Ask the Dentist

Questions on Teeth Whitening

 

What is ZOOM! ® tooth whitening?
ZOOM! ® is a whitening process that lightens discoloration of enamel and dentin. If you prefer teeth that are immediately whiter right now or you would rather whiten your teeth over a few nights while you sleep, Dr. Kelliher has your answer with ZOOM! ®

The ZOOM! ® In-Office Whitening System uses proprietary technology to whiten your teeth as much as eight shades in a little over an hour while you relax at your dentist's office. It's ideal for anyone who wants immediate results. The ZOOM! ® Take-Home Whitening System uses a revolutionary patent-pending gel to whiten your teeth up to six shades over the course of treatment.

Get your teeth whiter with ZOOM! ®


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 for some as it is for others. Upon an oral exam, Dr. Kelliher 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 13 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, and touch-ups with ZOOM! ® 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. Kelliher 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 up to eight shades.


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, whitening 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?
No. 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 completion of the 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 whitening. A five-minute fluoride treatment completes the procedure (we recommend a cleaning prior to the actual ZOOM! ® Whitening session).


How long does ZOOM! ® Take-Home Whitening take?
The ZOOM! ® take-home gel is designed to be worn between two and three hours per application. Dr. Kelliher will advise you on how long you should wear each application.


How is the ZOOM! ® Take-Home System different from the ZOOM! ® In-Office System?
The main difference between the two systems is that you use the ZOOM! ® Take-Home System in the convenience of your own home over several nights. The ZOOM! ® In-Office System is performed entirely in the office.

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For any dental teeth whitening related questions or to schedule an appointment, please call us at 703.503.5031 or email us, and our staff will happy to assist you.

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Dr. Kelliher is a leading Fairfax Virginia cosmetic, restorative and implant dentist, serving residents throughout Northern Virginia, including Fairfax County, Fairfax Station, Washington DC, Annandale, Vienna and Maryland. Our top Fairfax VA cosmetic dental office can enhance your white smile through cosmetic, laser and implant dentistry. Our Fairfax dental office can enhance your existing smile with cosmetic dentistry treatments, which include professional ZOOM teeth whitening, dental porcelain veneers and smile makeovers. As a top cosmetic dentist, our Northern Virginia dental practice treats patients as family with warm caring dental treatments.

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