Whitening Teeth      

    Zoom - Q&A | University Study | Tray Whitening

    The History of Tooth Whitening

    Facts Concerning Whitening

Unfortunately, nature plays her tricks over the years as she slowly darkens our enamel. Wouldn't it be better if our hair got darker, and our teeth got whiter?

ZOOM !!!

University of Texas, Dental Branch at Houston 2008

“Clinical Evaluation of a Chairside Whitening Lamp and Bleaching Efficacy”
Clinical study presented at the AADR by Dr Joe Ontiveros concluded that treatment with the Zoom! lamp showed significantly higher whitening color changes 7 days after the procedure when compared to treatment without the light using both a spectrophotometer (Vita® Easyshade) and visual findings (Vita Bleached Guide 3D-Master®).
• 35% whiter after 1 week, than with gel alone

 QUESTIONS & ANSWERS ABOUT ZOOM

What is Zoom! tooth whitening?

Zoom! is a whitening  process that lightens discoloration of enamel and dentin.

What can cause tooth discoloration?

There are many causes. The most common include aging and consumption of staining substances such as coffee, tea or tobacco. During tooth formation, consumption of tetracycline, certain antibiotics or excessive fluoride may also cause tooth discoloration.

Who may benefit from tooth whitening?

Just about anyone can benefit from tooth whitening. However, treatment may not be as effective or some as it is for others. Upon an oral exam, Dr. Hafernik can determine if you are a candidate for this procedure, including a shade assessment.

Is tooth whitening becoming more popular?

Absolutely! A bright, beautiful smile can make a big difference. The Zoom! Whitening System makes it easier and faster than ever before.

Is tooth whitening safe?

Yes, 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 17 years of age and pregnant or lactating women.

Do the results last a long time?

By following some simple post whitening care instructions, your teeth will always be lighter than they were before. We recommend flossing, brushing twice daily with whitening Toothpaste, and touch-ups with  take-home gel. These are professional formula products designed specifically to keep your teeth their brightest. They are available through our office.

Is there any difference between over-the-counter tooth whiteners and Zoom!

Yes! Consulting Dr. Hafernik is always the first step to whitening your teeth safely. Over-the-counter tooth whitening strips, brush-on gels and toothpastes take weeks or months to whiten your teeth just a few shades. Zoom! is clinically proven to whiten your teeth eight shades in one hour.

How does the Zoom! In-Office System work?

The Zoom! light-activated whitening gel's active ingredient is Hydrogen Peroxide. As Hydrogen Peroxide is broken down, oxygen enters the enamel and dentin, bleaching any colored substance while keeping the structure of the tooth unchanged. The Zoom! light aids in activating the Hydrogen Peroxide and helps it penetrate the surface of the tooth.

Is the Zoom! In-office procedure painful?

Depending on how sensitive your teeth are before whitening you may experience some sensitivity during and the first 24-48 hours after Zoom treatment. To eliminate this sensitivity we usually recommend an over the counter pain medication like ibuprofen or Tylenol prior to starting the procedure. Many patients do not experience any sensitivity at all.During the procedure, patients can actually watch television or listen to music. Many fall asleep. 

Are there any side effects?

Some people experience temporary increased tooth sensitivity to cold during treatment. These symptoms disappear within 1-3 days after  treatment.

How long is the procedure?

The Entire procedure takes just over one hour. The procedure begins with a preparation period followed by one hour of bleaching. A five-minute fluoride treatment completes the procedure (we recommend a cleaning prior to the actual Zoom! Whitening session).

Tray Whitening

One of the most exciting procedures provided today! It is possible to whiten and brighten up your smile 1 to 2 hours during the day. Impressions are taken of your teeth, custom trays are fabricated and the whitening gel is placed into the trays. The usual length of time required is 10 to 15 days.

The History of Tooth Whitening-

Esthetic dentistry was popular as far back as the late 1800's in this country. It was very popular to alter the shape of the front teeth as well as attempting to lighten them.

Carbamide peroxides were first used in the 1960's as an anti-inflammatory medicament - especially for periodontal and orthodontic therapy patients. During this period, some patients were found to have whitened areas appearing on their teeth. The research by one dentist was generally overlooked for almost 2 decades. Finally, the original study of carbamide peroxide was "rediscovered" and we now have the whitening systems of today.

FAQs

Q - How does whitening occur?
A - It is hypothesized that the pigments in the tooth are oxidized.

Q- How long does it take to work?
A- Anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. When dealing with extreme stains, there are cases that have taken months to complete.

Q-What are the active ingredients?
A-Carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide.

Q-Can the trays be seen when I wear them?
A-No, they adapt to the teeth very closely and are completely clear.

Q- Are there any problems associated with whitening?
A- Some people get some sensitivity in their teeth. This can be handled with desensitizers or changing from the usual tray wearing regimen.

Q- How long does the whitening last?
A- Studies show a retention of approximately 84% at the end of 3 years.

Q- Can I continue to use the whitening gel in the future.
A- It is not usually required - BUT - it is possible to "touch-up" the color by occasionally using the tray and gel for one or two treatments.

Facts Concerning Tooth Whitening -

• Safety - There are 100's of published articles that attest to the safety and nontoxicity of whitening systems, when administered by qualified dentists.
• Predictability - More that 90% of patients will show significant discoloration.
• Over-the-counter (OTC) whitening systems - Simply put, these systems do not have the ingredients/chemistry to take the whitening to what can occur with in-the-office systems. Some types of OTC products have abrasives that will remove surface stains and make the teeth look whiter - the problem with these is that they also remove a small amount of enamel due to their abrasiveness.
• Active ingredients - We use a whitening solution of carbamide peroxide/hydrogen peroxide (between 15 and 25 percent strength).