ZOOM! is a revolutionary teeth whitening process completed in your dentist’s office. It uses hydrogen gel and a special bleaching lamp for power assistance. It’s a safe, effective practice that many people can complete on a long lunch break—the process takes only 90 minutes. However, you’ll have to take some care with your teeth to maintain the results.
ZOOM! Teeth Whitening Aftercare
The first 48 hours after your ZOOM! Teeth Whitening is the most important, so be aware of what you eat and drink during this time. Certain foods tend to stain teeth, and yours will be particularly vulnerable initially.
Tea and coffee can quickly stain your teeth, but if you must have these or dark-colored sodas for a little caffeine boost, use a straw instead of sipping directly from the mug or glass. Citrus foods should also be limited immediately, as they can weaken the enamel of your teeth.
Additional foods and drinks that can lead to discoloration include:
- Fruit juices
- Red wine
- Darker sauces, such as soy sauce, barbeque sauce, or ketchup
- Dark chocolate
Instead, choose white or lighter-colored vegetables, white meat such as chicken or pork, non-acidic fruits, and clear beverages. Water is always great!
How Long Does ZOOM! Teeth Whitening Last?
After your ZOOM! Teeth whitening sessions have been completed; you can enjoy brighter, whiter teeth. Depending on the number of sessions you receive and the revision level necessary, your teeth may be several shades whiter.
But how long does this last? This depends partly on your aftercare routine, which we’ll get into below. With appropriate care, the ZOOM! results can last up to a year without any touchups, making this a much longer-term solution to stained teeth than at-home whitening kits.
How to Maintain Your ZOOM! Teeth Whitening in the Long Term
After your proper maintenance in the first 48 hours, you can take some additional steps in your daily oral health to maintain the results of your teeth whitening. Oral hygiene can significantly reduce the risk of plaque buildup and stains contributing to a yellowed, dingy smile.
Brush and Floss Regularly
Brush and floss regularly, twice a day, to keep your smile white. Try to brush after every meal to prevent plaque build-up. After teeth whitening, you need to be dedicated to protecting your teeth.
If you can’t brush your teeth right away, rinse with water after eating, or consider carrying a small bottle of antiseptic mouthwash with you, as this can help kill the bacteria that cause plaque.
Avoid Stains
After investing time and money into whiter teeth, it might be a good idea to continue protecting your teeth from undue stains. You may want to use reusable straws when drinking coffee (iced coffee is a great option!) and tea. Additionally, tobacco use can wreak havoc on your health overall, including your teeth. Healthy choices can help protect your teeth and your new, whiter smile.
Boost Your Smile Temporarily With Whitening Toothpaste
You don’t need to use whitening toothpaste every day—it’s better if you don’t—but using it twice a week as a “touch-up” treatment can help keep your results lasting longer. Whitening toothpaste removes mild surface stains, keeping them from building up over time.
A mild teeth-whitening oral rinse is another option that can help break up plaque, minor stains, and excess bacteria.
Follow Up Whitening Treatments
Even the revolutionary ZOOM! will not last forever. You may wish to have follow-up treatments as recommended by your dentist. Some treatments need a boost every six months, while others may only need to be repeated after a couple of years. Depending on the health of your tooth enamel and your dentist’s procedure, they’ll recommend how often you can safely have your teeth whitened.
Keep Up with Your Annual Dental Exams
Lastly, maintaining healthy teeth and gums is the best way to protect your teeth’s aesthetic (and health). Seeing your dentist regularly will ensure your teeth are being properly cared for, and they can monitor the health of your enamel, which is crucial to maintaining your white teeth.
Book Your ZOOM! Whitening Treatment Today!
Ready for a brighter smile? Contact the offices of Kevin Sands, DDS, by calling (310) 273-0111 or visiting us online for a teeth whitening consultation today!