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When it comes to popular cosmetic dental treatments like Zoom! one visit teeth whitening, it’s often hard to find the facts amongst all the marketing. All the websites and ads say that the treatment is safe, the results are reliable, and the appointment itself couldn’t be more convenient, but how do you know if it’s the right option to address your tooth discoloration? To help you make an informed decision, we’re providing a straightforward guide to the limits of what one visit whitening can achieve.

What It Can Do

Most teeth whitening systems use peroxide as the active ingredient. When activated, both hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide release oxygen molecules that eliminate the color molecules responsible for discolorations on the surface of your tooth enamel. Therefore, teeth whitening systems like Zoom! are best used if you have extrinsic tooth stains, like those originating from:

  • Coffee
  • Tea
  • Dark or acidic fruit juices
  • Dark or acidic sauces and condiments, like tomato sauce, soy sauce, and balsamic vinegar

One visit whitening formulas usually contain a higher concentration of peroxides than take home systems or grocery store whitening products, and can effectively remove heavy tobacco stains.

What It Can’t Do

Tooth stains that originate within the enamel (as opposed to its surface) or the dentin layer, simply cannot be treated with a traditional teeth whitening system. This category of stains, called intrinsic staining, include:

  • Tetracycline and other antibiotics
  • Pulp injury that has released blood into the porous dentin layer
  • Excessive exposure to fluoride

Aggressive treatment plans that include one visit whitening followed by take home tray whitening have been known to help patients with intrinsic staining enjoy a whiter smile. However, this type of treatment can cause extreme tooth sensitivity in some patients.

Managing Expectations and Results

Before moving forward with any cosmetic treatment, your dentist will help you determine your specific smile goals and help you understand how different treatment options can reach those goals. If one visit whitening cannot help you meet your smile goals, you may make a good candidate for porcelain veneers or dental bonding.

About Mansfield Dental Associates:

At Mansfield Dental Associates, Dr. Blair Jones and Dr. Seth Harris share the same vision and philosophy when it comes to patient care. We provide thorough, compassionate preventive dental services in addition to a full menu of cosmetic dentistry services, like take home and one visit teeth whitening. Contact our Mansfield, TX dentist office at 817-473-6227 to schedule your next appointment.