According to a survey by the Dental Tribune, more than 21% of adults in the United States feel less confident because of their smile. About 33% of this dissatisfaction with their smile is a result of teeth color, as reported by the National Institute of Health. It’s easy to see why many people resort to teeth whitening procedures such as zoom whitening to beautify their smile and regain their self-confidence.
In California, zoom whitening costs an average of $500, with the price ranging from as low as $350 to as high as $1200. The precise amount it costs depends on several factors highlighted in this article.
At Bedford Dental Group, we offer flexible and affordable payment plans to help you get the beautiful smile you deserve with sparkling teeth via zoom teeth whitening. With over 30 years in the cosmetic dental industry, we have a proven track record in transforming oral health and smiles. Reach out to us now, let’s transform your smile and boost your confidence!
In this article, you will learn what zoom whitening is, how much it costs, factors that determine the actual cost, and much more.
What is Zoom Whitening?
Zoom whitening is a professional teeth whitening treatment that utilizes hydrogen peroxide gel and a special ultraviolet light to remove stains and discoloration from the teeth.The zoom whitening procedure usually takes around 45 minutes to an hour and can whiten your teeth by several shades, depending on which you choose.
Zoom teeth whitening treatments rely on the scientific principle of photolysis. The ultraviolet light interacts with the hydrogen peroxide gel, causing it to break down into smaller, colorless components. These smaller molecules easily penetrate the tooth enamel and bleach out the stained pigments, leaving your teeth noticeably brighter.
Unlike other teeth whitening options like over-the-counter strips and trays, whitening toothpaste, and laser whitening, zoom teeth whitening shows effective and fast results under a single appointment with the dentist.
Average Cost of Zoom Whitening
The average zoom whitening cost is around $500 per treatment, with the specific price influenced by various factors. In cities like New York, it costs $700 to $1,200 due to increased demand and overhead costs. In other remote areas, prices might drop to as low as $350-$600.
Note that these are the average costs. The actual cost can vary depending on the factors discussed in the next section.
Zoom Teeth Whitening Cost vs Other Alternatives
At-home whitening kits: These offer budget-friendly options around $20 to $100, but results are slower and less dramatic. Also, improper use can lead to uneven whitening, gum irritation, or damage to tooth enamel.
Laser whitening: Like Zoom whitening sessions, this treatment is also professional. It shows faster results than Zoom but is more expensive, costing around $1,000 to $2,000, with the potential for increased sensitivity. Note also that the intense light and heat generated by the laser can sometimes damage the gums or tooth pulp if not properly managed
Whitening toothpaste: This can remove surface stains but doesn’t offer significant whitening. Some whitening toothpastes can be abrasive, potentially leading to enamel erosion over time, which might increase tooth sensitivity.
If you’re confused about the teeth whitening options suitable for you, book a free consultation with our experienced cosmetic dentists at Bedford Dental Group for expert guidance.
7 Factors That Influence the Cost of Zoom Whitening
While the basic procedure remains consistent, zoom teeth whitening cost can vary significantly depending on several factors including:
1. Geographical Location
Urban regions like New York generally have bigger price tags for zoom teeth whitening treatments due to factors such as increased overhead costs for clinics, higher staff salaries, and more expensive equipment. On the other hand, remote areas may offer relatively lower prices due to lower living costs and less expensive resources.
2. Demand and Competition
The high demand and low competition for cosmetic dentistry also influence the cost of zoom whitening. Cities with a large concentration of people seeking cosmetic dentistry such as Los Angeles, might experience inflated prices due to high demand and limited competition while clinics in smaller towns or remote areas might offer lower prices for whitening treatments due to lower demand and competition.
3. Dental Clinic and Dentist’s Expertise
The clinic’s reputation also plays a big role in influencing the cost. Clinics with a stellar reputation for successful whitening treatments and satisfied clients may charge a premium for that “exclusive” experience. If the clinic also has modern facilities with advanced equipment and technology, they may have higher overheads, reflected in higher pricing. Similarly, experienced cosmetic dentists may charge higher than those new to the field.
4. Consultation Fees
Some clinics charge a separate consultation fee to assess your situation before the actual zoom teeth whitening procedure. This fee may cover the time and expertise your dentist invested. During the consultation, the dentist assesses your teeth, discusses your whitening goals, and sensitivity concerns, and sees if teeth whitening treatment is the right fit for you.
5. Number of Treatment Sessions
Depending on the severity of the teeth stains and the desired level of whitening, you might need additional zoom whitening sessions, increasing the overall cost. For instance, zoom teeth whitening for heavy stains that may require three or more sessions will cost more than mild stain whitening that requires a single session.
6. Type of Whitening Agents Used
Different shades may require different types of whitening gel and this also affects the cost. Zoom whitening requires various gel concentrations, and choosing the right one plays a vital role in the effectiveness and cost of your treatment. That’s why it’s highly recommended to consult with a reputable and experienced cosmetic dentist for professional teeth whitening services so you can be sure you’re treated with the right products.
7. Additional Costs
The zoom teeth whitening process may involve some additional costs during or after the procedure. Such costs may include:
- Post-whitening care: Your dentist may recommend special toothpaste, whitening touch-up kits, or fluoride treatments to maintain your results, adding to the total cost.
- Local anesthesia: If your teeth are sensitive, your dentist might recommend local anesthesia during the teeth whitening procedures, which will incur an additional fee.
- Length of treatment sessions: Depending on the light system used, the individual length of each light cycle might vary, impacting the total treatment time and potentially the cost.
- Special promotions or discounts: Some clinics may offer occasional discounts or promotions, affecting the final price.
How to Maximize Your Investment in Zoom Whitening
Zoom whitening treatment may require more than one session. You may also have to do some post-procedure care yourself and avoid harmful or acidic substances. Here are some essential tips to maximize your investment and keep your teeth white and smile bright for a long time:
- The first few days might bring some teeth sensitivity. Use a gentle toothpaste for sensitive teeth and avoid hot or cold beverages. Your dentist might recommend additional remedies like fluoride treatments.
- Avoid coffee, tea, red wine, and other stain-prone foods and drinks for at least 48 hours. If you must indulge, rinse your mouth with water immediately afterward.
- Smoking is a major stain culprit and negates the whitening effects. Consider this an opportunity to kick the habit for good and be happy with your investment.
- Your dentist might recommend a touch-up kit for occasional home maintenance. Use it sparingly as instructed to maintain your teeth whiteness.
- Sip stain-prone beverages through a straw to minimize their contact with your teeth.
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene with twice-daily brushing and daily flossing. This removes food particles that can stain and keeps your gums healthy.
- Schedule regular visits with your dentist for professional cleanings and checkups. They can monitor your results, address any concerns, and ensure your teeth stay healthy.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your mouth clean and prevent dehydration, which can contribute to staining.
Insurance and Financing Options for Zoom Whitening
Does insurance cover zoom whitening? The short answer is: generally, no. Dental insurance primarily focuses on preventive and medically necessary procedures. Since zoom whitening is a cosmetic dentistry procedure, most insurance plans don’t cover it.
However, if your tooth discoloration is a result of a medical condition or medication side effects, your insurance might partially cover the treatment. Also, some dental discount programs offer reduced rates on cosmetic procedures, including zoom whitening.
To help reduce the financial burden of teeth whitening procedures, some reputable cosmetic dentists offer some easy payment plans to allow you to spread your zoom teeth whitening worth into monthly installments.
Factors to Consider Before Choosing Zoom Whitening
Zoom whitening might not be the best fit for everyone. Before choosing zoom whitening, you need to consider several factors to ascertain that it’s the right choice for your dental health and smile-enhancing goals. Some key factors to consider include:
1. Dental Health of the Patient
If you have cavities, gum disease, sensitive teeth, or cracked enamel, zoom whitening could worsen these issues. The bleaching agents can irritate the sensitive dentin exposed by the cavity, leading to discomfort. Moreover, the whitening gel might not reach the discolored areas within the cavity, leaving you with a patchy, uneven result.
2. Existing Dental Treatments
It’s important to understand that zoom whitening will not enhance the color of other dental treatments such as crowns, porcelain veneers, or fillings. If you have visible dental work, it might not match your whitened natural teeth.
3. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
According to the American Pregnancy Association, it’s recommended to delay any teeth whitening process until after pregnancy. The risks of any substance crossing the placenta or entering breast milk, even in small amounts, are unknown with zoom whitening. So, it’s better to avoid any unnecessary exposure.
4. Cost and Maintenance
Consider the cost of the procedure and the potential need for maintenance. Zoom whitening can be more expensive than other teeth whitening methods, and to maintain the results, you might need follow-up treatments or use at-home whitening products.
5. Nature of the Stain
Some medications, like tetracyclines, can lead to tooth discoloration that zoom whitening might not effectively address. Always disclose your medications to your dentist.
This is why a thorough consultation with your dentist is essential. In the consultation session, your dentist assesses your dental health and suitability for the procedure, discusses your desired outcome, and explains if zoom whitening is the right approach for you.
Don’t hesitate to ask questions, express your concerns, and work together to find the safest and most effective whitening option for you.
Thinking of Getting Zoom Whitening?
How much you spend on zoom teeth whitening may vary depending on factors such as geographic location, demand and competition, type of gel used, and other additional costs. For the best zoom teeth whitening results, make sure you consult with an expert cosmetic dentist with a track record of success in the process.
At Bedford Dental Group, you don’t need to break the bank to get the beautiful smile you desire. With our payment plans, you can pay for your treatment at your own convenience. Schedule a free consultation with us today to discuss your teeth whitening goals and preferences and get started.
