When it comes to getting whiter teeth, you have options. In fact, you probably have way too many options! How do you know what over-the-counter product is best or whether a take-home kit from your dentist will work for you?
A conversation with Dr. Stephen Hiroshige can help you understand the difference between the various products and services available to you to whiten and brighten your teeth. Dr. Hiroshige offers both take-home kits and Zoom! whitening. In this post, we take a closer look at Zoom whitening and why it could be the right choice for you.
Both our at-home whitening kits and in-office Zoom! whitening services result in whiter teeth. There are, however, distinct differences between these two services.
First, as you probably deduced from the names, our at-home kits are products that you take home to use. They differ from over-the-counter products in that the solution used to whiten your teeth is stronger and the trays are custom-made to fit your teeth.
Since you’re using the kit under Dr. Hiroshige’s supervision, the solution is professional strength. The better-fitting trays mean that the solution is constantly in contact with your teeth so that it can work.
One other difference is that you’ll need to use your at-home kit several times, and your teeth will become whiter over time. Zoom whitening typically lightens your teeth several shades in a single visit.
When you choose an in-office Zoom! treatment, you can expect to leave with a brigher, whiter smile in about an hour.
If you have a busy or chaotic schedule, the single visit factor may be important enough to make the decision an easy one. You won’t need to remember to use your kit on the designated days or keep up with your supplies if you have a single, effective treatment.
When you have Zoom whitening, we use a whitening gel along with a special LED light that activates the whitening agents in the gel. In most cases, we do this three times, for 15 minutes each time.
Some people experience sensitivity after the procedure, so we apply a sensitivity-reducing fluoride paste to your teeth.
Once your teeth are whitened and looking great, you will want to maintain the look. One of the best ways to do that is to be aware what kinds of foods and beverages can lead to staining.
Avoiding tea, coffee, red wine, dark colas, and foods like blueberries, or marinara sauce may be helpful. Excellent dental hygiene is also crucial, as well as regularly scheduled professional cleanings.
We may also suggest using an at-home touch-up kit, and we will provide you with the supplies to do that. When you leave our office, you’ll have thorough and specific instructions on caring for your beautiful new smile.
If you’d like to learn more about professional whitening and discuss which option may be best for you, schedule an appointment with Dr. Hiroshige. He’s happy to answer your questions and make personalized suggestions.
