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 a viable
candidate for this procedure through a thorough
oral exam, including a shade assessment .
Q: Do many people whiten their teeth?
A: More people than you might imagine. A bright
sparkling smile can make a big difference for
everyone. The Zoom! Chairside Whitening System
makes it easier and faster than ever before.
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 women.
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 Nite 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.
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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.
A Note of Assurance
Tooth whitening is a well established procedure in
cosmetic dentistry. Hydrogen Peroxide, the active
agent in Zoom!, has been safely used for many years
in the treatment of gums and other oral soft tissue.
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.
If you have any questions, please ask your dental
professional. Maximize your smile using the
Zoom! Whitening System.
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 photo chemotherapy, or patients
with
melanoma, should not undergo the Zoom!
in-office procedure. Also, patients taking any
light sensitive drugs or substances, whether over
the counter, prescription or homeopathic, should
consult their primary care physician
prior to the
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 takes less than an
hour. The 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.
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