing whitening agents to maintain the results of the procedure.
Over-the-Counter vs. Professional Teeth Whitening
Over-The-Counter
Drugstore kits promise fast, easy, and extra strength whitening, but often underdeliver. At-home kits use a low concentration of bleaching agents over an extended period, making results slow and short-lived. Irritated gums and lack of professional supervision are also potential drawbacks. While cheaper, failed attempts may end up costing more than professional whitening.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Convenient
Cons:
- No guarantee of effectiveness
- Slow results
- Short-lived results
- Possible gum irritation
- No professional cleaning
- No dental supervision
Professional Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening provides immediate and long-lasting results that at-home kits can’t replicate. Over-the-counter kits use a weaker bleaching agent, resulting in weaker and short-lived results. Professional treatments use a stronger hydrogen peroxide solution, customized trays, and special light to guarantee safe, effective, and long-lasting results.
Our customized treatments provide fast, safe, and effective results. We offer in-office and take-home options with custom trays in a variety of strengths to tackle any type of stain. Professional teeth whitening provides dental professional supervision and proven results.
Pros:
- Fast, safe, and effective results
- Long-lasting whitening
- Customized treatment for individual needs
- Dental professional supervision
- Proven results
Cons:
- Higher cost than drugstore products
- Dental consultation and appointment required
Managing Tooth Sensitivity During Whitening
To minimize discomfort during Zoom! teeth whitening, it’s recommended to use toothpaste specifically designed for sensitive teeth prior to treatment. These toothpastes contain active ingredients that fill microscopic holes on the tooth’s surface which can cause sensitivity. Although a protective barrier is applied to the gums at the start of treatment to prevent irritation of the soft tissue, it may not prevent tooth sensitivity. If you experience difficulty tolerating the treatment, our dentist can adjust the intensity of the gel or shorten the duration of the activating light exposure. Another option to minimize sensitivity is to split the full treatment into two sessions conducted on separate days.
ADDITIONAL FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT Zoom!® TEETH WHITENING
How long does a Zoom!® dental whitening treatment take?
A typical Zoom!® dental whitening treatment takes about an hour to complete.
Is Zoom!® dental whitening safe?
Yes, Zoom!® dental whitening is safe when performed by a trained dental professional.
Does Zoom!® dental whitening work on all teeth?
Zoom!® dental whitening can effectively lighten most types of teeth, but it may not work as well on teeth that have severe discoloration or staining.
Can Zoom!® dental whitening be done at home?
No, Zoom!® dental whitening is a professional treatment that must be done in a dental office.
Is there a dentist near me in Louisville that offers Zoom!®?
Yes. At our Louisville dental office we offer Zoom!® to patients in Louisville and the surrounding area. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.