Teeth Whitening FAQs

Teeth whitening is an economical, easy, and impactful way to improve your smile. Zoom! teeth whitening is obtainable with in-office treatment that can be completed in one brief appointment; or for patients wishing to whiten in the privacy of home, a customized kit is available for bleaching at home.

Some of the most commonly asked questions about teeth whitening are:

Is whitening at home as effective as in-office whitening?

While the results will be similar, at-home whitening takes longer and requires steadfast attention and may not produce the results you seek. In-office whitening is completed in one brief appointment with a dazzling outcome.

Are there side effects I should worry about?

Zoom! teeth whitening is a very safe and effective way to achieve a smile makeover. If you suffer from sensitivity, you might use a toothpaste geared to curb sensitivity for a couple of weeks prior to whitening. A dental exam prior to whitening will identify any existing issues that might dampen your candidacy for teeth whitening.

I need some restorative work – what should come first?

You definitely need to whiten first. That way your cosmetic dentist will be able to match your new dental work to your newly lightened teeth shade. Teeth whitening will not alter the appearance of porcelain.

How long can I expect the effects of whitening to last?

This largely depends on you and your habits. Beverages such as coffee, tea, red wine and cola can have the ability to produce teeth stain that can impact the longevity of your teeth whitening experience. Other factors to consider include: consumption of brightly colored berries, tomato based foods, foods that contain dyes, smoking and tobacco use.

Is teeth whitening a covered benefit?

Teeth whitening is considered a cosmetic treatment and is not covered by dental insurance.

Why should I spend more on acquiring teeth whitening from my dentist when I can buy products online and my local drug store?

Whether using in-office treatment or whitening at home, professional whitening contains the most powerful whitening agents available. That is because they are dispensed by your dentist who is licensed and trained to provide these products. This benefit is lost when purchasing generic products.

To learn more about your teeth whitening options, contact our office and schedule your informative consultation today.