Other Treatments

Take-Home Zoom Whitening

Rather than spending time in the orthodontist’s office getting whitening treatments, take them home and do them where you’re comfortable. Take-home Zoom whitening treatments are safe and effective, providing results in just one to two weeks. Having a bright, white smile is great for restoring your confidence.

Zoom whitening treatments are safe to use and provide just the right amount of hydrogen peroxide to whiten the teeth without making them overly sensitive. It’s great for breaking down and removing years of built-up stains. Plus, the formula includes amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP), which reduces tooth sensitivity.

How to Use Take-Home Zoom Whitening Kits

Take-home Zoom whitening treatments start with a consultation at our office. Here, Dr. Ouellette can discuss your goals and help you decide which kind of take-home treatment you’d like to try, how to use it, and so on. This is also a good time to ask any questions and make sure you are armed with the information you need to ensure you are whitening your teeth safely.

Once you’ve gotten your kit and your custom whitening trays, you’re ready to begin using them.

Start by taking your trays and adding a small dot of the formula to each tooth space. Be careful not to use too much, as this can cause sensitivity and even a burning sensation. Put in the trays for the allotted time and repeat as many times per day or week as noted in the instructions.

If you experience any sensitivity, reduce the amount of time you wear the trays and speak with Dr. Ouellette about it. You want to ensure you are being safe and taking care of your teeth.

After two weeks, you should reduce treatment to once every four to six weeks. This maintenance will ensure you maintain your results and keep your teeth looking white every time you smile.

Ortho 101

What is orthodontics?

Orthodontics (also referred to as dentofacial orthopedics) is a specialized form of dentistry focusing on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial abnormalities.

What is an orthodontist?

An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has received two to three years of additional training and experience. Your orthodontist is able to straighten teeth, correct misaligned jaw structure, and improve the function of your smile.

What’s the best age to visit the orthodontist?

If you want to improve the look and feel of your smile, then any age can be a great age to see an orthodontist. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children first visit an orthodontist around the age of seven; however, orthodontic treatment is not exclusive to children and teens, with about one in every five orthodontic patients being over the age of 21. Whether you’re considering treatment for yourself or for a child, any time is a good time to visit the orthodontist.

How can I take care of my teeth if I’m wearing braces or a retainer?

ALWAYS remember to brush your teeth after every meal and floss at least once a day. Make sure to use toothpaste that contains fluoride, and ask your orthodontist or family dentist if you need a fluoride rinse. This will help prevent cavities!

If you take out your retainer to eat, make sure you brush your teeth, floss, and remember to keep it safe in its container so that it does not get lost or broken.

Keep your retainer clean, too, by brushing it gently with a toothbrush and toothpaste. You may also soak it in denture cleaner as instructed by your orthodontist. Do not put your retainer in boiling water or in the dishwasher.
During your treatment, try to avoid foods with a lot of sugar, which increases the number of bacteria that grows in your mouth, causing more plaque and possibly cavities.

Avoid sticky and chewy foods (caramel, chewing gum, gummy bears), hard foods (hard candy, nuts, ice cubes), or any foods that could possibly get stuck in your braces (corn on the cob, soft bagels, ribs, taffy, etc.).

During Treatment, do I still need dental checkups every six months?

Yes! In fact, it’s even more important that patients receiving orthodontic treatment visit their dentist regularly. With braces, food may be caught in places that your toothbrush can’t reach. This causes bacteria to build up that can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. Your dentist will work closely with your orthodontist to make sure that your teeth stay clean and healthy while wearing braces.

How do I schedule my next appointment?

Simply call our practice! Our front desk team will be happy to help schedule your next appointment at your convenience. If you are a new patient or have been referred to our practice, please let us know and we will provide you with all of the information you need.