Whether due to natural aging or the types of food and drinks you consume, it’s common for your teeth to lose their brightness over the years. The good news is that this discoloration doesn’t have to be permanent. With the help of the Zoom!® Teeth Whitening system, dental patients can instantly enhance their smiles to produce a radiant shine. If you’re curious about this innovative treatment, here are a few common questions people ask their dentists about Zoom! Whitening.

5 FAQ About Zoom! Whitening

How Is Treatment Performed?

After the gums and lips are covered, a peroxide-based solution is applied to the teeth to open up microscopic pores in the enamel and lift away surface stains. This process is accelerated by placing a specialized Zoom! light over the teeth while the solution is applied.

How Long Does Treatment Take?

Zoom! Whitening procedures can usually be completed in an hour or less. During the appointment, the dentist will apply the peroxide solution and expose it to the light for 15 to 20 minutes. The process is repeated a few times, depending on the amount of discoloration that needs to be removed.

Why is Zoom! Whitening Better Than Other Methods?

Over-the-counter solutions — such as strips — may only improve whiteness by a single shade and require several applications to produce results. With Zoom! Whitening, you can brighten your smile by three to eight shades in a single appointment.

The Zoom! method is also designed to provide optimal comfort. During treatment, devices are used to hold the mouth open without putting stress on the lips or gums — a benefit that may not always be available through other professional whitening solutions.

Will Treatment Cause Sensitivity?

By carefully covering the gums and lips, as well as applying a desensitizing gel to the teeth, Zoom! Whitening is a fairly pain-free experience. However, if you already have sensitive teeth, let your dentist know before beginning the treatment. Whether by shortening the time of bleaching or using additional desensitizing solutions, your dentist can help minimize the level of sensitivity you experience during the procedure.

How Can I Maintain Results?

With proper care, Zoom! Whitening results can last anywhere from six months to a year. To keep your smile bright for the longest period, it’s best to avoid staining foods and drinks — such as berries, red wine, and coffee. Your dentist will also provide you with an at-home touch-up kit that can be used to maintain the results of your treatment.

If you want to discover how Zoom! Whitening can transform your smile, turn to John D. Mainwaring, DDS. Providing comprehensive dental services in the Orange, CT, area, this clinic is equipped to guide you through the whitening process with confidence. In addition to teeth whitening, this dentist offers many other cosmetic services to boost your smile’s appearance — including composite fillings, Invisalign®, and dental crowns. Visit this practice online to learn more about these treatment options or call (203) 799-6625 to schedule a convenient appointment.