subject: When You Want To Brighten Your Smile, Your Dentist Knows Best [print this page] Technically, you're not supposed to wear white after Labor Day, but technicalities aside, everyone knows that white teeth are always in style. With so many whitening procedures available today, how do you know which is the best solution for whitening your teeth? Brighten up your smile for the season with help from your dentist in Newark and new Zoom! Whitening that is available as an in-office whitening procedure or a take-home kit. By visiting your dentist you will be able to find the best solution for creating a smile that sparkles.
Step 1: Consultation and Treatment Planning
Before you decide what whitening treatment is best for you, your dentist will conduct a comprehensive examination of your teeth and gums to ensure they are in proper health. Your dentist will also talk to you about your oral hygiene and lifestyle habits to determine if you will benefit from whitening. With this consultation, you and your dentist will agree on the whitening product or technique that is best for you. The need for whitening may also be required if you are planning other cosmetic procedures, such as veneers or composite bonding, in order to offer the best match between the restoration and your natural dentition. Teeth whitening may also be used after the removal of braces. Depending on the condition of your teeth and your goals for treatment, teeth whitening may not be your best option, but this will be discussed with your dentist at your consultation.
Step 2: The Zoom Whitening Procedure
The complete Zoom in-office whitening procedure typically takes about 90 minutes. However, it is recommended that you undergo a regular teeth cleaning prior to your actual whitening session to ensure the best whitening results. Your procedure will begin with a short preparation to cover your lips and gums, leaving only your teeth exposed. Your dentist will then apply the Zoom hydrogen peroxide whitening gel, which works together with the Zoom light to penetrate the teeth and break up the stains and discoloration-making way for a brighter smile.
While the light is activated, the gel will remain in place for approximately 15 minutes. During this time, you can sit back and relax while the whitening takes place. The gel will be applied for three 15-minute sessions of light activation, for a total treatment time of 45 minutes. If you have a strong gag reflex, or anxiety, the Zoom procedure may not be appropriate. Immediately after the procedure is complete, your dentist will place a sensitivity-reducing fluoride paste-gel to your teeth.
Step 3: Maintaining Whitening Effects with Proper Aftercare
After your procedure is complete, you will be given a Zoom home-use touch-up kit that includes custom-fitted whitening trays. Remember to follow your dentist's instructions for when and how to use this touch-up kit. To help maintain the whitening effects of Zoom, your dentist may advise you to avoid certain foods and drinks, or consume them in moderation to avoid re-staining your teeth. Tobacco products will stain teeth, even after you have undergone whitening treatments. With that, your dentist will suggest that you quit smoking or using other tobacco products. Be sure to maintain an appropriate oral hygiene regimen to prevent stains from reforming, and visit your dentist regularly for scheduled teeth cleaning sessions.
Contact your Newark, OH dentist for more information on Zoom whitening, and to find out if you are a candidate for this fast-acting whitening procedure.
