Considering professional tooth whitening? We did a head-to-head
comparison of the two most popular chairside (dentist's office) teeth-whitening
procedures - BriteSmile and Zoom!™.
Professional light-activated whitening has become a popular
choice due to it's speed and effectiveness. Published studies also indicate
that it produces significantly fewer problems with post-treatment discomfort
than dentist-administered take home treatments. Both BriteSmile and Zoom!
are patented processes involving a light-activated peroxide solution and
exposure to a special light.
The
original Zoom! method has been replaced by an improved technology, Zoom
2. We've noted where there are major changes in the improved process.
|
BriteSmile |
Zoom |
# of shades whitened |
9.3 shades or more (average) using
the standard dental Vita-Pan guide. Up to a maximum of 14 shades. |
8 shades (avg) on the VitaPan
guide (Zoom! 2 only). Most patients achieve 6-10 shades. |
How long does it take? |
about 1 hour |
about 1 hour |
How long does it last?
|
BriteSmile whitening can last for years. Use of after care products
is advised for maximum effect. |
With proper aftercare and occasional home touch-ups, the whitening
effects can last for years.
|
Solution ingredients |
15% peroxide buffered at a near-neutral pH in a gel engineered
to respond to the blue wavelength of the BriteSmile light.
Glycerin and highly purified water prevent tooth dehydration. |
A light-activated and PH balanced, 20% Hydrogen Peroxide gel. |
Light |
BriteSmile's blue wavelength light is not a laser. It is a mercury
vapor plasma arc lamp, which emits virtually no heat, no harmful
UV (ultraviolet) light and is clinically proven safe for tooth enamel,
skin, gums, and other soft tissues.
The light is specially shaped to evenly shine on just your smile
line (teeth visible when you smile). |
A mercury, metal halide lamp which is filtered to emit light in the
350nm to 450nm range. The light uses an infrared filter to reduce heat
at the tooth surface, and, per a study by the University Health Research
Group Inc., Zoom's light emits small but not significant amounts of
UVB (ultra-violet).
Guides placed in your mouth insure that the light is aligned properly. |
What you'll experience
|
To prepare for the process, a substance
which hardens to form a protective shield is first painted onto your
gums and lips.
Next the whitening gel is applied to your teeth and
the lamp is positioned and turned on for 20 minutes. During this
time, you need to remain still but can listen to music, watch TV
or sleep.
The application of the whitener followed by the light
is repeated 2 more times.
At the end of the process, the protective material
is removed and you're done. |
First, a clinician applies protective
substances to insure that all soft tissue in and around your mouth
(gums, lips, etc.) are isolated and protected.You are also given
a face bib to protect your skin and protective eyewear to wear. Guides
are placed in the mouth in order to precisely align the Zoom light.
Following the preparation period, the bleaching solution is applied,
the light is turned on, and the actual whitening occurs. This is
done 3 times for 20 minutes each. During this time the patient can
listen to music, some even fall asleep.
A 5 minute flouride treatment follows
the procedure. |
Not intended for: |
Children age 13 and under, pregnant or lactating women. |
Children age 13 and under, pregnant or lactating women. |
Additional Precautions |
None. |
Light sensitive individuals including those undergoing PUVA (Psoralen+UV
Radiation) therapy or other photo-chemotherapy, as well as patients
with melanoma, should not have the Zoom! In-Office procedure.
Additionally,
if you are taking any drugs which can cause light-sensitivity
(over the counter, herbal or prescription) you should first consult
with your physician. |
Safety studies |
Independent safety studies by the University of Medicine
and Dentistry of New Jersey, reviewed by senior researchers at NYU,
concluded that BriteSmile's professional teeth whitening treatment
is safe.
A recently published study on BriteSmile in JADA (Journal of the
American Dental Association) validated that it was safe and effective
with lasting results. |
Unknown. |
Afterwards |
About 20% of those undergoing the procedure
experience a temporary increase in tooth sensitivity. This only
lasts 1-2 days, and most people find relief using over-the-counter
medications (Advil®,
Tylenol® ...). Your dentist can prescribe stronger medication
if necessary.
|
About 20% of those undergoing this process
will experience increased tooth sensitivity, including sharp pains
or a persistant mild to moderate ache, which can last for a comple
of days. Your dentist can prescribe medication if needed.
Zoom2 claims to produce 67% less sensitivity in patients than those
treated with the original Zoom! system |
Cost (Approximate)
|
$499 - $599, but $299-$399 during
seasonal sales and promos.
|
$400-$600. No price is given on the manufacturer's
website, price quotes we found on participating dentist's sites
were around $500. |