Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure designed to make teeth look brighter and whiter, often used to reduce stains and discoloration. Modern dentistry has evolved significantly, offering more effective and comfortable treatment options than in the past. When choosing a dentist, it’s important to find a provider who combines clinical skill with convenience. That’s why having access to our dentist open on Saturday can make it easier for families to maintain regular care and keep their smiles looking healthy and bright.
One of the most common cosmetic treatments offered by our dentist (open on Saturday) is professional teeth whitening. If you are considering teeth whitening in the Bronx, there are several effective options available.
The most common whitening methods, ranked by effectiveness, include:
- Laser teeth whitening: The most expensive method, but probably the fastest way to get whiter teeth
- Zoom teeth whitening: A dentist uses a hydrogen peroxide gel and an ultraviolet lamp to whiten your teeth, and Zoom teeth whitening is less expensive than laser whitening
- Whitening gel: This method can be done at home or at your dental clinic
- Whitening strips: An at-home method for teeth whitening using bleaching strips
- Whitening paint-on gel: Another at-home method
- Whitening toothpaste, rinses, and chewing gum: These techniques are all do-it-yourself techniques; effects take a while to become noticeable
The Basics of Whitening
Teeth whitening is primarily a cosmetic procedure specifically created to enhance your personal appearance. There’s no medical reason that teeth need to be white; it’s a matter of preference. But it’s the nation’s desire for straighter, whiter, better-looking teeth that’s fueling the innovations and changes in the dental industry. More methods to accomplish a smile makeover are being discovered regularly.
Teeth whitening costs can vary widely, so you need to choose the teeth whitening cost that makes the most sense. It could be a valuable investment, for example, if you’re in line for a promotion or a part in a new television show.
Lasers for Whiter Teeth
The best teeth whitening tools currently in use are lasers. They represent the most advanced — and the most expensive — techniques for whitening teeth. Laser whitening isn’t for everyone. This procedure takes around an hour, but results and costs can vary widely.
Laser teeth whitening employs the use of bleach, coupled with the heat generated by a laser. The bleach is very strong, and the laser activates it for dramatically whiter teeth. This technique can have some side effects, such as residual sensitivity in your teeth, gums, and lips.
Zooming to a Whiter Smile
Zoom teeth whitening usually takes less than an hour, but most Bronx dentists prefer that you get a regular dental cleaning first. Once completed, your dental hygienist prepares your mouth for the treatment.
The first step is covering your lips and gums, leaving only your teeth exposed. Hydrogen peroxide whitening gel is then applied to a specific area. The gel removes stains and discolorations. After 15 minutes of treatment with ultra-violet light, the hygienist moves on to the next area of your mouth. Total treatment time is usually around 45 minutes.
As soon as the Zoom whitening is done, your hygienist applies special toothpaste to reduce your teeth and gums’ sensitivity. The Zoom whitening technique is painless, but your gums may be more sensitive for a few days afterward.
Zooming at Home
Before you leave our dental office in the Bronx, our dentist will supply you with custom-made whitening trays and a touch-up kit for home use. He provides directions for the continued use of the Zoom whitening kit at home. You’re also given a list of foods and drinks to avoid.
This list usually includes:
- Tea
- Coffee
- Red wine
- Cola
- Tobacco
- Curries
- Red or purple grapes
All of these foods contain elements that could stain your newly whitened teeth. Regular dental checkups and cleaning, as well as whitening toothpaste, maintain your new look.
The Zoom Whitening Cost
The Zoom teeth whitening cost in the Bronx averages about $500 and includes the cost of the custom-made whitening trays you take home. Your Zoom whitening cost is significantly less than the cost of laser teeth whitening.
Zoom whitening isn’t recommended for children under the age of 13 or for women who are pregnant or lactating. Another thing to remember is that Zoom whitening does not work the same for everyone. Your cosmetic dentist wants you to feel good about your smile, so he does everything he can to determine which type of whitening process will get you the look you desire.
Do you have any questions about the Zoom whitening (laser teeth whitening) procedure? For more in-depth information or to schedule an appointment with our experienced dental team, please contact our clinic for a consultation. Our Co-op City and Claremont dentist offers professional Zoom whitening treatments to brighten your smile safely and effectively.