Zoom Whitening – All you wanted to know

Zoom whitening is a type of bleaching procedure that is used all across the globe for lightening discoloration of teeth dentin and enamel. Discoloration of teeth can occur due to intake of cola, tea, coffee, and/or wine as well as due to smoking. The teeth can also darken and stain due to the normal process of aging.

An in-clinic Zoom whitening process makes use of the Zoom Advanced Power Chairside Lamp to trigger whitening of the 25% hydrogen peroxide applied on the teeth. The lamp is known to facilitate and quicken the process of bleaching. When hydrogen peroxide begins to break down, oxygen moves into dentin and enamel and bleaches the darkened materials, thereby ensuring that the tooth structure is retained.

Zoom Whitening: Before the procedure

• The dentist will carry out a complete investigation of the gums and teeth and ensure that they are in good health before suggesting the use of Zoom whitening to bleach the teeth. The doctor may also verify the lifestyle, habits, and oral hygiene practices before determining if Zoom whitening will be advantageous for the patient.
• The dentist may check for dental work, like crowns, etc., that may already been done by the patient. Traditional whitening agents do not work on veneers, etc. and hence the doctor may suggest different options of teeth whitening.
• The dentist may recommend Zoom whitening to a patient if the patient also wishes to undergo other cosmetic dental enhancements like composite bonding or veneers. This is often suggested as it will provide a better match between the different procedures and whitening. For example, Zoom whitening may be beneficial for eliminating stains of braces after they have been removed.

Zoom Whitening: The procedure

An in-clinic Zoom whitening procedure takes less than 1 hour to complete. Normal cleaning of teeth is advisable before patients undergo the Zoom whitening process. Teeth cleaning may require additional time.

The dentist or his/her assistant makes a preparation and covers the gums and lips but ensures that the teeth remain exposed. The Zoom whitening hydrogen peroxide gel is then applied on the teeth and it works in conjunction with the Zoom laser light to get inside the teeth and break down discoloration and stains. Initially, the gel is placed on the teeth for a period of 15 minutes while the Zoom light is getting activated.

There are 3 sessions of gel application and light activation in a Zoom whitening procedure. Each of these 3 sessions last for 15 minutes. Thus, the total time taken for whitening is about 45 minutes. Just after the last session is over, a fluoride sensitivity-decreasing gel-paste is applied on the whitened teeth.

People with anxiety or a powerful gag reflex may face problems in undergoing the full Zoom whitening procedure.

Zoom whitening: Aftercare

• The dentist will provide a home-use Zoom touch-up kit along with instructions on how and when to use it. This kit also contains custom-fitted and made whitening trays.
• The dentist may suggest the use of toothpastes with whitening agents so as to ensure that the results of Zoom whitening are retained.
• After the treatment is over, the dentist may suggest minimizing or avoiding the intake of certain beverages and foods to prevent new stains on teeth. Such foods include red wine, tea, cola, and coffee, etc.
• A good oral hygiene schedule that includes flossing and daily brushing is essential to prevent discoloration from occurring again. It is also advisable to regularly visit the dentist for teeth cleanings.
• Smoking and use of tobacco or tobacco products will cause teeth discoloration even after undergoing Zoom whitening. It is best to quit the habit.

Zoom Whitening: Side effects, pain, and other considerations

• Some patients may experience sensitivity when undergoing Zoom whitening treatment. People with sensitivity of the teeth may ask for an anti-sensitivity toothpaste before the procedure. This will help reduce the sensitivity.
• Low heat is produced by the Zoom light beam. This can result in minor discomfort.
• In rare cases, patients may experience minimal tingling sensations just after the procedure. It however disappears in some time.
• Zoom whitening is not advisable for breast-feeding or pregnant women as well as for children younger than 13 years old.

Any kind of teeth whitening procedure comes with the following risks and side effects:

• The whitening may turn uneven and cause a patchy look on the teeth.
• There may be irritation and soreness of the gums just after the procedure is complete.
• Frequent usage of chemicals like bleach, etc. can cause enamel erosion thereby increasing the risk to tooth decay.
• Increased sensitivity when drinking cold or hot drinks

Zoom whitening: Cost

• Zoom whitening is a cosmetic procedure and may not necessarily be covered under dental insurance.
• Zoom whitening treatment usually costs about $500. This price covers the cost of the home kit as well.