Zoom!® Teeth Whitening in Lake Oswego, OR

Dental professionals generally regard professional teeth whitening as an extremely safe cosmetic dentistry procedure. ZOOM! in-office teeth whitening is always conducted under the supervision of a dental professional and only after a consultation. 

The pre-whitening consultation allows Dr. Bowden to understand your unique oral health needs, ensure your mouth is healthy enough for teeth whitening, and understand how strong of a treatment to use.

Professional teeth whitening reduces the chances of bleaching gel potentially damaging your enamel and increasing post whitening sensitivity. 

ZOOM! Teeth Whitening takes things a step further with its specially developed whitening gel. Not only does this whitening gel actually strengthen your enamel, it significantly reduces the chance of post-whitening sensitivity. 

Non-custom bleaching trays, like those found in store bought whitening kits, can often fit improperly and fail to restrict the bleaching agent to your teeth. 

ZOOM! in-office professional teeth whitening almost completely eliminates the chances of gum irritation by not relying on bleaching trays. During your ZOOM! procedure, your gums, tongue, and lips will be protected with measures like gauze, vitamin E oil, and plastic barriers. 

ZOOM! offers predictably brilliant results, taking the guesswork out of your whitening procedure. It’s so thorough that with proper post-whitening aftercare, you’ll be able to see a difference in your teeth years later!

Intrinsic stains are stains which penetrate the enamel and take hold beneath it. This type of stain is impossible to remove without help from a dental professional. ZOOM! Teeth Whitening uses an LED lamp, which helps bring stains to the surface where the whitening gel can eliminate them.

Store bought whitening kits are tempting due to their affordability and accessibility. However, Dr. Bowden recommends against starting any dental treatment, including teeth whitening, without consulting him first. 

Dental treatments are not one-size-fits-all and what works for one person may be totally ineffective or even harmful for you. Using over-the-counter whitening kits without prior dental consultation increases your chances of:

• Irritation
• Post-whitening sensitivity
• Damage to your enamel
• Unsatisfactory results

Dr. Bowden will be able to diagnose your oral health to determine if your mouth is healthy enough for teeth whitening and more accurately gauge which treatments will and won’t work for you.  

In order to treat intrinsic stains, professional teeth whitening agents penetrate the surface of your enamel and expose the dentin layer. The dentin layer houses living tissue and nerves inside of your teeth. Upon exposure to these bleaching agents, it’s not uncommon to experience some mild discomfort and sensitivity.

Fortunately, this sensitivity tends to go away on its own within three days. ZOOM! Teeth Whitening reduces post-whitening discomfort, but some minor sensitivity is normal. If you want to manage post-whitening sensitivity, Dr. Bowden recommends following these tips:

• Use tooth mousse
• Coat your teeth in vitamin E oil
• Use toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth and a soft-bristled toothbrush
• Avoid ingesting hot and cold foods and drinks for three days after your whitening procedure
• Take an over the counter pain reliever

If you experience sensitivity lasting more than three days, call our office in Lake Oswego, OR by dialing (503) 675-7300 or filling out our online contact form. 

To maintain your new smile, Dr. Bowden recommends following these tips:

1. Avoid certain foods and drinks that are likely to stain your teeth. Some of these include red wine, coffee, tea, blueberries, and curry.
2. Avoid smoking and using tobacco products, as they can leave nicotine stains and cause your teeth to appear yellow.
3. Maintain your oral hygiene by brushing your teeth for two minutes at least twice a day, flossing at least once a day, and attending bi-annual dental exams with Dr. Bowden.