Category Archives: Zoom Whitening

Zoom Whitening

why didn’t zoom whitening help?

My daughter had braces. When they were removed, there was an uneven color on her teeth. Some of the teeth had white spots. We talked to our dentist about it and he suggested we use Zoom Whitening. We did. Although her teeth are whiter they are still quite uneven. What went wrong?

Natasha

Dear Natasha,

Patient using Zoom Whitening light
Whitening your teeth in one appointment is easy with Zoom

The biggest thing which went wrong is your dentist doesn’t know anything about cosmetic dentistry. while Zoom Whitening is an extraordinarily effective treatment for whitening stained teeth, it is not the correct treatment for uneven teeth.

When it comes to white spots, any type of teeth whitening procedure will actually make the situation worse.

Dealing with White Spots After Braces

When a patient has white spots after braces, it is usually caused by decalcification. Cleaning your teeth with braces on is very challenging. It takes a lot of effort to get in all the nooks and crannies. That’s one reason many dentists are recommending Invisalign for orthodontics whenever possible. It makes it much easier to clean your teeth.

Tooth Mousse is a product designed for this type of situation. It helps to remineralize the decalcified spots.

Another option is to have dental bonding placed in order to cover the uneven spots on your teeth. Don’t go to your family dentist for this. It requires a great cosmetic dentist to do this well.

How to Find a Great Cosmetic Dentist

I’m going to suggest you go to the mynewsmile.com website. They pre-screen cosmetic dentists for both technical skill and artistry. Anyone listed on their site will give your daughter a beautiful smile.

This blog is brought to you by New Orleans Dentist Dr. Duane Delaune.

Zoom Whitening

Clorox for teeth whitening

I want to whiten my teeth fast. I know that traditional teeth whitening costs money and takes several weeks. I’d like it done faster. I was thinking if Clorox bleaches clothes, maybe it can bleach teeth too. If I put it on with a Q-tip, how fast will it work?

Margie

Deqr Margie,

Patient using Zoom Whitening light
Whitening your teeth in one appointment is easy with Zoom

While I appreciate your enthusiasm and creativity, this is a bad idea for two main reasons. First, Clorox bleach is a corrosive and will burn living tissue like your gums as well as eat away at the enamel on your teeth. Second, if it comes in contact with certain other chemicals, it will cause a toxic gas. That’s not something you want in your mouth.

If you’re after fast teeth whitening, there is a safe, healthy alternative. Find a dentist who offers Zoom whitening. This uses a special light, like the one pictured above. The purpose of the light is to activate the whitening gel. This can whiten your teeth in just one appointment.

Considerations With Zoom Whitening

With Zoom Whitening, your teeth will get as white as possible in that appointment. If you’re not interested in your teeth being their whitest and want a more subtle white, you’ll want to do traditional teeth whitening.

No matter which type of teeth whitening you choose, you need to be aware that it only works on natural tooth structure. That means, if you have a dental crown or a dental filling, they will not whiten along with your teeth.

That doesn’t mean you can’t whiten them, but rather those things will need to be replaced after your teeth are whitened. The good news is, a good cosmetic dentist can match any color, no matter what level of whiteness you choose.

If you have a crown on a front tooth, make sure your dentist gives you an all porcelain crown. They look much more natural than their metal based counterparts. Again, the dentist matters with this. Make sure your dentist is skilled and artistic. Look at their smile gallery to get an idea about what type of results to expect.

This blog is brought to you by New Orleans Dentist Dr. Duane Delaune.

Zoom Whitening

Regular Versus Zoom Whitening

I want to get my teeth whitened. I was going to my dentist to get those trays but everyone is saying Zoom is better. Should I do that instead? I’m so confused. I tend to be a people pleaser so I feel bad when someone tells me to do something and I pick something else.

Patsy

Dear Patsy,

Patient using Zoom Whitening light

Don’t feel bad about going a different direction if that is what’s better for you. I wouldn’t say that Zoom Whitening is better; just that it is faster. With Zoom, your teeth are whitened quickly in just one appointment.

It uses a special light (pictured above) which activates the whitening gel allowing the process to move faster. Your teeth will get as white as possible in that one appointment.

With at-home whitening, your dentist will use the trays to custom fit them to your teeth, then provide you with professional strength whitening gel. It will get your teeth just as white, it just takes longer and works more gradually.

This is ideal for people who want to control the level of whitening. Or people who don’t want to suddenly show up with super white teeth. Instead, it will happen gradually and won’t be a sudden change which makes it obvious you’ve had your teeth whitened.

So, one is not better than the other, just different ways of accomplishing the same goal— getting your teeth as white as you want them.

When You Want to Change More than Their Color

Some people are thrilled with just getting their teeth whitened. They already have fantastic teeth which just picked up stains as they got older.

Others, however, have several things they wish they could change about their teeth. If that happens to be you, porcelain veneers may be a better option for you. They give you a total smile makeover. The veneers can change the shape, size, and color of your teeth all in one go.

They are more pricey than teeth whitening, so only do it if you want to completely remake your smile.

This blog is brought to you by New Orleans Dentist Dr. Duane Delaune.

Zoom Whitening

Zoom Whitening While on Cipro

I’m on a 14-day course of Cipro for a UTI. I’m scheduled for Zoom whitening in a few days, but I’m still on the medicine. Both the doctor and the pharmacist were adamant that I stay out of the sun. My husband mentioned it might be a bad idea for me to go through with the Zoom until after my Cipro is done. I called the office and they said I’d be fine, but they didn’t leave me very confident so I asked them to check with the dentist. They said he was with a patient but a hygienist said we could just double up on sunscreen. Now I’m even less sure. What do you think I should do?

Elizabeth

Dear Elizabeth,

Zoom Logo

Your dental hygienist is wrong and your husband is right. I’m sure he’s going to love hearing that. When we’re talking about Cipro the reaction can be much more serious than a sunburn. Some patients have a strong reaction after just a moment in the direct sunlight, such as hives and blisters which will cause you complete agony.

You must have a very strong infection. Most prescriptions are 10-day but yours is 14-day. So, whatever you do, don’t stop taking your medicine in order to get your teeth whitened. It will cause the infection to come right back.

You Can Still Get Zoom Whitening

Patient using Zoom Whitening light
The light will cause you problems

The Zoom Whitening light is very strong. It will cause you problems even if they “double up” on your sunscreen. What I recommend is you reschedule your appointment for 3 days after your last dose. Technically, it should be out of your system within 24 hours of your last dose. But, you’re on a stronger dose.

Then, when you can be sure it’s clear you are good to go.

This blog is brought to you by New Orleans Dentist Dr. Duane Delaune.

Zoom Whitening

Zoom Whitening and Marijuana Stains

Let’s say I’m a pot smoker (for medicinal reasons) and that my teeth have started turning a funky kind of color. I’ve been applying for jobs and just got called up for two interviews. I need to whiten my teeth quickly. I’ve been doing some research and know that Zoom is the fastest, but there doesn’t seem to be any information on how it does for marijuana stains. Would it be worth my time?

Jess

Dear Jess,

Zoom Whitening Logo

You’re right that Zoom is the fastest. However, like any teeth whitening, it’s most effective when you’ve recently had your teeth cleaned. Otherwise, the results can be splotchy. My suggestion is you get a checkup and cleaning done, if you haven’t recently, and then schedule a Zoom Whitening right after or the next day or so if you think your mouth will need a break.

As for the research on Zoom Whitening and marijuana stains, I’m sure you can imagine that not many companies want their brand associated as the “pot brand” so there hasn’t been much research done on it. However, with the increase in the legalization of medical marijuana, I’m sure there will be studies done without the worry of the negative publicity that would have brought in the past.

Truthfully, marijuana stains are fairly superficial and easy to remove if done regularly. That means excellent oral hygiene habits at home and faithful adherence to twice a year professional cleanings. If you stick to that after your whitening procedure you shouldn’t have any funky buildup such as you’re currently experiencing.

One thing to be aware of, and another reason to make sure you see your dentist regularly, is the increased chance of gum disease with smoking. Studies have shown that smokers, whether that be cigarette or marijuana, are more likely to develop gum disease than other patients. Most of that is likely due to the decrease in blood flow in your gums as a result of smoking.

Alternatives to Zoom Whitening for that Perfect Smile

If you’re wanting a bit more than just a whiter smile, there are some options. For a mini-smile makeover, you can combine Zoom Whitening or at-home teeth whitening with Invisalign or Six-Month Smiles to have both straighter teeth and a white smile.

However, if you’re wanting to go “all out” for a total smile makeover, I’d suggest you go with porcelain veneers. This can change anything and everything about your smile—it’s shape, size, color, even it’s character.

If you decide to go this route, it’s important you get not just a skilled cosmetic dentist but one with an artistic eye as well. The mynewsmile.com website recommends the best cosmetic dentists in each area. You’ll just have to input your zip code and the distance you’re willing to travel.

This blog is brought to you by New Orleans Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Duane Delaune.

Zoom Whitening

How Can I Avoid Nuclear Teeth if I Get Them Whitened?

I’ve been considering whitening my teeth. They’re showing their age. Plus, I drink a lot of coffee. The only thing holding me back is an episode of the TV show “Friends” where one of the characters has his teeth whitened so much they practically glow in the dark. Is there a way to avoid nuclear teeth if I do decide to get them whitened?

Sam Q. – Nevada

Sam,

A lot of it depends on what type of whitening you do. Zoom Whitening, an in-office procedure, whitens your teeth as much as they can be whitened. At first, they seem super, super white, but the color generally calms down after a week.

However, if you want total control over the level of whitening, then you may consider take-home whitening. It will whiten in increments. You wear it a certain amount of time every day, then when you reach the level of whitening you desire, you’re done. It’s that simple. It can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on how stained your teeth are.

Most dentists will want to do an examination first, to make sure you’re a good candidate for teeth whitening. If you have any fillings, they’ll check those and make sure they’re healthy, etc.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Duane Delaune.

Zoom Whitening

Can I Go to an Office Once for Free Zoom Whitening?

I love my dentist. I’m not wanting to switch offices. However, I’ve wanted Zoom Whitening for a while. It’s out of my price range. While driving back from the grocery store, I noticed an advertisement for a dentist offering free Zoom Whitening to new patients. Is it okay to just go for the one appointment and then switch back to my dentist?

Chloe S. – Atlanta

Chloe,

My first thought is the dentist is probably not offering Zoom Whitening, but professional take-home whitening.  However, I’m not certain. With Zoom, you do one appointment, with a few quick sessions under a light and you’re done. With the take-home trays, you’ll wear the trays a little while each day for a few weeks.

With either procedure, the dentist will require and exam and x-rays.  If you have insurance that covers that, it likely only covers that so many times a year, so call the office and find out exactly what they will require for you to get the whitening special. Then check with your insurance to see what will be covered and what won’t. Otherwise, the free teeth whitening could cost you several hundred dollars.

As for the ethics of going to the dentist for one appointment only, that’s something you’ll have to decide in your conscience. It’s obviously not why the dentist is offering the special. He may be a new dentist just starting up his practice and trying to draw in patients.

Your best bet may be to speak with your current dentist and see if he’ll let you do a Zoom procedure with payment plans. I’m sure he’d be willing to work with you.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Duane Delaune.

Zoom Whitening

How Do I Whiten My Teeth Without Glow in the Dark Teeth?

I’m considering getting my teeth whitened. I had a friend do it and it seemed like she came out of the office with glow in the dark teeth. Is it possible to get white teeth without being visible from outer space?

James – Missouri

James,

Your friend likely had Zoom Whitening. When you first complete the treatment, which is done in one appointment, in-office, the results are startlingly white.  However, it does calm down after a week. They’re still very white, but won’t be “glow-in-the-dark”.

If you’re still concerned, maybe you want white teeth, but not your whitest teeth, than instead of doing Zoom, you could do professional take-home teeth whitening.

Your dentist will custom design whitening trays for your bite. You’ll wear them a minimum of 20 minutes a day, though many people prefer to just sleep in them.  You can decide on the level of whitening you want. When you reach it, simply stop wearing the aligners. You’re in complete control.

This blog is brought to you by Dr. Duane Delaune.

Zoom Whitening

Is Zoom the only thing that will whiten my filling?

I been through some tough times in the last couple of years. I had some depression and self-confidence issues that really set me back and I didn’t take care of myself. I’ve come along way and am in a really good place. I feel good about myself emotionally and now I want to make the outside match the inside. I figured I’d start with my teeth – who doesn’t want a beautiful, white smile? Unfortunately, Zoom whitening was too expensive for me, so I decided to try an at-home kit I found online. It’s been a couple of months and I’ve been using it every day. I can definitely tell my teeth look whiter – except for one small spot where I have filling. How can I get the filling to whiten? I’d rather not pay for Zoom whitening if I can get it done here at home. — Heather

Heather,

It’s so great to hear that things are looking up for you! As for the filling, there’s no amount of whitening that can be done that will change the color of it – not even Zoom. If you want it to look like rest of your teeth, you will have to have it removed and replaced with a shade that matches.

Did the kit you are using recommend whitening every day? If not, you should be careful because many of the stronger formulas can cause problems if overused. Have you experienced any pain or gum irritation?  If so, you should discontinue use immediately so you don’t cause more serious pain or even permanent damage.  You might even notice discolored enamel or  uneven color depending on the product’s strength.

Schedule a consultation with your dentist. It’s always best to have a check up and cleaning before starting a whitening regimen. They can also help troubleshoot any problems you may have or even make custom trays to be used with a professional-strength solution that costs a lot less than expensive in-office procedures. Good luck!

Zoom Whitening

Can I share my leftover Zoom gel with my friend?

It’s been almost a year since I had Zoom whitening done and I love the results! My dentist sent a tray and gel home with me for maintenance and touch-ups, but I haven’t had to use it. My friend wants to try Zoom, and since mine is just sitting around not getting used, I thought why not give the syringes and kit to her? I’m thinking that should be plenty for her to get good results, and there shouldn’t be any problem with her using it, right? — Trixie

Trixie,
I’m sure you were always taught you that it’s good to share, but when it comes to your Zoom take-home whitening kit, think again. Here’s why:

  1. The gel could be expired. Most whitening gels are good for about a year, and if you’ve had it that long, who knows how long your dentist had it before prescribing it to you. It also depends on how and where you stored it (in the fridge vs. a warm place, like your bathroom).  A good indication is it’s color —  if cloudy or white, it’s definitely no good. And even if it’s still clear, there’s no guarantee it will be effective because of age.
  2. Your friend’s current dental state. If she hasn’t see a dentist recently for a cleaning, it can affect the whitening results. Also, any fillings or crowns will not respond to whitening — so if she has dental work on any teeth that show when she smiles, she will definitely be disappointed.
  3. Your trays will not fit anyone else. Your dentist took impressions of your teeth to make a tray just for you. Even if your friend thinks yours sort of fit her mouth, ill-fitting trays cause unevenness and splotching and the gel can ooze onto her gums and cause irritation.

It’s always fun to share with friends, but stick to clothes or your best-kept secrets. If you want to be a good friend, encourage her to visit her dentist and have a custom kit made just for her to ensure she’s smiling in the end.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune. Read more about why many consider Dr. Delaune to be the best dentist in New Orleans.