Cosmetic Dentistry Services

Zoom! Tooth Whitening
Did you know there are two ways to bleach your teeth? One way is for you to use trays, which are fabricated in our office. The bleach is loaded in the trays nightly and worn for up to eight hours at a time. Gradually, the teeth will lighten.

The more exciting way is with Zoom!

Zoom! is an in-office bleaching technique, which takes a little over an hour and can lighten your teeth up to eleven shades. WOW! Instant gratification!

Please ask a staff member about our seasonal and bridal Zoom! specials!

Zoom! Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Zoom! tooth whitening?
A: Zoom! is a bleaching process that lightens discoloration of enamel and dentin.

Q: What causes tooth discoloration?
A: 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 may also cause tooth discoloration.

Q: Who may benefit from tooth whitening?
A: Almost anyone. However treatment may not be as effective for some as it is for others. Your dental professional can determine if you are viable candidate for this procedure through a thorough oral exam, including a shade assessment.

Q: Is whitening safe?
A: Yes. 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 woman.

Q: How long do the results last?
A: 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 Note White gel. These are professional formula products designed specifically to keep your teeth their brightest. They are available only through your dental professional.

Q: How does the Zoom! in-office system work?
A: 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 eight shades.

Q: What does a patient experience during the Zoom! in–office procedure?
A: During the procedure, patients may comfortably watch television or listen to music. Individuals with a strong gag reflex or anxiety may have difficulty undergoing the entire procedure.

Q: How is exposure to the Zoom! light controlled?
A: The Zoom! procedure requires that all soft tissue in and around the mouth be protected. The clinician is required to 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 therapy (Psoralen + UV Radiation) or other photochemotheraphy, or patients with melanoma, should not undergo the Zoom in–office procedure. Anyone who is not eligible for Zoom! Chairside Whitening for these reasons may be an excellent candidate for Zoom! Take-Home.

Q: How long does Zoom! Chairside Whitening take?
A:  The complete procedure begins with a preparation period followed as little as by 45 minutes of bleaching. (A Cleaning is recommended prior to the actual Zoom! Whitening session.)

Q: Are there any side effects?
A: 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.

Please contact our office with any inquiries and a member of our staff will be happy to answer your questions regarding our Zoom! Tooth Whitening services.

A Note of Assurance
Tooth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure well established for it's safety.

The whitening process is effective on most discolored teeth. Darker stains, such as those caused by antibiotics, are more difficult to whiten. The degree of whiteness will vary from patient to patient, depending on the structure of the teeth.