The 101 on Zoom Teeth Whitening (2024)

Do you remember the last picture you saw of yourself? Did you find yourself cringing at how yellow your teeth looked?

It's natural for teeth to darken and yellow as we age. Drinking tea, coffee, wine, and soda can exacerbate the problem. Smoking can cause staining as well. But luckily, Zoom Teeth Whitening is an excellent solution to this pesky problem.

Zoom Teeth Whitening is a form of laser treatment. It lightens the staining or discoloration of tooth enamel. It is a simple, non-invasive procedure that usually takes between 45 minutes to an hour.

The process combines a special lamp, referred to as a Zoom light or Zoom laser, with a hydrogen peroxide-based whitening gel. Using both, the dentist will bleach each tooth and produce a brighter smile by the end of the treatment.

A high concentration of hydrogen peroxide is used in the gel that covers your teeth. When the peroxide comes into contact with the intense light emitted from the lamp, it breaks down. Then it dissolves a thin layer over top of the enamel and releases oxygen into the teeth. The oxygen then helps to flush out and get rid of tooth discoloration that has set in.

Think of it like you're giving your teeth a chemical bath. As an added bonus, Zoom whitening does not affect the physical structures of your teeth at all. This low-risk procedure is of the best teeth whitening options out there.

If you're on the fence or want to know more about Zoom, book a consultation with your dentist. At your consultation, your dentist will explain the ins and outs of the procedure. They will review your gums and teeth, and ask you about your goals. Finally, they'll speak to you about potential treatment options. You can also use this time to ask as many questions as you want.

There may be times when your dentist encourages Zoom whitening. For example, if you're undergoing another kind of procedure, like receiving veneers. Zoom whitening may help you end up with a more natural look.

Your consultation may also determine that you are not the right fit for Zoom teeth whitening. Perhaps the procedure would have adverse interactions with other work you've had done.

The first thing to do before your Zoom treatment is to book a regular cleaning appointment. Getting your teeth cleaned will help them respond best to the treatment. This is because the cleaning will remove any surface stains or plaque that have built up on your teeth.

On the day of your Zoom appointment, you will most likely need to fill out paperwork. If you haven't done so already, you will also go through a standard exam. During the exam, they will make note of any crowns or fillings. They'll also check to see if your teeth and gums are healthy enough for whitening.

You can ask your dentist to take note of these specific issues at your pre-appointment cleaning, too.

The full Zoom teeth-whitening treatment usually takes under an hour. It starts with preparing you for the procedure. A dentist or hygienist will place a covering over your gums and lips so that only the teeth are visible. Then they will give you protective eyewear. Then they will put a layer of the whitening gel on top of your teeth and put the Zoom lamp in place for 15 minutes.

This process is repeated three times. Between each session, the dentist checks for progress. If needed, they will adjust the light or add more gel to your teeth.

It may be hard to hold the right position for each session, but they will do their best to help you stay comfortable. Once you're finished with the third 15-minute sitting, the dentist will coat your teeth in a paste. This helps reduce sensitivity, which can occur in some patients.

After your treatment is complete, you will get all cleaned up and are free to go. Of course, it is important to know what you can and cannot consume immediately after your procedure (hint: none of those staining drinks mentioned earlier!). Resuming smoking post-procedure is discouraged. It can rapidly reverse the effects of the treatment and cause greater damage to your teeth.

You will receive a thorough list of what you should avoid eating on your way out. You may also get whitening toothpaste and a custom-fitted set of whitening trays. You can use the trays for touch-ups if you should need them. Your dentist will let you know how long you need to avoid certain foods or beverages. They'll make sure you have everything you need to care for and maintain your new smile.

One thing to consider when looking into Zoom whitening is sensitivity. Sensitivity can occur during and after treatment. The hydrogen peroxide whitening gel removes a thin layer that rests on top of the tooth enamel.

This is called the pellicle. The pellicle keeps your teeth from being sensitive to hot and cold foods. It is important to be aware that your teeth may feel more sensitive after treatment. You may also feel some discomfort during treatment, as a result. This layer will grow back within a couple of days after treatment.

Taking over-the-counter pain medication before your appointment can help lessen these side-effects.

Finally, note that if you are pregnant, nursing, or under 13 years of age, Zoom is not a recommended procedure for you.