Zoom Teeth Whitening
Overview of Tooth Whitening
Tooth whitening is used to correct discoloration
of a tooth by removing the brown and yellow staining. The
term "tooth whitening" or "tooth bleaching"
can refer to a number of techniques to improve the brightness
of the patient's tooth. Among them are chemical whitening,
mild acid whitening, abrasive tooth brightening and the newest
technique, laser tooth whitening.
 What
causes discoloration of a tooth?
Tooth enamel discoloration can be caused by staining, aging,
or chemical damage to teeth. Some of the more common causes
of tooth discoloration are medications, coffee, tea or cigarettes.
People who drink significant amounts of cola soft drinks can
experience similar staining. Damage to the root may also contribute
to discoloration.
Aside from staining, there are other factors that can affect
the color of a tooth. Genetics can play a role. Some people
have naturally brighter enamel than others. Disease can also
be a factor and certain medications can cause a discoloration
of a tooth. If you suspect that there is an underlying medical
cause for your tooth discoloration, be sure to inform your
cosmetic dentist.
Tooth Bleaching
Tooth bleaching is chemical process used to lighten the color
of a patient's tooth. The procedure can be performed entirely
in the cosmetic dentist's practice in only one or two visits.Your
cosmetic dentist may first try a regular abrasive cleaning
of the tooth. This may be followed by a bleaching process
on the stained tooth or teeth. Severely stained teeth may
require the use of a special whitening gel activated by a
UV light. Your cosmetic dentist will carefully lighten the
tooth until an acceptable color match with your other teeth
is achieved.
How long does tooth whitening last?
Tooth whitening is not a permanent procedure. Results can
last for one to or more years, depending upon your personal
habits. In most cases, the tooth whitening procedure is very
effective and the patient is pleased with the results.
Zoom whitening
One of the safest whitening systems is Zoom whitening which includes
a chair technique using UV light .
The complete procedure takes less than two hours. The
procedure begins with a preparation period followed by
45 minutes of bleaching. (A cleaning is recommended prior
to the actual Zoom whitening session.)
The Zoom! light activated whitening gel's active ingredient
is Hydrogen Peroxide. As the Hydrogen Peroxide is broken down,
oxygen enters the enamel and dentin, bleaching colored substances
while the structure of the tooth is unchanged. The Zoom! light
aids in activating the hydrogen peroxide and helps it penetrate
the surface of the tooth. A study has shown that use of the
Zoom! lamp increases the effectiveness of the Zoom! gel by
26% or more, giving an average improvement of up to eight
shades.
By following some simple post whitening care instructions,
your teeth will always be lighter than they were before. To
keep your teeth looking their best, we recommend flossing,
brushing twice daily, and occasional touch-ups with Zoom!
Weekender or Nite White gel. These are professional formula
products designed specifically to keep your teeth their brightest.
They are available only through your dental professional.
Sensitivity during the treatment may occur with some
patients. The Zoom! light generates minimal heat which is the
usual source of discomfort. On rare occasions, minor tingling
sensations are experienced immediately after the procedure,
but always dissipate. You can also ask your dentist to supply
you with anti-sensitivity toothpaste for use after the treatment.
Extensive research and clinical studies indicate that whitening
teeth under the supervision of a dentist is safe. In fact,
many dentists consider whitening the safest cosmetic dental
procedure available. As with any tooth whitening product,
Zoom! is not recommended for children under 13 years of age
and pregnant or lactating women.
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