If your over-the-counter tooth whitening product fails to produce the desired effects, you may seek stronger alternatives from your dentist. Laser teeth whitening and Zoom! are the two most popular teeth whitening techniques.
The laser and Zoom! may appear to be the same thing. Both are professional treatments provided by dentists, and they operate similarly. However, there are some differences between them.
Laser whitening and Zoom! similarities
To whiten teeth, both laser teeth whitening and Zoom! use a similar procedure. Both procedures involve the application of a hydrogen peroxide-based bleaching agent to the teeth. This gel solution is activated with the use of a specific dental device (Zoom! employs light rather than a laser). Oxidation is a chemical reaction that allows the bleaching agent to penetrate the enamel of the tooth and brush away stains.
A laser whitening session usually lasts less than an hour. Zoom! is similar, except it is usually done in three sequential gel applications, each with a 15-minute delay while the light works.
After just one visit to the dentist, you may see noticeable results from both teeth whitening methods. But if you have more severe stains, you may need to return several times to achieve the ideal color of your teeth.
Another similarity is after-care and maintenance. Teeth may be more sensitive to discoloration immediately following treatment than usual. Patients should avoid eating or drinking anything that could stain their teeth during the first week. This means no more coffee or spaghetti for a time.
To preserve brightness, the dentist may also prescribe at-home whitening trays. They are typically used once a month for about a half-hour. Whatever type of whitening is used, it will not last forever. Most individuals require whitening refreshment treatment every six months or so.
Zoom! and laser teeth whitening differences
The primary distinction between Zoom! and laser teeth whitening is the dental equipment used to activate the hydrogen peroxide solution.
In laser whitening, the name speaks for itself. The specific laser instrument heats and oxidates the bleaching solution for better whitening. Because the laser's beam is so small, it takes the dentist some time and skill to brighten each tooth.
Results of teeth whitening
Zoom! and laser tooth whitening both provide better results than at-home whitening. Dentists can use far higher concentrations of hydrogen peroxide than are available in over-the-counter solutions. Most products on the market contain 7-10% hydrogen peroxide; however, dentists can use 25-35%.
Even though the dentist uses more powerful methods, the outcome varies from patient to patient. A lot relies on the source of the teeth stains. Deeper stains that have entered the enamel of the teeth are more difficult to remove than surface stains caused by food and drink.
Cautions
Teeth whitening is safe, especially when performed by a dentist. However, there are a few common precautions:
- First, whitening should only be done on healthy teeth.
- Protection for your teeth, gums, and eyes is a must.
- Children under the age of 13, pregnant or breastfeeding women should not have their teeth whitened.
After Zoom! or laser therapies, for some time you may still feel a tingling sensation in your teeth or a sensation similar to electric shocks. Usually, this wears off quickly. However, if you have a severe tooth or gum sensitivity, e chemicals or heat from teeth whitening treatments can aggravate it.
Zoom! and laser prices
The cost of teeth whitening varies substantially depending on the dentist and the locality. Zoom! teeth whitening costs around $500 on average. Laser teeth whitening is more expensive, sometimes costing up to $1000. This is frequently due to the magnitude of the laser's beam, which requires extra time and attention from the dentist.
How to choose between Zoom! and laser teeth whitening?
When comparing Zoom! vs. laser tooth whitening, it is hard to determine a clear winner. Both are comparable, take around the same time, and produce comparable results. Usually, it is a matter of personal preference. In fact, selecting a dentist overtreatment may be more crucial.
Dentists that provide teeth whitening often recommend the approach that they believe produces the best outcomes for their customers. They become proficient in the use of their favored products. When you have a dentist you trust, it makes sense to listen to their advice on the teeth whitening treatment they would recommend for you.
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