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Step 1
Prepare for the application of the Zoom! teeth whitening system by brushing and flossing thoroughly before you arrive at the dentist's office. Since Zoom! uses ultraviolet light to enhance the effectiveness of the bleaching process, any food particles or plaque may obstruct the whitening process. You may want to schedule a professional teeth cleaning just prior to the Zoom! treatment.
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Step 2
Allow your dentist to prepare your teeth for the Zoom! teeth whitening system by placing plastic guards over your gums and teeth. This will isolate your teeth from exposure to both the bleaching and lighting process and protect the rest of your mouth from possible damage from the chemicals. It will usually take your dentist approximately 30 minutes to prepare your teeth for the Zoom! treatment.
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Step 3
Have your dentist apply the whitening gel to your teeth. A hydrogen-peroxide solution must be mixed with an activating chemical just prior to application for the best results. This gel will then have a 25 percent concentration of hydrogen peroxide instead of the 6 to 10 percent concentration of most over-the-counter teeth whitening products.
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Step 4
Relax as your dentist aims a mercury-halide lamp at your exposed teeth. This intense light combines with the activating chemical to produce a much more rapid change in the brightness of your teeth. Both your upper and lower teeth will be exposed to the entire bleaching and lighting process for about 1 hour, with reapplication of the gel occurring every 20 minutes.
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Step 5
Refrain from brushing or flossing your teeth immediately after the Zoom! teeth whitening system has been applied. In most cases, you will be able to resume your normal dental-care routine the next day. Your dentist may also offer you an additional whitener for use at home, generally in the form of a gel or rinse.
