Tooth Whitening| Philips Zoom Teeth Whitening
There are many products and techniques available for patients who want to achieve a brighter smile, and with so many options available, it can be difficult to choose the method that is right for you.
The best way to begin any teeth-whitening regimen is to schedule an appointment and talk to your doctor about the differences between in-office professional whitening and at-home whitening.
In-office teeth whitening
The first professional option is commonly referred to as in-office whitening. This procedure is performed in a dental office.
During an appointment, your dental professional will apply a whitening gel to the surface of your teeth. The entire office visit generally takes about 90 minutes and you will be able to see results immediately.
At-home teeth whitening – tray whitening
Tray bleaching is a type of professional whitening that uses custom-made trays and whitening gel only available through your dentist. The whitening gel is placed in custom-fitted trays that fit perfectly over your teeth. As the peroxide in the gel breaks down, hydroxyradicals help whiten stained teeth. Unlike strips, this process whitens all your natural teeth and may contain ingredients intended to provide maximum comfort.
At-home professional tray whitening generally takes ten to 14 days, although you may notice results in as little as three to five days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is a good candidate for teeth whitening?
Literally, anyone without completely artificial teeth is a possible candidate to benefit from a professional tooth whitening procedure. It comes down to the question if you are satisfied with the current colour of your teeth. External stains can be removed by a professional cleaning, but internally discoloured teeth will probably need whitening to suit your demands.
Does the whitening system work on pre-existing dental work?
The process brightens the natural enamel of the tooth and therefore does not affect pre-existing dental work. If the dental work is discoloured and too dark, it might need to be replaced to match the new tooth shade, should a bleaching process proceed.
Is tooth whitening bad for my teeth?
Studies of teeth whitening products based on 10% carbamide peroxide showed no effect on the hardness or mineralization of a tooth’s enamel, so you will not have any physical, structural damage to your tooth. Professional teeth whitening is therefore widely considered harmless among professionals.
How much whiter can I expect my teeth to get?
While results from whitening vary from client to client and cannot be predicted or guaranteed with absolute accuracy, in general, teeth can brighten up from 6 to 12 shades on the whitening shade guide. The results depend on how discoloured the teeth were, to begin with. Yellow or brown teeth are responding very positively. In some severe cases though, additional whitening procedures may be needed to achieve the desired shade.
How long do the teeth whitening effects last?
Teeth whitening is not permanent. People who expose their teeth to foods and beverages that cause staining may see the whiteness start to fade in as little as one month. If you avoid some of the most staining foods and beverages the results remain stable for at least one year until you might need to come for a touch-up.
How long does the whitening treatment take?
It only takes 30-45 minutes, (2-3 x 15-minute applications) to achieve a whiter and brighter smile. It is broken down into two to three 15-minute applications to fully allow for maximum gel concentration and light exposure, without causing too much gum irritation or hypersensitivities.
what happens during teeth whitening?
When you visit our office for a tooth whitening procedure, we will apply a specially formulated whitening gel onto your teeth after applying a gum protection mask. We also use a specific type of light (Opalescence / Zoom) to enhance the whitening effect of the gel.
Does the teeth whitening hurt?
Teeth whitening may cause reversible thermal sensitivity and/or slight discomfort of the gums. Being temporary side effects only, both will eventually subside usually 1-2 days after the procedure. If you experience any of the above-mentioned side-effects please inform us so we can advise you how to manage them.
How can I make my whitening results last longer?
There are several ways to maintain the brightness after the whitening procedure, like avoiding to eat or drink some typical staining food and beverages such as coffee, tea, soda, berries, and anything tomato-based. If you still choose to eat and drink any of these, you can limit discolouration by rinsing your mouth and brushing your teeth afterwards. Professional Cleanings are another splendid tool to keep a bright and healthy smile.
Why is professional whitening better than a counter solution from the convenience store?
The greatest benefit of professional tooth whitening is safety, effectiveness, and last but not least speed. Unlike the rather under-dosed over-the-counter products, professional whitening uses a higher concentrated formula that gives you a whiter smile in a single session.