My story (with photos) of teeth whitening gone wrong.
Before my kids (grades 4, 6, and 8) go to school each day, I tell them two things: "Have a good day. Ask good questions." Asking good questions is a good way to learn things, and it's and idea that I got from reading books by Richard P. Feynman, whose dad taught him to be inquisitive.Yesterday, I had my teeth whitened at my dentist's office using the Zoom Teeth Whitening system. With the Zoom whitening system, your dentist applies a bleach solution to your teeth and shines an ultraviolet light on your teeth to brighten them. A plastic protective coating (which goes on as a gel and then hardens) is applied to your gums to protect them. Sunscreen is applied to your lips. After three 15-minutes sessions (between which the bleach solution is re-applied and protective coatings are checked), your teeth should be noticeably brighter.
Unfortunately, many unpleasant side-effects have been reported, including:
- burned gums
- irritated gums
- painful gums
- swollen gums
- burned lips
- irritated lips
- painful lips
- swollen lips
- burned upper lip
- irritated upper lip
- painful upper lip
- swollen upper lip
- burned lower lip
- irritated lower lip
- painful lower lip
- swollen lower lip
- painful teeth
- sensitive teeth
- teeth stingers
In my case, my upper lip (which felt warm during the procedure) was numb after the procedure. Numb like I had been playing the trumpet for hours. About four hours after the procedure, my lip was noticeably swollen, like I'd had a huge Botox injection. This morning, 13.5 hours after the procedure, here's what my lip looked like:
In this picture, my face is relaxed. I am not smiling. It looks like I was punched in the upper lip and feels horrible.
On the positive side, my teeth are considerable whiter. And I have only minor tooth pain. Then again, my teeth are not particularly sensitive. I have always been able to sink my teeth into ice cream without cringing. I suggest that this is a good test for whether or not you should get this procedure.
But I am kicking myself for not doing my research before I had the Zoom Teeth Whitening procedure done. Had I known about the numerous complications, I might not have done it. Had I known that I might have to miss work for a day or two, I might not have done it. I am not blaming my dentist or Zoom Teeth Whitening, but I am a bit surprised that neither fully disclosed the possible risks. I am an educated individual, and I naively assumed that this procedure must be safe and simple because it is routinely performed by dentists. I guarantee you that I am not alone in my thinking. Most people simply do not ask enough questions when they are receiving medical or dental care. They just trust the judgment of their care provider.
Before you decide to get your teeth whitened, ask good questions.
254 comments:
«Oldest ‹Older 1 – 200 of 254 Newer› Newest»This morning, the blistering on my upper lip is about the same, perhaps a little worse.
There is also a large white sore inside my lower lip. Looks like a giant canker sore.
Some possible irregularities from my procedure on 04/03/08:
1. No cloth covering was used over my mouth as I've seen in other photos of the Zoom whitening system. My dentist tried to fit it over the mouth-opening apparatus, but it didn't appear to fit, so he didn't use it.
2. I had four 15-minute sessions. Most people have three.
3. After the procedure, my dentist said that this was the first time they had used this new Zoom machine. I guess they had used an older Zoom machine previously. Was I the (unwilling, unknowing) guinea pig?
I cannot eat any hard or salty foods. I am drinking only lukewarm bland liquids, mostly water. My mouth is throbbing today. I am taking extra strength Tylenol for the pain.
I called my dentist this morning (left voice mail) to tell them that I have apparent burns and blisters on the outside and inside of my mouth.
Never again.
Yesterday afternoon, I started treating my lips with vitamin E cream (Nature's Bounty brand, available over-the-counter from most pharmacies). After applying thee cream, my lips sting intensely for several minutes. (I'm talking eye-watering intense pain.) Then minor relief is provided.
Dead skin just started pealing away from my upper lip, exposing raw hyper-sensitive skin underneath.
It is painful to move my mouth. Talking and eating are possible but painful. I haven't kissed my wife in days.
This sucks.
My work phone number is 978-823-0008.
I live in Acton, Massachusetts (Acton, MA), 01720.
[...] Read more at the article’s author blog [...]
I spent the weekend peeling layers of dead skin off of both my upper and lower lips. Eating hard foods remains difficult. I'm avoiding colored liquids, hot liquids, and cold liquids.
This morning, the center part of my upper lip remains numb. The swelling on both lips has gone down. The canker sore remains but appears to be slowly healing.
I'm still applying the vitamin E cream (which stings like the dickens) liberally multiple times per day.
Five days post-whitening. I still can't feel the center part of my upper lip. The canker sore (or whatever it is) is getting smaller on the inside of my lower lip. Still doing vitamin E cream (more or less hourly), which still stings like crazy.
Oh man! That's just awful. I hope your teeth stay white for the rest of your life!
Six days post-whitening. The burned (cooked, sunburned - pick your verb) portion of my upper lip no longer has facial hair. The hair folicles appear to be dead. That would be one thing if I had paid for laser hair removal.
Once you have had a sunburn, you are at more risk for skin cancer. So now I get to live with the fear of increased risk of mouth cancer.
And the numb/dead part of my upper lip is (or in my case, was) the most sensitive part of the mouth. It's the part you use to tell if liquids are too hot (or too cold) to drink. The part that you first feel your partner's kiss with.
My dentist called to apologize yesterday. That's nice, but it doesn't fix my mouth or make up for the hell I've been through this past week.
Guess what we just received in the mail? A bill from my dentist for the teeth whitening. With $100 "courtesy discount" and a $400 balance due.
I take back what I said earlier. I think that there is ample blame to go around for this incident, including my dentist.
No, I don't plan on paying.
I am not the litigious type, but for the first time in my life, I am considering a malpractice lawsuit.
Insult, meet injury.
As a dental professional I feel that maybe you should be in touch w/ the company Zoom they are the manufacturer ask questions and educate the rest of us on this product and the effects. Bleaching always causes sensitivity this is not for everyone at least you have whiter teeth now lol
Greetings Elizabeth,
Bleach is not meant to be put in the human mouth.
Ultraviolet light is not meant to be shined on the human mouth.
Teeth whitening is dangerous. My upper lip may never recover.
Regards,
Erik
Hi Erik:
You might be interested to know that a study published in the dental literature in 2003 showed no advantage to the use of UV light as compared to the application of dental gel alone (mentioned on NPR today). When I asked my dentist about Zoom (a couple of years ago) he told me that bleaching gels work just as well at about half the cost.
I used the gel and after a week or so, the difference was obvious.
All the best!
JB
PS: I'm also a huge Feynman fan!
JB
I haven't shaved for a couple of days. I want to take a photo to show how hair has stopped growing on the injured portion of my upper lip (which is still numb).
Immediately following the whitening procedure, I had an odd taste in my mouth. Kind of a metallic taste, if that makes any sense. Nothing makes it go away. Not brushing, not mints, not rinsing my mouth. I still have that metallic taste in my mouth today.
Greetings John,
And here the URL for yesterday's story on National Public Radio about ultraviolet (UV) light teeth whitening (e.g. Zoom and BrightSmile).
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=89514447
Regards,
Erik
Well, I just had the Zoom bleaching done on my teeth yesterday, and part of my upper lip also is swollen and red. Not as drastic as yours, however. I could feel the tray shield heating up near the area that is now burned, but really trusted that the shield was making things safe. My teeth are pearly white, BUT, I now have major redness and recession of the gum around my upper front teeth. I've never seen such a thing, and notice what look like white blisters beginning to form. I'm applying some Vitamin E oil that the dentist gave me, and that seems to soothe the area. I'd suggest you prick a Vitamin E gel capsule and use that, instead of the Vitamin E cream. There were no warnings that any of this was going to be problematic, but it certainly is! I'll check in with you to find out how you are healing, and let you know the "rest of my story."
Still limited feeling (and no hair) on the burned portions of my upper lip.
And the metallic taste in my mouth is driving my crazy. It was so bad today, I felt like vomiting. I think my tongue was burned by the UV rays. I've tried mints, brushing my tongue, various foods and liquids, nothing works.
Hi Eric, I also suffered from a burnt upper lip after receiving the zoom treatment 4 days ago. It was awful and I iced it for a day and then used vaseline. Now on day 4 it is much better and I am now using a steroid cream from the doctor - it has healed instantly.
I also got a FULL refund from my dentist, who I think was in shock from the whole experience. He had never seen a patient with this kind of reaction before.
Regards,
Olivia
It's been 22 days since my mouth was burned, and I still have the persistent metallic taste in my mouth. I have gained weight because I've been eating to mask the bad taste. When I'm not eating, drinking, chewing gum, or sucking on mints, I feel like vomiting.
I'll be seeing a doctor tomorrow morning about it.
I went to the office of my primary care physician this morning regarding the burning/metallic taste in my mouth (following my 04/02/08 teeth whitening). The doctor confirmed that I have a burned mouth and damaged nerves on my upper lip. The doctor estimated that damaged nerves would regenerate in about six weeks and referred me to an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist for further evaluation. A prescription anesthetic mouthwash was also given.
I had the Zoom whitening on 6/1/07 and right after that I could not use any lip gloss because of the exposure to the UV ray lamp so close to my mouth. My bottom lip was damaged the most and I have been to two dermatogolists who said I had Cheilitis Sicca. I wish I knew how to heal the nerves in my lips to make that back to normal before I had the Zoom. Any ideas?
Did any of you have nerve damage from the Zoom on your lips? If so, is Vitamin E the best to use to heal the nerves?
I came here looking for answers. I had Zoom! done today on my lunch break. Right towards the end of it, the top of my bottom tooth had a very sharp pain that made me want to jump out of the seat. It went away, then came back, and did this over and over for the next 10 minutes. I told the dentist and he said some people get that, but it will go away and I will see him monday to get the trays. I went back to work and I kept getting the sharp pain on the top of two lowers front teeth now, so bad that my hand would fly up and grab my mouth. It is still happening. However, now the bottom of my top lip is forming a nice blister i am guessing? It is numb. When I asked questions I was told there are possible side effects that will go away in a day or two. I don't think so. I feel like my lips should have been covered up. Like someone else said, I saw a picture where the white paper piece was over the lips. The dentist just put some moisturizer or something on them and now I am regretting not pressuring him for more details. This hurts so bad! I hope there is no permanent nerve damage to my teeth. It is friday night and I just want to take asprin and go to bed. I am not looking forward to the morning at all.
Greetings Sarah,
I'm sorry to hear about your problem with Zoom teeth whitening. As I mentioned in my main blog post (http://www.erikjheels.com/?p=1029), I had my teeth whitening done 04/02/08. That's one month and one day ago.
On 04/24/08, my doctor prescribed "magic mouthwash" (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magic_mouthwash) to combat the persistent metallic taste in my mouth. I take it about twice per day. Once at night (so I can sleep) and once after breakfast. Lidocaine is one of the main ingredients, and it basically numbs my mouth for about 30 minutes. The rest of the day I rely on chewing gum and breath mints. If I have none of those, I feel like vomiting.
The nerve damage has not yet healed in my upper lip (e.g. no hair growth or feeling on the burned portions of my lip). It may never heal. I have an appointment with an ENT specialist later this month.
I have contacted some dental malpractice law firms. And switched the entire family (5 of us) to another dentist.
Please keep us posted of your progress.
Regards,
Erik
I just had Sapphire Whitening done at the Silver Lake Road Dental office in MN, 55421. I am not happy with the results. I received a relatively bad burn on my upper gum. I think I just downgraded my appearance for $700...lol. I look like a freak. I hope there is no permanent structural damage, I wish the dentist would of been paying closer attention to what he was doing so that it did not get as bad as it did. I feel pretty crummy :(
Yesterday, May 15th I had the Zoom Whitening procedure done and expereinced the numbness and burning in my lower lip about the 3rd treatment. They keep telling me it was just the instrument used to keep the mouth open that had stretched my lip. I couldn't enjoy the whiter teeth because my lip hurt so much. Last night by 10:00 it was swollen, this morning three times the size with many blisters. Today, I just showed up at the dentist office so they could see it and help. They are sorry but no help. In fact, they told me it would get worse before getting better. Great, it is not worth this pain. I am made at the manufacturers of Zoom and wonder if my Dentist knew the possbilities.....so disappointed!
I had 3 sessions of Zoom recently and the dentist decided to add a 4th session when the front teeth were resistant to whitening. They should have been because the same dentist filled vertical cracks in them with a darker shade of composite 2 years ago. It was the filling that resisted whitening. Anyway, I heard a few cracking sounds during the treatment and although I wasn't burned and the teeth have whitened, the color is inconsistent and I have many vertical cracks just below the surface on each tooth now. I'm also concerned about the exposure to ultraviolet light as my family is highly susceptible to melanoma with a father, grandfather, and aunt succumbing to this cancer.
I had my teeth done a week ago today,, during the procedure i complained about it hurting and it being hot,, she said she had never heard that before and then added more block somewhere but still hurt and was excruciating to go through,, I did tell her that it hurt but she just brushed it off and said well that is something that happens to some and not to some,, but this was ridiculous, and a week later my gums in front still hurt so much that I cannot use my electric tooth brush,, as a matter of a fact I could not even brush my teeth for 5 days,, I definately have uv damage to my gums and paid a handsome sum for this,, I would never recommend this or do it again,I think the body was made with certain mechanisms for self preservation and pain is one,, this cant be good for your body,, and my other concern is do they even know if it can cause cancer
It has been nearly two weeks since I had my teeth whitened and yes, it was Zoom. I had four 15-minute treatments. So for two hours straight I had that plastic thing in my mouth. Afterwards, my lips were swollen, sort of the Angelina Jolie look. That subsided after a few days. I also felt a few of the zinger pains. But the worst part has been the "burn" on the inside of my upper and lower lips, front only. It was so bad the first week, it hurt to talk and definitely to eat or drink because the slightest touch hurt bad. When sleeping, the teeth would sink into the raw area and make indentations and that hurt too. To look at it, it looked like a canker sore spread out. I thought maybe it was due to my lips being stretched, but now I realize it was burned. It is now twelve days later and the top is healed but the bottom is still raw, though improving. When I went in to the dentist's office one week later, I made sure the dentist saw what happened. He said they called the Zoom company who suggested using aloe OIL. I couldn't find it at any drugstore so that was no help. I should have taken photos, but didn't. The sad thing is, the Zoom company could care less, they aren't keeping track of the negative side effects like this and the dentist doesn't have to live with the pain, so who cares but the patient who suffers?
My wife requested our x-rays from our (now former) dentist today. The whole family is switching dentists due to my teeth whitening fiasco.
I just had the zoom done yesterday and I had lost my voice a little after and thought all I needed was some water - which I had at home - later that evening and this morning I cannot talk - I lost my voice. I am a Prof and need to give a lecture very important to my job in a few days and now am very stressed. I am worried if some formula (?) was ingested? During the last sitting - very uncomfortable - I did feel some saliva and leakage - if that makes any sense - now I am worried - if ingested can this cause harm? Has anyone else ever had a soar throat and lsot their voice? I have NEVER lost my voice before - even when sick I can still utter every word and sound.
okay - sorry I have more - the dental asst did my whitening - they should have a dentist do it since there are sooo many problems with zoom - also they shold sit there SIT there are see and ask if you are okay like every two mins...... no voice still - hurt to shallow now and inside of lower lip has two large urns - two big white spots - I want to sue these people.
Wow, it sounds like you guys had an awful experience. The irritation of the gums and sensitive teeth was pretty standard for me. However, all the other nasty stuff I didn't have to deal with. For the sensitive teeth, my Dentist gave me a Fluoride rinse and it did the trick.
I had the same awful experience 4/13/08. Lip swollen, burns on lower lip, lower gums and black around top two teeth. Couldn't brush or eat for days. After the procedure I mentioned to the dentist that bottom lip was swollen and was told probably due to stretching for so long. I knew different. Two days after the procedure I went back to show the dentist the destruction in my mouth and was told it had never happened to them before. After two weeks of enduring pain, I insisted that research be done to see why this could have happened and why I wasn't told about these possible side effects. The dentist got in touch with Zoom and yes, they knew of similar cases but any information was not forthcoming from them. My dentist refunded by money as they were not aware of these side effects either.
I had the zoom whitening done on 5/29. Prior to the treatment I visited this site and started to have some serious doubts. When I arrived at my appointment I told my dentist about my concerns - teeth pain (zings), swollen lips, blisters, etc.
She told me that the teeth sensitivity is possible - just like all whitening products - but she coated my teeth with a desensitizer before proceeding with the treatment.
She gave me a bell to ring in case I feel any discomfort. She did a lot of prep work - coating my lips with a moisturizer and using a ton of gauze. Between the 2nd and 3rd session she prepped me again.
Needless to say I didn't suffer any pain and am happy with the results. I will just say if you feel any tingling or burning in your lips or gums either try and get the attention of the person assisting or get that thing away from you.
Thank you for posting about your experience. I was researching the ZOOM Whitening today and looking for a dentist in my area that could give me a good price on it. After reading your comments I am sticking with my bleaching trays and gel and ditching the ZOOM concept completely. Thank you for saving me from possibly putting myself through some unwanted pain and permanent damage.
I had the Zoom Whitening done yesterday at 3 PM. Immediately after the process my top lip was swollen. The middle of the lip was freekishly huge! I also had bleeching in the inside of the same lip. The dental assistant brushed it off like it was no big deal, and gave me a tiny bit of E oil to put on it. I globbed the E on all last night, this AM it was worse, and there was also minor swelling to the bottom lip. I canceled all my appointments today. I went to the primary physician and got an oral steroid. I also have considered putting a steroid cream (that I have for hemoroids) on my lip. You know I am desperate! I am not a law suit type, but if there is a class action going against Zoom, let me know, I want in. When makes me mad is that there was no warning. This information should have been readily available by my dentist, before i had this proceedure done. I would have been able to make an educated decision, and if I still wanted to go forward, knowing this risk, I could have freed my schedule for a few days. I have important plans for this weekend, and i am not happy about looking like a botched botox job. I am taking pictures, as there is now a huge blister from the burn on the inside of my top lip, and the skin is begining to peel. Thank you, Erik, for writing your experience, it gave me a reference to identify with.
This AM I woke up with my upper & bottom lips stuck together! The burn spots were fused together - ouch. The swelling is down, probably because of my steroid pills/cream. The blister is white and scarry looking though. It hurts. Some peeling is begining. I remember the burning of my top lip durring the procedure, but the dental tech did not warn me, to warn her, if I felt anything. I also could not figure out how to let her know, as my mouth was full. I thought to myself, I wish I had a paper and pen. This sucks!
Well, I just returned from my night out, and apparently I had more skin peeled off my inside lip then I knew. I ordered a $6 hotdog from the concert and OMG the ketchup brought me to tears. I had to throw it away, as the pain was horrible. I went back to gobbing vitamin E gel on.
I did Zoom tooth whitening 2 days ago and my upper gum is burnt. It isn't painful but it's all black and looks scary !
I went back to my dentist yesterday to have it cheched and he said he never saw this kind of side effects before. He said it should get better in 2-3 days.
Honestly, I don't know what to believe. It really looks horrible and it's just on my 2 front gums... so I just keep my mouth shut not to let it show....
I've read a lot about Zoom and see that MANY people have problems with burnt gums, that is pathetic.
Does anyone know how long it takes to get back to normal ???
I'm really scared now.
My dentist said I have to apply Vitamine E gel but I don't think it can do much....
HELP !!!!
Oh, do you know where we can see pictures of burnt gums ?
I would like to see what it looks like for other people...
And I'm ready to post some of mine too....
My lips were fused together again this AM, when I awoke. Also it is difficult to drink or eat anything, as my top lip is so sensitive where the skin has peeled off! Hard to enjoy my teeth at all. Tommorrow I am contacting a medical malpractice lawyer to see if they will represent me against Zoom for negligence in "failure to warn". Has anyone tried this yet?
Hello,
Today my gums are much less swollen but still very dark (less black but still very red). I feel it's getting better but it isn't back to normal yet.
I'm going to see my dentist tomorrow for a check. He's quite concerned and he called me twice. I'll see if I can get my money back too... I'll insist on the fact that he should have told me that this kind of side effects are common !
Last year I did a tooth whitening with him but he didn't use Zoom at that time and I had no problem at all. So I'm quite unhappy he didn't tell me he would use a new method.
As for the colour of my teeth, it's better but I can't enjoy looking at them with my burnt gums...
What an experience, this is scary.
I went to see the dentist today for a check.
The gums are still very red but not black anylonger and not swollen. He says they'll get better and better and that it should take another 3-4 days to get back to normal...
I hope he's right !!!!!
I've told him about all the negative things I've read on Zoom and he said he's not aware of any problems.... I told him he should browse the internet and he'll find plenty of scary stories...
How can this company be the leader in tooth whitening ????
Anyway, I'm still reading as much as I can from the internet to get some more information on this horrible experience.
Greetings,
* Zoom Teeth Whitening Problems
http://www.erikjheels.com/?p=1029
I still have a metallic taste in my mouth. The ENT (otorhinolaryngologist) said that damaged nerves leading to the roof of the mouth can cause a metallic taste. He also confirmed that the white spots were burns.
I've been rationing the "magic mouthwash" (AKA "miracle mouthwash"), using it just once at night so I can sleep.
I am hopeful that my mouth will heal, that the hair follicles will return to my upper lip, and that the metallic taste will go away.
But it has been over two months and I am still dealing with the effects of this procedure.
Regards,
Erik
Greetings,
Send me your pictures and I will post them.
Regards,
Erik
Hi,
Today it is +10 days after I had Zoom.
My gum that was black, then red, then yellow has finally fallen off (!!!!) and I have new pink gum. It isn't painful and I'm so relieved it's getting better now.
My dentist tried to help me as much as he could and he was really concerned. He said he would raise my case to the Zoom people...
Anyway, I feel MUCH better and my gums are now healing and looking OK, finally !
The colour is disappointing though but I'm not ready to try another bleaching treatment as you can image !
June 18, 2008
After reading all the hype about this Zoom treatment (just yesterday) I proceeded with the treatment anyway. I told the Dentist my concerns. I was so scared after reading all the hype!
They explained the procedure and made me feel a little better. I had four sessions. The first two were just fine. After the 3rd one I felt a little heat on my lips and tip of my tongue. During the 4th and final treatment I felt my lips getting a little hot and one zinger. But NOTHING like I've been reading about. I told the Dentist I worried for NOTHING.
He told me the most common reason for discomfort to anything other than your teeth is improper preparation. The preparation took a good 20 minutes. They put a plastic insert into my mouth to hold my mouth open and move my lips out of the way, which provided comfort, put a special cream on my lips to prevent burns (maybe people should ask for more cream on the lips in between each session), put a cover over the outside of my mouth, put a material that hardened between the very tip of my gums and teeth to keep the Zoom gel off of anything other than my teeth and put lots of gauze in the inside of my mouth. They also gave me a bell in case I felt anything and wanted to take a break or stop the treatment. (This made me feel much better) If the preparation is not done correctly, I can see how people would suffer burns and such. My teeth look so wonderful I am so happy. I feel a few little zingers but not bad at all. The results are amazing. I also have a whitening gel and trays so I can use it at home. I think it is worth it. Don't believe the hype. Everyone is different!!! The cost for me was only $475.. Not bad. I am a smoker, drink lots of tea and have type 1 Diabetes. My family history for yellow teeth is really bad! My teeth look so beautiful!!! If you want to do it, do it!
I had teeth whitening yesterday. When I left my upper gums were completely white. I was panicked but told not to worry because they would turn pink again in about an hour. They were right...my gums did turn pink again...but not for long. I guess my teeth are sensitive becuase I they ached so bad I thought I was going to vomit. I had to take tons of pain medicine to keep myself sane. This morning I woke up with a swollen top lip and purple and black gums on the top. I hope this isnt permanent. Does anyone know how long it willl take to heal?
Good day all, i am shocked to read about all your horror stories. being an oral hygienist i can assure you that this has happened due to poor preparation on your dentists part. i've used the britesmile system on many patients and have had no complaints! our practice has just bought the new zoom system and there is clear warning that every precaution should be taken to avoid soft tissue damage. its a pity that dentists out there give the profession a bad name by taking short cuts!!!!!!!
Dear Everyone!
My fiance' and I had Zoom Advanced (the new one) done yesterday morning, and my fiance's top lip looked exactly like yours, but mine on the other hand was 10 times worse!!! My bottom & top lips were swollen at least 20 times bigger then normal. The swelling has just started to subside, but the inside is peeling and very raw. I have been taking Advil every 6 hours, and putting medicated lip balm on every 30 mins., as per my dentist, who called Zoom and they told him what to do. He also told me this is very common, but never bothered to tell us this before hand. I also was unable to go to work today. I have pictures to prove all of the above, but I don't know how to attach them to this email. I would be more then happy to do so, if you could tell me how.
Well, this is day 3 and the giant piece of skin that was burned, has just peeled off, leaving unbelieveably raw and painful skin. I can't eat anything hot, or smile at the moment! The swelling has finally gone completely down. I don't know how long this will take to heel, but it hurts like Hell!
Send me your pictures and I will post them on this page. Or post them on your own website and you can link to them from these comments. Just use:
<img src=www.example.com/example.jpg>
What's your email address?
I had the Zoom treatment 2 days ago. I have one or two teeth on the uppers that are hyper-sensitive. I am guessing that's what you refer to as "zingers" when you get a sharp pain occasionally. I am feeling some pain in the gums over the upper front teeth. I can relate to the tooth-brushing pain. I am using the follow-up trays. I do see a big difference in the color of my teeth though. I am hoping this sensitivity and pain goes away in a few days. Then I'll be happy with the whole process. My dentist seemed to do a good job of covering everything up and reapplying the sunscreen, etc. It's nice to have a forum like this - I was wondering what was going on until I read everyone else's experiences. Thanks.
Well count me in as a member of the burnt and swollen lip club. After icing it for 2 days and using vitamin E I am starting to look less like a duck. I had to call in to work today and make up a story as to why I couldn't go in because I was too embarassed to tell them it was due to a fat lip. The inside of my upper lip is still white and sensitive from the burns. I can't believe this happened and I NEVER would have done this if I'd known. Here is a pic of my fat lip about 6 hours after. It looked even worse than this immediatley following the procedure. I had a white circle on my lip too which faded right before the pic was taken.
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y78/Sweetmomma/IMG04092.jpg
I am a dental assistant who is Zoom certified by the company who makes Zoom whitening. Anyone who is thinking of having this treatment should ask their dentist if the assistant or whoever is doing the treatment is properly educated, trained and Zoom Certified. It is very important for the person doing the treatment to be aware of the proper placement and use of the protective coverings used before starting the treatment. It can be very tricky to place the face protector, gauze and liquid gel that hardens to protect the tissue surrounding the teeth. It MUST BE DONE PROPERLY!!! It takes practice, which the dentist I work for insisted on. He made me practice placing the safe barriers on him several times until he was sure I could do it before letting me do it to patients. He also continually checked in on the patient to make sure none of the barriers or gauze leaked. After each 15 minute application we check and adjust anything that might have shifted and replace wet gauze to keep our patients safe. The patient gets a bell to ring if they need anything and a pen and paper so they can communicate with us if need be. The dentist felt strongly that watching the training DVD and taking a multiple choice test to become certified wasnt good enough for his patients. He takes the extra time to ensure their safety by taking the risks very seriously. The only after effects we have seen with our patients have been sometimes severe tooth sensitivity which can last anywhere from a day to two weeks. We make the trays ahead of time before their zoom appointment so the patients can wear them home filled with the sensitivity relief gel. We also reccomend they use prescription strength fluoride sensitivity preventive toothpaste everyday two weeks prior to the procedure. I hope this helps anyone who might be thinking of doing Zoom. If done properly and with care the results can be wonderful.
Aaron Keller of NBC Action News in Kansas City, Missouri, used my photos (with my permission) as part of a story outlining the possible side effects of a botched teeth whitening job (teeth whitening video, teeth whitening story).
Wow! Just watched the video. One of these places reported wasthe one I was having problems with. Do you know the date this story was ran or when they were investigated?
I had the zoom treatment done this past Monday. It was uncomfortable sitting there for so long. However, I had no swelling , burning, or any of these problems I see mentioned. It seems that the Dentist or assistant doing the treatment, must be doing something wrong. I can't imagine that burned swollen lips goes along with the treatment.
I had Zoom! treatment yesterday and I did not encountered problems like what you have mentioned. My dentist is very professional and careful and the preparation took about 25 minutes before everything started. My lips and gums were protected carefully to minimize the UV rays. All I can say is that I am happy with the outcome but its a bit expensive. In our country, it costs around USD$1000 for the treatment.
hi everyone i had my teeth whitened yesterday with the zoom machine and since then i went up to a & e yesterday and spent the whole night there only to recieve hayfever tablets to help with swelling can anyone tell me what's the best thing as i really have to go back to work on friday, really woudn't recommend this treatment to my worst enemy!!! shawn
Greetings,
I signed no consent form and believe my dentist was negligent. FYI here is the definition of negligence:
Failure to exercise the degree of care considered reasonable under the circumstances, resulting in an unintended injury to another party.
http://education.yahoo.com/reference/dictionary/entry/negligence
Regards,
Erik
Erik:
Did you find a lawyer who will entertain suing over damage from Whitening? I didn't have burned gums but my teeth hurt so much they I had to go to the emergency room that night and I still (8 months later) have severe teeth pain.
Wow. I had this treatment done, and I will say dentist took extra care in preparation before doing the procedure. They covered my lips with cream before each 15 minute session, covered my chin, cheeks, and nose with sunscreen, and put that protective sheet around my mouth. it took her a while but she didn't want to continue until it was around. they stuffed my mouth with cotton, and put plenty of that gel on my gums. i had a bell to ring if i needed anything, and a pen + paper in case i had to communicate.
i have SUPER sensitive teeth (i cringe just thinking about someone putting their teeth in ice cream). during the process i felt 1, maybe 2 super-quick pains in my teeth. afterwards i had no swelling, no burns, no redness, nothing. my teeth were sensitive, but they gave me a gel to put on them to calm it down. after 36 hours i didn't have anymore sensitive issues with my teeth from the procedure, and my teeth are SOOO much whiter. another 7 hours and i can go back to eating food with dyes in it!!
i'm sorry to hear that all of you have had problems with your dentist's preparations!! hopefully people out there will read this and read the comments about a PROPER preparation, and ensure if they get this done that the process is adhered to.
I also had a bad burn on my bottom lip, and a little on the top. My botton lip. There is a hugh area that looks like a cankor sore. My gums between my two front teeth also got burned. I went back to the dentist and he gave me some steroids and pain pills to take and want to check me again in one week. I is going on 5 days and doesn't look any better. The pain wakes me up at night and I have to rinse out my mouth and put on some more vaseline. My teeth did that zinging bit also. It lasted a few days. I would also like to get in on this class action lawsuit. I haven't been able to enjoy my white teeth because of this pain I am going through.
Erik,
I'm impressed with your graciousness and integrity as you respond to those that are "blaming the vicitim". Thank you for telling your story. This has been helpful in educating me about appropriate questions to ask and what to research.
I had the Zoom Whitening done yesterday by a dentist that I've used for the past 8 years. He was very diligent in preparing my mouth to ensure that no skin would be affected by the UV rays. He bonded gauze along my gumline to ensure no gum damage. I read these posts the day I was getting Zoom and it scared me to death!
I went in there almost ready to cancel the treatment. I'm so glad I DIDN'T!
My teeth are noticably whiter. The zing pains, that seem to be common with any intense tooth whitener, were gone after 12 hours. The sensitivity, well, maybe I'm just lucky, but I don't really have any and I'm only 28 hours from leaving the dentist's office.
IF YOU ARE CONSIDERING ZOOM ... base your decision on your own research and not the experiences of people who went to a dentist who obviously didn't follow proper procedure. Make sure your dentist covers ALL exposed areas, including your lips, your gums, and the inside of your mouth.
IT'S NOT THE PRODUCT'S FAULT ... IT'S THE DENTIST TAKING SHORTCUTS THAT'S THE PROBLEM.
Enjoy your whiter teeth! I certainly am!
Erik,
I'm sorry for your suffering, Mikey is an AH. I'm scheduled for a Zoom treatment, but I'm going to cancel.
Thanks for the warning.
Richard
Greetings Richard,
Thanks for your note, and I think you're making the right decision by not getting the Zoom teeth whitening done.
I've received a lot of feedback about this story, and (as you've noticed), some people are more polite than others. Comments like yours keep me blogging, so thanks.
Interestingly, many of the (20-20 hindsight) "suggestions" that have been offered in the comments would have made no difference in my case. If I had signed a consent document, would it have made a difference? If I had done more research and concluded that the Zoom teeth whitening process was safe despite the risks, would it have made a difference? It would not have. I did a little research, went to a dentist that my family used for 8 years, had a family member (my wife) with a good experience, and still had a nightmare experience.
So what do I do now? I try to help others from making the same mistake that I made.
Regards,
Erik
Hayy... i have been considering getting the zoom treatment for a while now, but after reading this am in two minds on what to do now! I know a lot of people have posted info on how its gone wrong but has anyone had any good experience when using zoom? I have fairly white teeth but i think getting zoom done by a (proffesinal) dentist surly- apart from sensitivity- which i expect- not much can go wrong if all is follwed carefully. I feel for all of you that have had a bad experience with this treatment but surley it is still a very small perecentage of the population to where it has gone wrong- just like many other treatments, operirations ect.. ummmM am soo confused- i dont know what to do.. Thanks to everyone that has posted your experience on here- it does help!
:) oooh.. sorry about the spelling mistakes- never my strong point lol..
Someone plz reply hahahahahahahahaa
Thank you for taking the time to write this (with follow-ups!)...
My dentist offers new patients a choice between a free take-home whitening kit or $200 ZOOM whitening. He told me that results & sensitivity would be the same for both.
Now I'm glad I have not gone in for the ZOOM whitening yet, and will be asking him for the take-home kit. Thanks again.
Erik, thank you so much for sharing your experience! I had scheduled a Zoom appointment for September 24 (1.5 weeks before my wedding) and just cancelled it after reading this and other reviews online. I can't risk having any of these side effects on my wedding day.
I already gave the dentist my credit card number so I was afraid I wouldn't be able to cancel, but they are kindly sending me a refund.
Ok, after reading all this - I am not doing it anymore! I am actually scared! Seriously!!
Today - at 2pm! (10-06-08) a dental assistant is to perform this task on me ---- NO WAY!
I rather get a regular cleaning/polishing, and use the over the counter products!
Also - I would suggest the following to everyone...IT DOES WORK!
It heals, and strengthens your teeth, not to mention your bone, as it contains Natures own healing ingredients.
Go here... www.herbdoc.com
Tooth & Gum Formula
1 ounce / 30 ml. bottle...$20
Strengthens and tightens gums and reduces inflammation
Disinfects and kills germs and bacteria in your entire mouth
Freshens breath, relieves pain
Botanical Ingredients: White Oak Bark, Bayberry Root Bark,
Tea Tree Oil, Echinacea Angustifolia Root, Habanero Pepper
and Peppermint Oil.
If used regularly this formula will heal and strengthen the teeth by tightening the gums, reducing any inflammation and stopping any bleeding. This formula is anti-bacterial and anti-fungal and will destroy oral infections on contact.
Bayberry bark and Oak galls are two of the most powerful astringent herbs known. They contain tannins and the Galls of Oak may contain more tannic acid astringent than any other plant. Botanical astringents stop bleeding gums, reduce inflammation and bind and tighten tissue. That is why they have been used for centuries after a tooth was pulled to stop the bleeding and tighten up and close the hole. In many countries of the world, this treatment is still used in dentistry. In fact often a black tea bag is just bit on and held against the hole. Bayberry bark and Oak galls contain much more astringent power than just black tea. The Cayenne pepper in this formula also stops bleeding of the gums, but more importantly, it dramatically increases the gum and tooth blood circulation which encourages more rapid healing.
There is a tremendous amount of Cayenne extract in this formula but you will notice that it is not hot. That is because the Tea Tree oil somehow masks the hot flavor, but definitely not the action. Tea Tree oil is also a topical anti-fungal and anti-bacterial that has also been used in dentistry worldwide. In America, this wonderful healing oil was dropped for antibiotics. Considering that you are 4 times more likely to die from taking antibiotics because of anaphylactic shock than from an oral infection, and because the antiseptic power of Tea Tree oil is so well documented, to me this is a much safer route. Echinacea root is similar in action to Tea Tree oil as an oral antiseptic.
Clove oil has also been used since recorded medical history to relieve tooth and gum pain and that is the main reason I included it in this formulation.
Peppermint oil also stimulates oral circulation and covers up bad breath that is caused by tooth decay, oral infections and gum disease.
Please try it and give some feed back if this worked for you also.
Man I should work for this company since I am practically selling it :- )
Good luck with all of you, my prayers and sympathy go out to you all - I WILL NOT RECOMMEND ZOOM TO ANYONE in my family.
Thanks for all this info! I will also send your Blog out to everyone I know!!
Erik,
Thank you so much for sharing your story. After reading your experience (and all the others) I have decided that my slightly beige teeth aren't so bad afterall...
I hope your healing is complete (and others who have posted here as well)
I had this procedure done today and am so upset I did. My teeth are obviously very sensitive b/c I have been in excrutiating pain all day. My doctor gave me a prescription fluoride toothpaste (that isn't helping) but no sensitivity relief gel. I would never recommend this procedure. I feel like such an idiot for doing it.
I am so sorry to read about your bad experiences with the whitening procedures. As a dentist, I am most troubled by these side effects. My dental assistant has done well over 70 direct whitening procedures and we have never encountered your experiences.....until recently. I was shocked at the swollen lip and cancer sores.....I've never seen it before. From now on, all my patients will be warned about these possibilities. Us dentists don't mind telling you all the things that may go wrong with this procedure....we just haven't seen these things and didn't know it could get so bad. Thank you for posting this stuff on the web. It's a lesson for all of us. Unfortunately healthcare is not, and never will be an exacting science. Unforeseen things can happen. And I am humble to see for the first time ever, in my own ofiice, my own quality preparation, these bad effects from whitening. Several dental team members have posted that you got this because of "poor" technique....yeah, right. You just wait until it happens to you when you think your technique was flawless, like I did.
Holy $#!&!!! I made an appointment for ZOOM yesterday at my dentist office, and I am going to call and cancel RIGHT NOW. Thank you all for sharing your painful and scary stories; you have saved someone else from going through the same thing.
Found this site from googling 'black gums zoom' to see if what's going on in my mouth is normal. Had the treatment yesterday, woke up this morning with bleeding gums which have since turned black above my two front teeth. It looks atrocious. To anyone who's read this far in the thread, do not get the Zoom treatment. It is absolutely not worth it.
Hey everybody.
Wow, I had a Zoom done yesterday and I had NO sensitivity and my teeth look fantastic. My Dr. was really professional and explained exactly all the different sensitivity's that could happen. Also he said that if I feel that my lip, tongue, cheeks or gums were prickling, that I should inform him immediately, as then he might of missed covering a area that you can not see with the naked eye and that he will just recover it and off we go.
I felt a dull ache on my teeth for a while, which is according to him, very normal as he explained my teeth is going through fluid movement.
I really recommend the Zoom Whitening procedure, as I'm very happy and sorry to hear of so many that did not go through the same experience. If you do go for the Zoom procedure, make sure that your Dr. has receive the appropriete training and that if you feel any burn, numbness or tingling sensasion on your lips etc. that you stop them to cover you more....
I wish I would have read this before I did zoom.
I checked out your pics and I have a huge sore on my lower lip from burning my lips. My husband did zoom a while back and had NO issues. I have a horrible sore on my lip which is getting better (now a week after zoom) however, my nerves in my left side of my lower teeth are in a lot of pain and sensitive. I have deep pockets in my gums and I am thinking some bleach got in there. I am seeing my dentist today as a follow-up.
I hope the pain stops soon b/c it is very painful....
are you in a lawsuit with zoom b/c of all of the issues you had?
Shantel-How are your gums? I have the same symptoms as you, I am wondering if it will get better. I did the Zoom two days ago.
I had Zoom done yesterday and when I came out I noticed a tiny part of my gum above my tooth was white and flaking off, so I gave it a little prod and it fell off. I thought that was the end of it. As the night progressed I noticed more and more of my upper gum going white and when I brushed my teeth the whiteness literally dropped off leaving an angry red open wound. This morning my upper gum is black and it's spreading from what started as just above one tooth, to four of my front teeth. It has been getting more and more painful and it is spreading to behind my teeth as well.
I am terrified that my smile is ruined forever.
Can anyone help me on what will happen? I'm goin back to the dentist tomorrow and hope they can reassure me and REFUND me!!
Erik & the rest of you, I am sorry for what you are going through. On top of the physical pain you expected to come home looking hot and feeling better about yourself and that did not happen. I must ask one question, please, don't be angry. The process sounds like it uses intense UV light. What made any of you think that was a good idea?
Have any of you had permanant damage?
Has any of you made contact with Zoom? Are they willing to discuss the problem? Do they want to make the process safer? Even if the number of injured parties is low it would seem like that is too many.
I had Zoom done this morning and I am in horrible pain from sensitive teeth. It's a constant deep ache along with the zingers that will not stop, I've taken 4 Loritab and 4 Advil and nothing is working. I called my dentist and they checked with Zoom who recommended I wear my bleaching trays and take plenty of Motrin. She also said that I could put a little bit of the fluoride sensitive toothpaste in the trays for a few minutes and rinse with warm water. They told me I could come back in tomorrow and they would give me some relief gel but if I hurt like this tomorrow I won't be driving anywhere since the pain won't allow me to concentrate well enough to make the one hour drive.
My dentist prepared my mouth very well and there was a little white area around my gum's afterwords but due to the pain in my teeth I am not concentrating on my gum's at the moment. No swollen lips or anything though.
The dentist gave me the consent forms with all of the warnings possible and I wanted it done so badly I signed them and had it done. I regret it at the moment, but hopefully I will feel better tomorrow. I'm serious when I say the pain is bad, I've been in tears and felt like vomiting most of the day.
I'll come back tomorrow and post the progress since it appears I'll be missing work.
I had Zoom done yesterday and have just woken up in pain so bad that I had a nightmare about my front teeth falling out. My bottom lip is swollen to twice its size and I could cry that both my lip and teeth hurt so bad...and this is with a significant amount of codeine taken before bed. My teeth were whitened beautifully but right now I can say I'd much rather have my dingy slightly yellow teeth than this...I feel horrible right now.
I should mention that during the three sessions that were done yestereday, I had those shooting pains. They would last anywhere from 2 to 10 seconds. People are calling them zingers here...I just call them shooting pain. Now, it's just constant throbbing pain. RIght after the treatment, the zingers would hit me and I'd have to grab hold of something and squeeze to be able to bear the pain...and I have a high pain threshhold. I felt like I was on the verge of vomiting each 'zinger'. Now I feel on the verge of tears, it's a constant horrid pain in my teeth and my bottom lip is swollen out to twice its size.
Erik,
Wow. I am so sorry for your horrible experience, but also very happy you posted this here. All the pretty before and after pictures on the teeth whitening websites say nothing of these sorts of problems, just all hush hush. Because of this, I had no IDEA that anything remotely bad could come from having this done, and I've been looking into it and probably would have had this done had I not found your site. When I searched for "Zoom teeth whitening" on google.com; your website is about the 3rd listing down. Thats great because people can see this and get informed. God knows the corporations would never make it known. They just came out with a new scientific study that says talking on cell phones excessively causes brain tumors, too; but that will be a big cover up too I'm sure.
Anyway, I hope you do with a settlement, you deserve it. Even if you don't, I hope knowing you saved me and alot of other people who've read your posts from getting the Zoom treatments and experiencing what you have helps ease your troubles.
Also - anyone out there have any idea if BriteSmile has similar effects? It seems it would have to, as it, too, involves a UV laser and gel, etc.
Ruby
Michigan
Update day 2. I think that Zoom's recommendation of the Motrin was a good one because it eventually got my pain under control. Also the Loritab I was taking finally began to kick in. They still hurt but NOTHING like yesterday. If I had to compare the pain I had from this to having the hysterectomy I had a few years back, this hurt WORSE than the hysterectomy. I have to say that if my teeth ever get yellow again, they will remain yellow because I will never take a chance on having that kind of pain again. My gum's are sore but seem to be okay.
They sure are white though.
I hope everyone that hurts begins feeling better because I can sure relate to the pain.
Vicki
Day 2.
I went to the dentist yesterday and the staff was shocked at my swollen lip. The entire staff was terribly comforting and kind. Without even asking, they've reimbursed me for the procedure, gave me a prescription and took notes about my reaction....they say they want to make sure this never happens to another of their patients. I don't think I could have gotten better aftercare.
So far I feel pretty good. My lip is very dry and still swollen, but not as much. My teeth feel normal, not dry or painful or anything, just normal...it may be that the pain meds I took last night are still in my system.
As for the actual whitening...they really did get whiter. I was at a 2 before and now am one step from the brightest shade, I think it's a .5 but I'm not sure about the numbering system.
No zingers since yesterday afternoon...oh, my gums did get a little burned, but not like my lip did. I think the gums will heal quickly.
I had Zoom treatment yesterday and I already regret it. Its not worth the pain and discomfort. I've never suffered with sensitive teeth before. I feel like I'm constantly grinding my teeth on foil.
To anyone sensible, doing their research..stick to the home kit.
One week on, my gum is healing. My dentist didn't refund me but did apologise. I've now moved on to the next thing to complain about. Already the bleach is coming off my teeth, my previous colour is clearly visible, and it's coming off in what I can only describe as stripes. My bottom teeth seem to have totally changed back to there previous colour completely. Needless to say I am NOT happy. Having paid £550 (over $1000) I am not impressed.
I want to complain directly to Zoom as well as my dentist, as I feel I should not be experiencing this amount of issues!
Has anyone else had the bleach come off so quickly? The dentist said 3yr life to me...
Sorry to hear about all the problems people have had. It has to have been poor "isolation" during the prep procedure. I just had Zoom this morning and was a little amused at how cautious my dentist was about prepping my lips and mouth. She spent a lot of time on it. Now I see why. I had no discomfort at all during or afterwards.
Wow, I found this web site in time think God! I was going to have this done as a treat to myself.But after reading all of your problems forget this! Plus I would have put $400 into it at a place I wasn't to sure of.So thank you guys so much for your help.But I am so sorry that all of these problems happened to you guys.I smell law-case in the making!
What a shame that people have had such problems with Zoom whitening. We do Zoom in the dental office I work in. I cannot stress enough the importance of proper barrier technique before the procedure is done. The majority of problems listed here could have been avoided had the technician done his/her job! Please ask questions. Have the technician explain what they will be doing, the side effects and he the post op instructions. Zoom when done correctly works great. Make sure your tech has experience and you have asked all the right questions.
Hi, well I just had the Zoom Advanced Whitening done today at a nice place called Sparkles ran by Dr Taylor in Birmingham, Michigan. I was so scared after reading your blogs, but I was very impressed with the Zoom. They protected my mouth, gums and lips with gels and gauze. I watched television the entire time, for 4 15 minute sessions in a very comfortable chair. No zingers, no pain, no blisters, its been great. I was given a Motrin 800mg on the way out. I wish everyone had such a wonderful experience. I think you just need to look for a reputable place. My Zoom was only $300 and my teeth are so white I can't stop smiling!!
I had Zoom done yesterday and I felt the burning and numbness during the second 15 minute interval. I complained to the dentist and for the third round she put the lip/mouth cover on. When all was done and they gave me a mirror..I WAS SHOCKED..I had these HUGE uneven lips. I was in such shock I just kept asking if this is normal. It seems that the light was not even centered correctly on my teeth. This morning I woke up with four huge water blisters on my inner top lip and about seven smaller on the bottom. I can't eat or drink. DDS keeps saying this is very rare and to use topical steroids. Now they are turning white and raw. IS THERE NO RESEARCH on this and different types of skin??? WHY IS IT NOT MANDATORY that the DDS has to use the lip guard?? Do we all have a predispositon to oral cancer now. What next? IS there a class action??
Hello my name is ayamel, i have this problem in my lower inside lip. It is not a blister and i dont know what it is, i have had that for over a year and i though i'd go away with time, like a blister. its like hair inside my lip but i can see it its a in a layer of my inside lip but i can see through it. and when i accidently bite it , it then starts looking red, meaning it bleeds inside and sometimes it pops..it is really disgusting HELP!!!!! WHAT IS THIS THING?
Greetings Kim,
Thanks for your thoughtful comment. Unfortunately, the world is not so simple as your comment makes it out to be. Those who have had a bad experience with Zoom teeth whitening are understandably upset, those who have not may not be. But most people can at least see both sides of the story. I've keep this forum open as a resource for those considering this dangerous procedure. The fact that some escape unscathed does not undo the damage for those who did not.
Regards,
Erik
Hi there,
My name is Karen I live in England. I won a competition in a magazine in which the prize was for zoom whitening worth £500.00 was given. I had the treatment done on Wednedsay last week. At the time of the treatment the laser dropped down and started frying my gums it was painful the dentist had gone to chat up his secretary and the nurse was taking no notice of me or checking. I could not stand the proceedure as it was uncomfortable. Since then I have had extreme headache my gums have swollen up and are red and angry my teeth are very sensitive ans now one tooth looks slightly cracked. I am on pain killers and whole heartledly regret this treatment. I would not recommend it to my worst enemy.
Wow. Sorry that happened to you Erik. :( Has it gotten better? Also sorry for all the others who posted about their injuries. This is a really horrible device!
I had Zoom done today. They did four 15 minute sessions, normally it is three but they had some left over bleach. I have been going to this same dentist for 16 years. I was not told there were any bad side effects at all, I wasn't even told what kind of light was being used. I was given something to bang on if I needed anything, but I wasn't told to bang on it for any particular reason.
I should have questions and I should have researched it before hand, but I have had experience with normal whitening gel before and figured this was the same but somehow faster.
During the process I had no pain or anything, other than being uncomfortable with my mouth being open so long. They used all sorts of gauze, a plastic thing to hold my lips back, and salve on my lips. Other than that I have no idea what they were doing in my mouth since I couldn't see it, but it took a while.
When they were done they said they were surprised that I didn't complain that they had bleached my gums slightly in one tiny spot. I told them I never felt pain, so how was I supposed to know? It is very tiny and only a little white. I was given very nice custom trays and I wore them home filled with sensitivity cream.
I googled for Zoom because I am getting the "zingers", one about every 10 minutes. A few of them have been extremely painful. After reading this I got paranoid and inspected my mouth. My gums don't seem to have any problems except for the tiny spot. I found a very small lump on my bottom lip. It is so small I would not have noticed it without looking for it, even though I had looked at my teeth in the mirror many times. I am very, very sensitive to sunburns, so I guess I was lucky enough to be prepped well.
My teeth are very white, but still blotchy due to plaque stains from when I was a kid. Cost of the procedure was $650 USD. While it was fast, gives instant results, and I was not really injured in the process, I do NOT recommend doing it to anyone. It isn't worth the chance something could happen, it isn't worth the exposure to UV rays. I wish I had not done it. I will be contacting my dentist to make it clear how dangerous it is and to express my concern that I was not given any sort of warning about the dangers.
WOW! I wish I would have read this site before going to get zoom bleaching. I like many of you didn't do any research before having the procedure done and have also used home kits like crest whitestrips and had no problems and good results.
I was in severe pain with "zingers" during the last 15 mins of the procedure and have been in almost constant pain for the past 7 hours. I'm taking painkillers but I'm going to be at the max dose soon unfortunatley and I still have to make it through the night.
My Dentist did not tell me of any complications, although I didn't ask. Regardless, I'm upset he didn't tell me I could be burned or in severe pain. Only after the procedure did he mention my teeth may be "sensitive" not in severe pain.
What's even worse is that my teeth are only slightly whiter.
I would not reccomend this to anyone!!!!!
Thank-you for keeping this site open for comments, I'm glad (well not really) that I'm not the only one :)
I was just calling around today about the Zoom whitening treatment and did not schedule an appointment, thank goodness! It would deifinitely not be worth the risk of what most of the people on here have suffered. Thanks to Erik who started this blog in hopes of protecting another person from getting burns, sores and swollen lips, etc. I am heading to the dentist next week to get some good "old fashioned" whitening trays in hopes of having whiter teeth in a couple weeks.
I had Zoom Whitening twice in 17 months. I think I am addicted to teeth whitening. I tried 3 different products and get good results but I always wanted to get the maximum result. So I tried the zoom whitening. The Dentist told me that my teeth is whiter than their samples but still I wanted to do it. My first Zoom was not a great experienced. I have a very sensitive teeth and after 3 applications of gel my sensitivity got worsen. My mouth was full of saliva and felt like I was choking. The lady who did my Zoom told me that the saliva can cause more sensitivity so I asked her to use the suction. After the procedure, I had this horrible pain of sensitivity and I couldn't eat or drink just lukewarm water. The pain lasted for 2 days. Besides the sensitivity, my lips were dry and it took 5-7 days to get them back to normal. After a week, I am back to normal and my teeth are sparkly white :-). Every other week, I use the 35% gel whitening at home for touch up. Then last month, I had another zoom whitening, although I don't need it but my insurance company covered 50% so I took advantage. My 2nd zoom was not bad. The lady only applied the gel 3 times and I checked my mouth (I had a mirror in my hand til we're done) to make sure there is no tissue/skin that is exposed. I don't want to get burn (learned from the previous experienced). And I had a suction in my hand to suck out the saliva. So far the result was good and I had the sensitivity that only lasted for about 4 hours but it wasn't too bad. I will do it again…..
If you're planning to do the zoom, do some research and make sure the person who's doing the zoom knows what he/she's doing. You don't wanna be a guinea pig. Ask for someone who has the experienced. I hope all of you now are ok and enjoyed your white sparkly teeth!
My husband had a ZOOM treatment today- at our family dentist. My husband is in agony. (He is drinking vodka out of a straw at the moment to ease the pain). Tylenol and Advil aren't touching it. He is complaining about the zingers and the intense pain in his teeth. His gums looked horrible to me, but he says the tooth pain overshadows the gum swelling. If he would have known, he would NEVER had done it. He had 5 -15 minute treatment.
Hi Erik,
I had the Zoom treatment on the afternoon of Wednesday November 20th. The gum area above my
front teeth is badly burned. I'm happy with the color of my teeth, just as I was with the Brite Smile
procedure I received ten years ago, which now that I think of it, was performed by my Dentist at the
time. I did not have any tissue damage but I do remember my teeth hurting for quite a while
afterwards. I did not receive the whitening trays or the sensitivity gel either. My teeth were a lot less
sensitive with the Zoom procedure.
There were a couple of things I noticed during the Zoom procedure that seemed unsettling. For one,
the extreme heat that I felt on the upper part of my mouth and secondly the awkwardness of the
lamp itself, it seemed unstable and hard to position, neither of which alarmed me. In retrospect (and
of course the aftermath of the damaging affects) the extensive information attained in reading your
blog would have caused me to express more concern during the procedure itself.
I left the office Wednesday afternoon with the trays on and was told to use the bleach for the next
two evenings. Needless to say, I did not use the bleach last night because my gums hurt, I took some
tylenol 3 and because I had visited your page yesterday I went and got some vitamin E and orajel. My
teeth are not sensitive today but my gums are a mess. I am eating with the sides of my mouth, or
choosing soft foods. I am drinking with a straw and I look like I have diseased gums. I have a job
interview tomorrow, (yes Saturday). I'm bummed.
I called my dentist who actually gave me a "break" to begin with on the Zoom procedure (half price)
and told him of my intentions to foward his office your blog. I LOVE my dentist and I know he will
make the appropriate decisions based on public opinion, even if it means further training for his staff.
Thanks Erik for sharing your experience it has been a tremendous help to my emotional state. It
gladdens me to see that some people have had good results, I probably would have too if I had been
aware of the precautions, I guess since I had no issues with the Brite Smile I didn't expect to have
any problems with the Zoom.
I took some pictures and would like to share them.
For now I'm off to eat some yogurt (I had a sweet potatoe for lunch)!
Sincerely,
~Karen
I just had the Zoom done yesterday and I am in great shape. Aside from a slight sensitivity I feel great, only with whiter teeth. My Dentist took alot of time to prepare me for the procdure and i truly beleive it's not the ZOOM but the person administering it that make the difference.
Did you drink coffee the next day?
i just also had zoom done about 2 hrs ago i was kind of disappointed thought they would be much whiter but they are nice.. The first 25 mins was a breeze and also the second, wasnt till the third i had some discomfort with my lower teeth in the last 5 mins thought i was goin to jump out of my chair, i do have the zinging i guess as u would say, hopefully it does subside soon..
all this sound so painful. if it was me i would sue, but hey what do i know. i will never risk this after seeing these pictures and hearing these horor storys. thanks for the heads up ill be talking to someone about zoom.
Thanks so much for all your comments. I had an appt set to do this and so happy now that I canceled. My dentist would not do it because she thought the UV lamp could be bad for people who are sensitive to Melanoma. Since I've had Melanoma before, I decided it wasn't worth it to me. I had called the ZOOM reps beforehand and asked what the ingredients were in the gel and no one could tell me. That was enough for me. I'm using 35% Sapphire gels and have been having no problems. Best of luck to all who have so many problems with it.
Erik, thanks for having this blog open. I was burned badly from a ZOOM threatment (in Germany) last week. It looks a bit better now, but it has been more than a week of instant pain, bad sleep and problems with eating.
I can only say, it will take a while before anyone can see my smile, pain and burned lips/gums/tissue has stopped me from smiling!
Hello All, thank you for posting! I was going to have the Zoom treatment on Monday, Dec 8th, but after hearing about all of the problems and pain you all have gone through I am going to cancel, I guess I will stick with the crest whitestrips from the dentist. I wish you all good luck and that you all heal inside and out quickly.
Hello Erik,Anyone,
I had the Zoom whitening procedure done yesterday and my upper lip is very swollen. Can you pls tell me what you did to decrease the swelling.
Much Thanks
Good morning. I had the whitening procedure yesterday 12.12.2008. After 2 hours sitting in the chair uncomfortably, both upper and lower lips were swollen...mostly the upper lips...The doctor thought it was due to the plastic bracket that she used to keep my mouth open. I did a Solucortef injection which help in allergy cases. It helped me a lot but this morning I woke up and still have a small blister on the centre of my upper lip. Can you please advise me how to treat it? Is vitamin gel or vitamine capsule a good solution? What about sea salt water to rinse my mouth? Any other suggestions? How long do you think the blister will remain? Is there a possibility that it never goes away?
I am worried...My doctor was not aware of this side effect....
In anticipation of your kind response...
C
What kind of steroid cream has anyone use that helped? Thanks
THANKYOU for putting up this sight. I got my Zoom! whitening done today at 1pm and I am in AGONY with tooth pain. I can't talk, eat or even open my mouth. I have not yet seen my teeth, can you believe it! I just can't bring myself to open my mouth. I have a high pain threshold, having been a boxer in a past life, but right now I honestly feel like I could die. (sounds dramatic, but that is how tooth pain feels, as most of you know).
Just being able to read this site has been helpful, so that I am aware that others go through similar experiences. Somewhat comforting I suppose.
NEver again!
LIv
Had zoom yesterday.
I read these posts while I have the zoom procedure. My blackberry was handy. I had the procedure done at around 4 30pm and its 7 30 in the morning and I don't feel any pain but. A sensitive annoying cringe(so to say)
I had zoom done yesterday and aside from tooth sensitivity, I'm pretty happy with the results. When you look up close, you can see small lines in my teeth that are whiter than the majority of the tooth, but I'm convinced these are cracks I've had since I broke a tooth when I was little. My dentist assured me that if I was not a good candidate for whitening, she would not have done it. The technician took extra precaution around my teeth due to my spaces between my teeth and applied lots of the blue goop around the area of my crown so it would be protected from the bleach as well. I'm sure the problems people have been experiencing here are from the dentist / technician not taking proper care of the area around the teeth and / or performing whitening procedures on candidates who should be turned away just to turn a profit. Yes, this can be a dangerous procedure if the proper precautions are not taken, but if you go to a reputable place, do your research, and ask good questions, and insist upon more protection if you feel the current one is not adequate, you should be able to avoid most of these problems.
I just had my teeth whitened a few hours ago, and I am so glad that I did. I agree with a lot of the people who have responded that it really depends on who does the procedure. My dentist made me sign a waiver and the hygenist, after I voiced my concerns, took a few minutes to explain the entire process. She even gave me a mirror and let me check my progress between sessions. There was no burning or discomfort whatsoever, minus the minor discomfort from the plastic thing that held my lips back. I haven't even had any "zingers" or sensitivity yet.
My teeth weren't dark to start with, but after the whitening they were the whitest shade possible to achieve with Zoom, so I'm really happy--especially since it was free! It really just depends on how experienced your dentist is--and I don't think a lot of these horror stories are the norm.
Just had Zoom whitening yesterday...
Felt buring sensation on tip and top of tongue - also felt burning at the back of my throat - they gave me water a few times - helped the pain a little - but when I got out of the chair I was instantly hoarse - I had lost my voice almost completely.
Tech at the dentist's office said she had never heard of it - so I wondered if I was coming down with a cold - almost 24 hours later and I have NO other coldlike symptoms.
Make sure that the person doing the treatment protects ALL soft tissue - including the tongue and the throat!
I don't know how long this severe hoarseness will last - but I can't communicate!
Thank you for this website. I was researching Zoom as I was considering the procedure. Having read this, I have reconsidered and will just use my Whitestrips at home. I am sorry for all your anguish and do appreciate you recounting your experience.
I had Zoom done yesterday and had a very bad experience. My lips were burning during the procedure and when I told the hygienist she just spread some more cream on. It burned quite a bit, but she waked out and never came back until the 15 min. was up. When I was through my lips hurt so badly I rinsed for a good 10 minutes, and that didn't help. I didn't even care to look at my teeth because I was in such pain! My upper lip had formed a blister and was swollen. the dentist just dismissed it and told me I was probably sensitive to sunlight. This morning when I woke up, after a really awful sleep, my lips were double the size! I'm in so much pain from the burns and blisters. The teeth sensitivity has gone way down, but I would prefer that over what my mouth looks like today! I went in to see my Dr. about the burns and he prescribes lidocane gel to numb it. I have to go to work and be around people for the next five days, which is how long my doctor said it would take for the swelling to go down. Needless to say I am very upset. I used the Bright Smile treatment a few years ago with great results and no issues at all. I had originally made an apt. for Bright Smile, but changed it when my dentist said theirs included trays for the same price, and assured me it was the same procedure. I tried to do research on the procedures before hand, and if I had come across this site I never would have used Zoom.
I'm just hoping to not look like a duck for the next few days!
I had the Zoom whitening done and it was a BIG mistake. During the treatment I felt like my lips were swollen together. I wondered how the light could be doing any good if my lips were touching.
Forgot to say that the tech had trouble putting in the protection "thing". Had to give up and use an "old" one. She could not fit it in my mouth. Tried a medium which was still too big for me then when to the "old" one. Said we don';t have any small ones. So to start my lips felt stretched to pieces.
Immediately, after getting home, I realized that my upper and lower lips were blistered. When I finally got to the dentist to see if he could do anything he told me they were canker sores. NO. I've had a few over my 65+ years and these were 1 inch or more. White, red and I could not tell if puss.
Dentist did nothing. Three months later I find myself constantly aware of puffiness and often biting the lips when eating. Definately not the way my mouth used to be.
And the whitening is not even obvious. Probably because the light was not getting to the teeth!!!
Crappy job, of course no quilt on the part of tech or dentist. What a mistake.
It's been two days now, and my lips are still swollen. It looks like I had a bad lip injection done. The inside of my mouth is now raw, and the skin is falling off. The only thing I can drink is water, everything burns I put in my mouth and it hurts to talk. I was never given a consent form which I just found online. If I had read that I would have known the dentist did not take all the steps necessary to ensure I wasn't burned. I still have not heard from my dentist, but expect a full refund! This is not worth the pain! Stick to the trays, they may take a little longer, but at least you wont be in pain for days!
Thank you for leaving the blog and responses up. I was to have Zoom next week and will now use at-home whitening. The people who say you are into "drama" are wrong. You were given improper medical treatment. Until "Zoom" can resolve these issues and become a more transparent company, they will not get my business (nor should any of us tolerate their sketchiness).
Does anyone have any information regarding long term effects from Zoom whitening? I had Zoom done about 2 years ago and my gums were badly burned above my top 4 front teeth. The damage was enough to require a gum transplant. I was whitening my teeth because I was having a veneer replaced on one of my top front teeth and having a veneer put on the other top front tooth so they would match. My dentist did not make me pay for the Zoom whitening and he would cover the cost of the gum transplant. He gave me the option of putting veneers on the 4 top front teeth instead of the gum transplant. My teeth were kind of "short" before so I thought this would be a great option and he was going to cover the cost of the 2 teeth that I had not originally planned putting veneers on (looking back on it now, I should have had him pay for all 4 of them). Now I am wondering if I made the wrong choice. That's not the problem though. About a year and a half later I ended up having to have root canals done to my top two front teeth - I had the root canals done about 3 months apart. I just find it all a little strange that the infected canals were on the two teeth that had the most gum damage. Has anyone heard of anything like this?
Has anyone filed a law suit against either their dentist or Zoom? I am planning on going after damages. Haven't eaten in days because of the pain. Have no ides how long this will take to heal. The inside of my lips are totally raw...Worth more than a refund of my money for sure!
I had Zoom Whitening on 1/23/09. I talked with my dentist the week before the treatment and told him of my concern of the sensitivity and possible blisters that I had heard about from a couple of other people. He told me of the possibility of teeth sensitivity, but he didn't know of anyone w/ blisters, but that everyone reacted differently. I was given Rx toothpaste prior to the treatment. The technician took a good deal of time prepping me w/ sunscreen, as well as gauze, and the rubber gel that was put around my gums. During the 1st 15 minute session, I began to experience pain in my teeth, not my gums or lips. The technician would remove the light and reapply after the pain subsided. However, due to continued teeth pain, I decided to not go any further, and only received less than two 15 minute sessions. With the precautions taken, I still had a bad outcome - that evening, I noticed a dark purple blister type area above my two front teeth; over the next couple of days, the color got even darker and larger, and I noticed a clear drainage w/ blood streaks when I rubbed one of the teeth w/ a Q-Tip. It has been exactly six days since I had the procedure. Since then, the purple, turned to white spots w/ sloughing that resulted in extremely painful sore spots on my upper gums. I cannot brush around the two upper teeth d/t pain of the gums, which I have noticed are beginning to get sore behind the teeth as well. Around one of the teeth it appears the gum may have pus in it or the color has turned gray. Also, it has progressed to what is a long, very red / raw line across my gums over three of my front teeth. Now, not only does it hurt to brush around my front teeth, even the toothpaste burns and stings when it makes contact w/ the front and/or back of my gums. I had called my dentist, and he had me to come to his office. He appeared to be amazed at my gums which were in the phase of purple / white at that time. He said he just didn't know if it was from a type of "sun burn," chemical burn, etc... he "just didn't know." He did Rx me Magic Mouthwash which I use a few times a day, especially immediately after brushing. This is a great Rx for pain of the gums. My teeth are also sensitive and I usually only drink tepid water d/t not being able to tolerate hot / cold. I expected the sensitivity w/ this procedure, for a few days, but did not realize it would continue. I did not expect the problem w/ my gums however. I believe the manufacturers of Zoom and the dental association needs to do more research and provide additional warning to consumers on risks related to more than "a little sensitivity." I'm still waiting on what tomorrow will bring - improvement, or just another development. My dentist did say it could take two weeks or six weeks to heal. Again, he stated "I just don't know." My concern is that if the dentist doesn't know, how are consumers to know?
I just had Zoom whitening on 1/29/09. My husband had the procedure done a few months ago with absolutely no side-effects. I proceeded blindly. The release form was a bit unnerving, but I signed it. My technician has been doing this whitening for 2 years and took her time and proceeded very carefully with all the prep, including sunscreen on my lips. She explained everything she was doing in the process. In retrospect the one thing that is not properly protected is the upper and lower lip. Sunscreen and the white cloth lip protector do not filter the UV rays from the lamp--obviously.
I left with the burned upper lip and told them so, but was told it was just stretched. Those of us, and it would seem that there are many, know the difference between stretched and BURNED! I had a similar reaction--numb, swollen, and within 24 hours the huge burn blister on the under side of my upper lip. Now peeling off and leaving the raw unbelievably painful mouth tissue. It is unsettling for me read how long the recovery period is for all this mouth damage as I am getting married a week from today! Silly me. I thought it would be nice to have white teeth for my wedding. I hope I can smile by my wedding day!
Someone mentioned using aloe vera oil. I've never seen the oil, but know that aloe is used as a burn treatment in hospitals. I know it will sting like crazy though. Also, CoQ10 is known to promote healthy gum/mouth tissue. You could prick a capsule with a pin and apply it to the lips/gums.
My biggest concern is UV damage to the skin and the potential for mouth cancer down the road. I am very concerned about this and think the Zoom people are taking all these negative side effects to the lamp way too lightly. How did this lamp even gain approval? I'm perplexed. I think we all need to step back and look carefully at the cosmetic field of medicine. How important is it that our teeth are white? Five, ten years or more down the road how many of us are going to be dealing with painful and devastating mouth cancers. I think this UV light should be removed from the marketplace. I received careful preparation and still was burned.
I wish all of us well on our road to healing.
I haven't had Zoom or any other whitening procedures done but used Orajel Tooth Desensitizer and experienced upper, lower and full mouth burns and ulcers, including under my tongue. My lips swelled as you have all described with sores on the inside and outside corners of my mouth. I couldn't eat for a week and 1/2 and could only drink through a straw (protien drinks). Only cold drinks as anything warm or hot burned. Is it possible that the tooth desensitizer that they use prior to whitening is causing or adding to the burn. One of the ingredients in the desensitizer is a mucous membrane and skin caustic irritant and one is a fungicide which can kill all the good bateria in your mouth causing candida (thrush), white tongue coating, bad breath and yes metalic taste in your mouth. Secondary infection is also possible as my glands were swollen and I was running a low grade fever. I usually precheck all ingredients of what I put in my mouth or on my skin but this product was on sale and I had a coupon (see how greed can trumph better judgement). Ask your dentists and doctors about the desensitizer connection.
Hi All,
Sorry to hear you all suffered the same as i have. I had exactly the same burn on the inside of the upper lip, which caused it to swell up really badly. This does only last for a couple of days (in my case anyway). I then got a long white blister on the burnt area which was pretty painful, but salt water and mouth gel number the pain. After about a week the blister has gone and all pain is also gone. I am slightly concerened about any medium to long term effects of this though as after the blister went i noticed that half of the upper gum is a now a dark red colour and this was not where the blister or burn was, this was properly covered by the gel. I'm just wondering if the heat transferred down into the lower part of the gum and whether anyone else has had this effect. This is painless but i swear my gums dont look as healthy as they did before the treatment.
I wrote back in Oct about my bad experience. I wanted to update a little. After 4 months, my bottom teeth still don't feel normal to me. If I don't take an Advil during the day my teeth end up feeling like someone is squeezing them with pliers. I can't imagine what is really going on inside my teeth...and I'm sure I'd be better off not knowing. I seem to have chronically dry lips. Lip balm helps, but they always seem dry. Could be the winter weather...or it could be they were burned so bad from the bleach that they're still trying to recover.
I WILL NEVER USE ZOOM or any other tooth bleaching product, EVER. It is absolutely not worth it.
Wow. I have an appointment for Zoom whitening next week and will call tomorrow to cancel it. Thank you Eric and others for posting your stories to warn people like me. I am truly sorry you have experienced so much pain. I will keep using at-home methods, which have worked fine for me. Silly vanity and my 40th birthday tempted me to do the Zoom route --- which thanks to your blog I will not do!!
#Zoom #Teeth #Whitening Problems... http://is.gd/eIPm
I just had one zoom cycle this am. My top lip inside is burned. The dentist said it is a "chemical" burn. But when the uv light was on it I told the tech I felt like my lip was being sunburned. And she put more gel on it. The dentist said she never had this happen and stopped the procedure. I think I will not finish it when I heal. I never got a consent that had these risks on it. If I had I may not have undergone this procedure. WOW. A BURN! At the dentist???
I had the Zoom procedure done on 2/12/09. I am 60 years old and can tolerate pain. Not only did I feel like I had a toothache in every tooth in my mouth...it lasted two days. I could not do anything but lay around the house. I would have never done the Zoom procedure if I had know that my lips would blister, and swell up or of the intense sensitivity. good grief!!
Hi Erik. I'm a producer with NBC4 in Washington, D.C. I'm working on a story about UV teeth Whitening problems. I saw your blog, pics and how many people posted. I'm looking to interview a person who had problems with this type of teeth whitening. Any chance, you might have been in touch with someone in the D.C. area (D.C., Md or Va), who had an issue? I appreciate any help!!
Thanks!! Lauren (lauren.dunn@nbcuni.com)
Per my prior comment on 1/29/09 - this is an update: In approximately five days, it will have been a month since my procedure. The red streak is finally gone; however, I have ended up having to use Viscous Xylocaine to numb my gums prior to brushing due to the pain that even the toothpaste itself would cause, not to mention the toothbrush. I also had to take 10 days of antibiotics d/t continued redness around my two front teeth (especially w/ one). The grey area finally turned to red - Thank God! because I was beginning to think my gum was necrotic (tissue death) to that area. The antibiotics seemed to help, but I still have a little redness around one tooth, and the gum seems to have receeded over that tooth. This is a tooth that I had fractured several years ago, and ended up having to have a post put in. I pray now, that I don't have to have it redone. I guess with everything that I have been through, to me everything looks a lot better, although my teeth were fairly white before the procedure, and really look no different now. I think having to use the Magic Mouthwash (orange / peach color), and having to leave it on w/o rinsing, turned my teeth back to the color they were before. However, when my co-workers ask how my gums are doing, and I show them, they usually make a face, and say something isn't right. Now, I've gone from a fairly white smile prior to the procedure to a "something isn't right" smile. Gosh, what a lot of money for that compliment!!!
I had same trouble. On 10/02/08. And right after that I could not use any lip gloss because of the exposure to the UV ray lamp so close to my mouth.
See also this video:
Nothing To Smile About
http://www.nbcwashington.com/health/resources/Nothing_To_Smile_About_Washington_DC.html
[...] blog post on teeth whitening problems is nearly one year old and remains the most popular article on my blog. As I said in the story, I [...]
I had ZOOM whitening done on 30 March '09 and did experience the sensitive teeth pangs for the whole night after. I had been warned that I would get those but I thought only during the treatment. I had 3 15 minutes blasts, the first one was fine, the second a little uncomfortable and the third was torture - the practitioner left the room and I had no bell or any other way to call her. At one stage in the first part of the treatment, I felt something start to burn my lower lip, I managed to alert her to that and she wiped it and put some more cream on. At no stage was I warned of possible burning in an around my mouth. At the end of the procedure my lip was quite swollen but I just assumed it would go down quickly, the dentist said nothing about it. Later last night it was getting much worse and there was blistering on both lips. This is when I found your blog and thank goodness you have put it up. I went to the doctor first thing this morning, by which time my lips looked like they had been stuck in a bath drain. I immediately started plastering a steroid/antibiotic cream on my lips and have done regularly today. My doctor also gave me anti histamine tablets in case there had been some allergic reaction to the gel. The swelling reduced substantially over a few hours and my lips look nearly normal again, though still a little blistered. I have outlined all of this in an email to my dentist, asking for a refund but have not heard back as yet.
Well, add me to the list. I didn't find this website until AFTER the Zoom procedure, which resulted in 3 days of sore lips and (now) 2 weeks of burned gums. With no forewarning, no informed consent -- NOTHING that suggested there might be any potential side effects. The gums above my front teeth turned black and blistered, and although I have been applying steroid cream for over 1-1/2 weeks, they are still very sore. The gums are slowly healing, but raw enough still that I can't brush my front teeth. It looks like the gums are going to have receded as well. I am apalled, and had I known this was even possible, I likely would never have undergone the procedure. My teeth were okay as they were.
Hello , I checked out this webpage after my sister sent this to me via email concerning if she sould still have this done for my wedding. I'm a Dental assistant, and We do zoom at our office. I have never heard of any of this. You should be signing a bleaching ZOOM consent before treatment listing any side affects. Yes there are risks in everything we do, but did your dentist apply the sun screen that comes with this kit?? you are to apply it on lips, gums, nose ect. If the gum protectant isnt applied properly by your dentist (that all gums are covered) I can see how it can inflame your gums, and thats your dentist fault, not zoom!! yes sensitivity is normal after ANY bleaching. At my office we have out patients use a toothpaste with extra fluoride a week prior to the zoom visit. We use a toothpaste called "fluridex". Just because your Dr. does not follow the instructions properly doesn't mean the actual ZOOM is a bad product!! The ADA
( American Dental Ass.) wouldnt have appoved this product if it was bad. The ADA has strict criteria it must follow to be approved. My sister (MY maid of honor) and I (bride) are having it done 3 days done before my wedding, and i'm not worried one bit!!!
Thank you for the continuity of your posts Erik. I was looking for a local DDS who does the ZOOM whitening when I found this blog. Many years ago I graduated with a degree in Dental Assisting. There are many things that some DDS will ask Assistants to do that they have no business doing. X-rays etc. I have been contemplating having my teeth done with this stuff, and asked my DDS about it. She told me that she does not do it, but hat I should check out "Zoom" as she heard that it worked well. I will be sending this website to her to read.
I received a chemical burn from the acrylic glue used to secure a cap on my molar. It was the most terrible pain. Nothing could be done...just had to ride it out. My chart is now notated...no acrylic glue. I can not imagine what my gums and flesh would look like if I went ahead with this procedure.
I'll stick to my 53 year old "tinged" teeth and keep using the baking soda!
Thank you for the time you put into this to share your experience. As for those who think you complain too much... "walk a mile in my shoes" . Some ignorance can't be helped. Best of luck. Sue
Greetings Susan,
Thanks for your kind words. It's comments like your that keep me going.
Regards,
Erik
Erin: No organization or body is infallible and it may turn out that the American Dental Association made a mistake. You should be open to that possibility.
I for one would not allow my mouth to be exposed to bleach and high intensity light unless there was a damn good reason.
These testimonials point to Zoom tooth whitening being unsafe and inadvisable. I sympathise with the individuals who are now suffering as a result and hope they make a full recovery.
My dentist here in Houston offers free ZOOM 2 whitening to new patients so I took advantage. The hygienist put all kinds of protective sunscreen creams, numbing creams and loading my face with gauze then had me where a special pair of glasses. I have sensitive teeth so I was worried that I would feel pain.
I have read about others having hour long sessions but I only has two fifteen minute sessions, During the procedure I felt not even a twinge of pain or discomfort at all. My teeth are only 2 shades lighter but they look beautiful.
I think it really matters how well your are protected with creams and gauzes. The girl who prepped me spent 10-15 minutes with all the creams and protective layers of gauze.
I would highly recommend Floss dental clinic Houston. If you live else where ask what procedures they take to protect your lips, gums and eyes. I feel very lucky that I did not experienced the horrors that others have reported.
Erik,
Sorry for your awful experience, & everyone else's. I will be canceling my appointment for ZOOM and using a different method.
Many thanks to all of you and God bless.
I have a Zoom Appointment on May 5 (the next day I have a spanish final test)
Im getting really worried. The cost is $380 and was really happy to get $200 discount on such a powerful whitening procedure but after reading every post on here and on Rebecca Bloods Blog I am scared to death of this, Ive had drysocket after wisdom teeth extraction and I have had a rhinoplasty and those procedures hurt like hell and the descriptions of zoom sound as bad and even worse.
Im thinking I will cancel. Im more afraid of Gum Burns (which the dental assisants warned me about) than I am afraid of teeth sensitivity.
I went to the office just for info on teeth whitening and they automatically assumed that I wanted Zoom. I never even said the word "zoom"
I just wanted trays done and for tiny chips on my 2 lower front teeth worked on.
If this Zoom stuff is so dangerous, why are dentist insisting on this? Are they just crazy?
Dear Erik,
I too have severe burns inside my upper lip from Zoom. It has been 2 weeks and I'm still not healed. I, like you did not do any research on a procedure that seemed to be so safe. I was not advised of any risks nor was a given a release to sign. After the prep, the assistant then took over leaving me alone during each session. I should have known better for I have been a medical assistant for 33 years. If you find an attorney that is willing to take on a class action suit with the makers of Zoom, I'm in!
Here's hoping we don't have future mouth issues from this disaster.
Best regards,
Linda Mc
I had the Zoom procedure done this morning.... I wish I had found this website before I had done it. I was led to believe that it was safe, and that there were no side effects other than a slight bit of sensitivity....BOY IS THAT FALSE!!! I had 4-15 minute sessions and during the 2nd session I asked the hygenist who was performing the procedure if I was suppose to feel like my lips were baking in an oven and she laughed it off and said it was completely normal-applied a little more E-oil and set me up for the 3rd session, turned on the machine, and walked out of the room... literally 2 minutes in I felt my first zinger pain up one of my bottom teeth... by the time the session was over and she came back the zingers were so bad I had tears in my eyes.... I told her about the pain and she said that "it is almost over and it will be worth it when you are done" and " the pain only last for a few minutes after the treatment because we follow it up with flouride treatments", stuck the light back on me and walked out again... the 4th session my teeth were hurting all over, I had pushed the light away from me and my lips were trembling from the pain... she came back in and started taking all of the gauze and stuff off of my mouth and pulling back the protective coating off my gums...using the suction-which almost killed me because my teeth were so sensitive I literally wanted to pass out! After 3 flouride gel treatments and 2 flouride tray treatments, the dentist finally came in (I was in tears by this point), and prescribed be glorified advil and the hygenist told him she was going to numb me up to give me some relief.... I took 6 shots to my upper gums and 6 to my lower... by the time I walked out, I didn't even look at my teeth-you couldn't see them my lips were too swollen! It is now almost 12 hours since the procedure... I have had nothing to eat and only luke warm water to drink, my lips are swollen, and my "zingers" are continuous and I am miserable.... this is the biggest mistake I have ever made and I will NEVER recommend this to anyone! I just hope the pain goes away soon....anyone reading this who is thinking of having this procedure done, please reconsider, it is NOT worth it!
You have to be careful with over the counter teeth whiteners also.
I used aqua fresh white trays and on the last day of treatments (7 day supply), I accidentally fell asleep with it in my mouth and woke up 4 hours later with a nasty chemical burn on the underside of my top lip which became hugely swollen.
At the end of day 2, the swelling is better but the burn is so painful that i can hardly eat or drink. The inside of my lip looks just like the ones in the photos at the page.
So, if you're going to use an over the counter whitener, follow the directions exactly and don't use it while laying down in bed at the end of a long day. lol.
and thanks for the helpful suggestions on helping to heal the burned mouth tissue.
Let me start by saying I'm a dentist and found this site while trying to prove to my staff that the ZOOM type lights do not have any better long term results than take home bleaching. The ZOOM lights are really marketing hype. Many studies have proven that regular take home bleaching and the use of lights with stronger formulations have the same results. The lights are a way for your dentist to double or triple charge for the same results. As far as saftey, it should be safe depending on the preparation. Nobody should get burnt or experience the problems that some of the posters have gotten. Ultimately they are your teeth, do your research before trying something new, and don't be afraid to question your dental provider.
I wnted to get Zoom! done to my teeth at my dentists office. They have a room all set up. But everytimei asked my dentist about getting it, he kept telling me that they don't do it anymore. After several times and getting the same answer, I asked why not? He proceeded to tell me that there were too many problems associated with Zoom, and told me to just use trays with bleach, and in 5 days my teeth would be just as white!! If that doesn't speak volumes for Zoom, I don't know what does??!!!!
I had the Zoom process done about 2 weeks ago...PAINFUL! I had pain medication for another injury and took it for 2 days! My experience is that my teeth actually turned yellowish> Not sure why and my dentist doesn't understand either. So, he gave me a flouride Bleaching Gel (for sensitivity puposes) and tols me to bleach every dau for 2 weeks and come back...
My teeth were rough after the zoom process nad lost their glisten! Man, I am so bummed. Not sure how I am going to get my smile back. My teeth were nice to begin with and I thought this ZOOM process would just bgrighten them up....so far no luck. Anyone else exoereince this yelowing, rough, side effect..HELP? (No I don't smoke, drink red wines, cola's etc... I do drink a little coffe every day, but am using a straw...) ANy suggestions . am I the only one who has yellowiah teeth after the process?
Thanks for all the great info everyone, this is so eye-opening. I'm surprised the FDA or the ADA allow this kind of procedure to be done legally with so many bad side effects. I was going to get it done but from reading your experiences I think i'll look at other whitening alternatives.
i just got zoom done this afternoon and i wish i had found this page BEFORE i did it. i was only aware of possible side effects being tingling, but not lip burning and blisters. during the middle to end of the second 15 minute session, the bottoms of my top and top of my lower lip began to feel hot. the assistant put some cream or something on it before but that didnt really help after awhile. i made it through to 3.5 sessions when i got a sharp zing of pain in my lower left tooth that made me jump to the side away from the light and call out for the assistant. dont let them send you through a 4th session. it's not necessary. im really worried now that i could get cancer. my lips are starting to swell. they dont really hurt, kinda numb. :(
if you're gonna whiten, just do the trays. i'll keep you all posted.
im gonna call the dental office right now.
Okay, I posted on Apirl 21 that I was going to cancel but I just rescheduled for May 13. I had it done in the morning and for the past 3 weeks I have used flouride in trays daily to help prevent Zingers. The assistant told me she was good and I trusted her.
My Gum Barrier kept leaking every session but it was very minor and patched up everytime. Not much gel got to my gums and it tingled but did not burn. IM SOOO HAPPY CAUSE I HAVE NO BURNS. That was my main concern.
The zings started in the second 15 min session. The 3rd session the light did not turn on for 3 minutes so I decided to do a 4th session to make up for that.
The Zingers hurt in the 2, 3, 4 sessions but I have a high tolerance for pain. I also had random Zings for 2-3 hours after the procedure. I then took a hour long nap and felt better afterwords, especially after 2 Ibuprofens. 8 hours after the procedure the Zings are gone but now my teeth feel sensitive constantly but nowhere near as painful as zingers.
So overall the Zingers hurt and teeth are sensitive but no burns since I asked alot of questions prior to procedure and felt confident in the dental office.
My suggestion is research the dental office and read online to hear patient testimonies to know what to expect.
I just had my Zoom! teeth whitening done yesterday and I have to say it is alot more painful then it appears. I was aware that I may suffort slight sensitivity like biting into an icecream. I had to stop them during my 3rd 15 minute session as the 'zingers' were absolutely excrusiating. The pain was quite severe for a few hours, and was still present that night. This morning I woke up and all the sensitivity was gone- however another side effect had appeared. The gum covering my middle front tooth and the tooth to its left and now a purplish colour and look horrendous. I cant smile because it looks grouse, not the pretty smile I want when I have events on this weekend!!!! So I called the hygenist who performed the whitening and she was suggesting to me that the colour of my gums was due to an underlying gum problem I might suffer from. HAHAHA. I will be going in to show them the results on monday. I went to my regular dentist (not the whitening one) for a filling today and she was shocked and said they must have left it on too long. Very disapointed.
Great, I wish that I had found this site before I went. I did it today, and part of my gum turned gray!! And the tooth looks like it has crack or line going up where the gray gums are! I called the dentist, and she laughed and said that it will go back to red soon. Can anyone tell me why it went gray, when will it go away, and will those 2 teeth fall out or have future gum problems? UGH!!!
I was considering ZOOM for before my wedding. I am SO glad I read this site first!
I did the Zoom yesterday - my mom actually is a dental hygenist at that office (and I'm a new patient there). They slightly discouraged me from having the Zoom done, just because people can often times achieve similar results with trays at a fraction of the cost (it just takes longer to achieve...) and that the Zoom can be intense. Well, I'm a pretty impatient person (and I wouldn't remember to religiously do the trays), and my mom offered to pay for it as a birthday gift so I said yes. My dental office was very upfront about sensitivity issues, I did sign a consent, and the hygenist went very slowly - it probably took her an hour to mask off my mouth! But, she's never had anyone have a problem. She literally told me, "If I get this on your gums, they will slough off and burn." Before beginning, she had another hygenist check her work and make sure I was completely masked off. They gave me a bell to ring and she came to check on my every 5 min. throughout the 3 20-min sessions. I never experienced sensitivity during the procedure, except that my lips were burning like if I had applied Carmex to them. I told her about it, and she brought me a fan! Afterwards she applied flouride and Vitamin E oil to my lips. Once I got in the car, the zings started. They totally caught me off guard! My mom had warned me to take Ibuprofen beforehand, but I didn't do it. Now I realize why! Fortunately I had some prescription painkillers from a car accident so I took those. I was very sensitive to everything afterwards - even air. My bottom lip was also swollen, but not Erik-size. However, this morning when I woke up I felt fine. My teeth are definitely whiter, but still splotchy.
All this writing, but only two points: 1. My dentist was very upfront about the procedure, including pain and cost/benefit ratio. 2. My hygenist had performed Zoom over 100 times. 3. If I was a more diligent, patient person, I would opt for trays even though I had great luck with Zoom - it just ends up being the same result with not as much pain risk in my opinion - it just takes longer. If I had paid the $600 myself, I would have definitely wished I stuck to trays.
I'm sorry that so many folks have burns on their gums.
I just had Zoom whitening done this morning. After reading many of these posts and others like them I was very nervous about doing it. I went to my dentist and talked with the dental assistant that would be preforming the procedure. She told me of their policy of "no pink showing". She did talk to me about potential sensitivity. I decided to go ahead with it. My dentist had done it herself (with this assistant doing the procedure). I felt that they were competent to do the job.
I must say, she was very detail oriented. The prep time took about 45 minutes. I had lots of protection on my lips. Lots of gauze over my lips and in my mouth. Then she proceeded with the white substance that covered all of my exposed gums. She even allowed me to check her work with a mirror. I had 4 fifteen minute sessions. She never left the room and was constantly asking if I was ok or had any pain. It wasn't until the 4th session with about 10 minutes left that I had my first zinger. I was almost asleep when it jolted me out of my semi-sleep state. I continued on with the rest of the session. I had 3 more zingers within an hour of the procedure. Nothing major. It is now 11pm, 13 hours after the procedure and I feel great. No problem brushing my teeth and no pain or sensitivity. I ABSOLUTELY love the results!
I think that most people that are having issues with this are choosing dental practices who are less than qualified. Or rather, not very detail oriented. I would suggest you do your research before choosing where you wish to have Zoom done. Make sure they have the "no pink showing" policy. Check their work. Tell them you do not want them to leave the room. Be assertive!
I had a procedure done with a company called Narcissus Smile. I walked out of the facility with whiter teeth and minor lip swelling. I got home, went to bed and woke up the next morning with my lips swollen to 2-3 times the normal size, burnt gums, lips and serious inflammation on the floor of my mouth. I'm now into day three and I'm trying to avoid talking because I feel it only stunts the healing process more. I don't even know what I can eat that will not irritate it. I found this blog looking for remedies to see if this was normal and I must admit I've found some relief reading the posts and knowing that this will go away. Might be a couple of weeks, but it will pass.
The dentists do not warn you about things of this nature. You get the fluffy "you may experience some minor tooth pain" but not the "your mouth may become burnt during this procedure." You have to rely on patients to come out and tell the truth. I'm thankful for this blog, even if it's after my procedure.
Also it's no helpful to post the "you should've done your research" responses that some are doing. You can research and pre-prepare all you want, but when you place your hands in those of a "professional" you expect them to know what they are doing. Just keep in mind: those of you who have had success stories could very well be on the receiving end of a failure story. So there's no need to demean someone about their side effects and not doing their research.
Erik and all,
Thank you so much for posting your stories. I was considering it and have changed my mind. Cosmetic procedures are so often not worth the risk. I will be happy with my slightly yellow teeth and grateful that they are healthy and painfree.
Erik,
I wished that I read your story before seeing my dentist about teeth whitening. I went with the bleach trays and after two treatments, I woke up yesterday morning with my top lip extremely swollen. My bottom lip is fine, but my top lip looks like I just came out of the boxing ring. I was instructed to wear the trays over night, as the bleaching agent quits working after two hours. After I saw you pictures, I knew that what had happened to you is happening to me right now. One question I was wondering about, is when did the swelling go down? I didn't see a comment about that in your messages. Right now, that is all I am dealing with, but I am sure that more side effects await me down the road. Thanks!
Greetings Adam,
It took a couple of days for the swelling to subside, a couple of weeks for the blisters to peel and heal, and a couple of months for the metallic taste to go away. The hair follicles never healed and I still occasionally have the taste disorder. It now looks like I have permanently chapped lips.
Regards,
Erik
First of all, thank you for sharing your realistic comments on this site. I had my Zoom whitening done yesterday (July 8) at 1 p.m. through about 3:30 p.m., and it was a scary process...almost like a FEAR FACTOR challenge. Lip burning, teeth sensitivity, and LIP SWELLING are truthful side effects of ZOOM Whitening procedure. I trusted my dentist for about 8 years, but I have to discredit my dentist for not even giving me a list of thorough possible side effects other than just teeth sensitivity. I called in sick today, because my upper lip is almost double the size of my lower lip. I am not sure how long the swollen lip will subside, but it is a terrible experience. Please think twice before "Zooming" your teeth or you'll get a ZOOMED lip:)
I think it depends on how good is your dentist.
My dentist put sunscreen on my lips and surrounding area. Also they used cloth all around my mouth to protect skin. My teeth were very well "isolated" from gums, lips and inside mouth.
I had four 15-minutes sessions and my teeth look great! A little discomfort in my neck (it got a bit stiff after more than one hour of sittin in one position) and increased teeth sensitivity, but not too bad. No burns, no problems!
Will do it again after a couple of years!
Zoom damaged the teeth enamel. My teeth are dull and rough.
I had the zoom process done wednesday afternoon. Although the hygenist that did the procedure was very careful and took all of the precautions, I still felt a burning on my upper lip. When I asked about it in the first 15 minute session she put some more vasoline stuff on it. I went through all four treatments and yet didnt really feel anything. When it was through and the device and gauze were removed, they gave me the mirror. My teeth lightened up by two shades, but my top lip looked and felt swollen. She said it was from all of the stretching. It is friday afternoon and although the swelling is down somewhat, it has gone from little white blisters to peeling, now revealing raw skin that burns like #@$$ when I eat or drink. My top lip is still numb. IF I HAD ANY CLUE OR HAD BEEN FORTUNATE ENOUGH TO READ THIS BLOG BEFORE HAND THERE IS NO WAY I WOULD HAVE DONE THIS PROCEDURE. I am more concerned about future skin cancer in that spot than anything. Any more information on the liklihood of that developing?
I had my teeth whitened yesterday around 11 a.m. I had (3) 15 minute session and my lips are about the size of a hot dog!! I have taken benadryl, tylenol, ibuprofen and rubbed neosporin on them.. nothing works!!! Help! I need suggestions!! How long will my lips look like this? I can't leave the house or even really talk. This is not normal!!
I had ZOOM whitening done to my teeth on June 29th, 2009. I too, had extemely burnt lips and swollen. It looked as though I had botox injections! The swelling has went down however, my lips seem to super dry all the time and need constant chapstick.
This past weekend I went golfing. Prior to going out I used Zinc Oxide with SPF 45 and continualy applied chapstick with SPF 20. Unfortunatly my lips still got burt and swollen again.
I am wondering if you experience the same thing when going outside for an extended amount of time? Will this cycle end?
I went to the dentist to show and explain to him what had happened. He claims he's NEVER seen anything like this and that because my nerve endings were damaged and are healing, my recovery will be slow. How slow? He's not sure :(
Erick, You should add to your side-effects list "enamel damage". I had the procedure done few weeks ago. The enamel was damaged. My teeth lost the krystal-lilke layer and are not shiny any more. I am under fluoride treatment to see if it helps.
Sounds like a lot of you had the Zoom treatment done by inexperienced professionals looking to make a "buck" or two off you!
I am a dental professional and have been using Zoom for 4 years.
I have never had a client experience anything like your comments.
It is very important to protect all of the oral cavity , lips, gingival tissue etc...If at any time the client feels discomfort I immediately stop the procedure and re barrier especially the lips..as saliva can make the face barrier wet and it is then ineffective for coverage.
Sounds like they got the peroxide on your lips causing them to blister.
Before you have Zoom whitening done check out how long the professional has been using the product and they have the training needed to proform this procedure. Also check out :Zoom whitening to see how it is done and make sure they follow the guidelines.
Best of luck to all
I had my zoom whitening done yesterday. I did my research and expected pain and sensitivity, but I hadn't read, and the side effects list the assistant who did the procedure didn't have, about lip swelling. I look like someone popped me in the mouth with a golf ball, with an obvious semicircle on my upper lip where the skin was not protected. The assistant did not give me any sunscreen as I have read about here, and only put gauze on the lower lip. I had 10SPF lip sunscreen on, like I apply every day, but it didn't really help.
I really hope this goes down quickly, I'm getting married six weeks from tomorrow.
3 days later, the swelling of the lips is down significantly, but it's formed a hard painful crust that has been flaking off as I eat and talk. The teeth feel fine, but the gums are still to sensitive to brush properly. I've been using crest pro-healh mouthwash as my primary means of oral hygene.
It's hard to appreceate my whiter smile when it hurts to smile.
Zoom was the most TERRIBLE experience of my life. Now I know what the prisoners in Guantanamo Bay feel like. That procedure was absolute torture from beginning to finish. My teeth are so sensitive right now, I can't even think, relax, or eat and drink. The worst part about it is that it didn't even work. Some of my teeth have bonding on them and they do not get bleached. So now I look waaay worst then I did before. Zoom is absolutey awefull. VERY VERY PAINFULL!!!!! From 1-10, the pain is 11.
Thank you to all i have bonding and was scheduled next month I'm canceling!
Sorry to hear about everyone's experience with this Zoom procedure i surely will not be trying it. I did however use trays and have had great success, my good friend is a dentist for some 20 years now and following his procedure did the trick. I would strongly suggest using Bravo gel the others i tried did almost nothing, and i did 15min in the morning and 15min at night for about 10 days and i get compliments continously that my teeth look like movie star teeth. LOL Thought i would pass on my experience.
I want my money back. I had Zoom done. I never had any pain, swelling, or sensitvities just that the increased whiteness only lasted about 3 days. I might as well not have had it done at all. What a waste of money!
I won a ZOOM treatment at a bridal show a couple years ago and had it done for free before work one day. While my side effects weren't as dramatic as some on here, I did have some significant pain during the procedure and after, and some significant lip swelling and pain, particularly to my upper lip. The same sunburn type issue as everyone else. My dentist was very professional and took pains to do things correctly but this still happened. It was very difficult to work that day--if I wasn't on a deadline I would have gone home. I didn't complain because it was free (and my side effects subsided after 2 days, and the results were great) but I agree they should warn of the potential risks and side effects. None were ever mentioned to me.
Oh, and I was told I could only eat white or clear foods and liquids for two days. That was tough to pull off. i ate a lot of milk and rice.
Erik,
Thanks for the site. Add me to the list of people who wish I would have read your blog before getting the procedure done.
I got the Zoom done yesterday morning, and I look like a trigger fish. My upper lip was swollen as soon as the treatment was over - it looked just like your first lip picture. The assistant said it was due to the stretching from the plastic mouthguard. When the dentist walked in (the dentist was NEVER present for any part of the procedure), the first thing she said was "Why is his lip swollen?". She had never seen that before. She assumed that I had some sort of allergic reaction to the sunscreen they put on my lip, and suggested I get some benadryl asap.
This morning, my lip is more swollen and numb. The inside of my lower lip has what feel like water blisters on them.
I'm going back to the dentist this morning, and am going to my physician to get their opinion and hopefully some steroid cream.
I have no pain in my teeth (luckily). I'm actually very scared, nervous, and so angry at myself for indulging myself in a quick fix. Most of my work is teaching and other forms of face time with students and colleagues. This week is going to be ridiculous. While I'll be good at humorously disarming the ridiculousness of the situation and still able to perform, the whiteness of the teeth is going to be lost due to the fat lip.
Thanks for this blog-it really helps.
Went back to the dentist today and got a full refund. The dentist is very sorry and worried, and admitted that it's indeed a burn instead of allergies. There are blisters evident. The lip was more swollen this morning. The dentist talked to a physician friend to see how to treat the burn, and was prescribed Methylprednisolone tablets (steroid tablets), and Triamcinolone Acetonide (Oral Dental Paste for the lip and gum burns).
As of tonight, the swelling has gone down noticeably, but there is a lot of pain in the lower gums, especially when chewing.
The dentist is confident that there is no nerve damage, as she describes it as a "severe sunburn". She did caution that the skin will slough off, and it will be tender.
The dentist called the Zoom company and spoke to someone who said a few things:
1. They have seen cases like this, and most of them appeared in the first version of Zoom. I had the procedure (I suppose) under Zoom 2.0 - something like the new revision. Their goal in the new revision was to reduce the chances of burns like this happening again. I get the idea that it was a new lamp.
2. They said that burns can happen if the gauze gets wet, in the case of over-salivating. Since the gauze goes all the way down inside the mouth, the gauze can act like a wick, and soak the saliva up to the gauze in the lips.
3. They said that some people are overly sensitive to UV rays and sunburn. i have freckles, but don't really categorize myself as being "overly sensitive" to sunburn.
We're still looking together for the cause, but don't think we'll find one. I trust the dentist, and now she's very nervous to do the procedure to anyone else.
I was thinking of having zoom whitening done, and now I'm not so sure. I've done the bleaching trays at home, and that can cause sensitivity too if you're not careful. The thing is that I'm not great at consistency and my teeth have never gotten that white with that stuff. I am sorry that people have experienced so much pain with this procedure. Pain is never fun, but it will go away.
Also, just so people know, a botox injection doesn't make you swollen. I think you are all thinking of collagen injections.
I had zoom treatment yesterday an my teeth were sensitive at first an my bottom lip was swollen .When i woke up this morning my teeth do not feel sensitive its my gums that hurt . The gum on the top of my two front teeth is slightly red but looks like its cut as does the gum around the edge of my bottom teeth which looks pale. I also have a cancker sore so its been quite a painful experience upto now . I was just wondering how long it takes for the sores to go xx
Wow! I have an appointment for the Zoom Chairside 2 Whitening procedure this Monday, October 5th. I just happened to Google "Zoom Whitening Side Effects" and found this blog. I'm glad I did! My dentist (or at least his office) has a solid reputation..they're heavily advertised on radio by local radio celebs who have used them and also advertised on tv.... and have (from a pretty reliable source) done dental work for many celebrities( I live in Southern California) But, thanks to this blog, I will make sure that: 1) The person that performs the procedure has been Zoom certified and trained 2)That they've performed the procedure many times before 3) That I ask them to completely protect all soft tissue, and that I use a mirror to double check the areas protected before they start 4) And that I ask them how many times they've had patients coming back in to complain about severe pain, swelling , burns, etc. They're discounting the price at $139 from the normal $500...but they say they would charge $300 for he take home kit??! I actually went in to have the procedure 10 days ago..and they would not do it because I take a medication for high blood pressure. The dentist said that the medication could make me more sensitive to the strong light. They would only do Zoom after I got a signed document from my primary care doctor saying it was o.k. (I guess it's a good sign that they were cautious in that regard....)Either way, I'll let you know how it goes..and my heart goes out to all that have had nightmares after the procedure.
OMG.... I wish i would have read this before doing the ZOOM 2 chairside. My upper lip looks worst than Erik's lip. I had done this before in Southern California and everything turn out fine. Now that i moved to Northern California i decided to do it with my dentist who is great only for teeth work. I really think it matters who you do it with. My first time i di it at a BRIGHT SMILE place that only does teeth whiteing. I so disappointed since it is my sons 10th B-day on Saturday.... You know i wont want to be in any pictures. Not only does it look waful it burns bad. NEVER AGAIN will i do this.
Mark R.C -I had the procedure done also today and seem to have a really similar experience to yourself! Asked lots of questions etc. She stated she has heard stories about teeth whitening gone wrong but mostly from in-mall whitening centers, not so much with a certified zoom! dentistry specialist.
My experience was similar through the sessions also -after reading up on Zoom! I expected to be in absolute agony and was pleased when the zingers weren't as bad as I expected. I have been through a LOT of dental procedures -mini implant etc, so I may have a high pain threshold here!
But overall I would suggest finding a certified and reputable dentist/hygenist and asking lots of questions!
Money well spent!
I'm overwhelmed by the statements made (by a few) that put the blame on the patient for not investigating their dentist properly.
Hey -- dentists are licensed by the state. They went to school for many years. They portray themselves as qualified professionals.
If they're anything less, they should be run out of town.
When a dentist takes shortcuts to save time and money and someone is clearly injured by their bad judgment, then a little sock in the pocketbook may well be in order to wake them up.
Injuries are always easy to dismiss when they happen to someone else.
Some injuries are permanent and last for the rest of your life -- you don't get to swap out your mouth for a new model because someone couldn't be bothered to read and follow instructions.
Hi all,
I'm so happy to have read this blog before calling the # advertized on the radio station for super cheap Zooming.
Some people on this blog suggest that you use trays instead of laser whitening. What are the best tray whitening methods in terms of price and results for someone who has moderate tetracycline staining?
Sorry to hear about all the painful experiences. Thanks for this info, Erik.
I too had Zoom Whitening. No problem with gums or pain during the procedure which lasted about an hour. My teeth where white like chicklets. The problem started when I got in the car. I smiled to admire how white they where. As soon as I did, I experienced the first of many horrible, horrible shooting pains that lasted for seconds, but felt like an eternity. Nothing helped! I cried like a baby on and off for 3 days. I don't recommend this for anyone. It was the worst experience in terms of pain (aside from child birth). This was a year ago. Days later the color faded and I refused to use the bleaching kit supplied out of fear. I now use 5 min Plus White with the bleaching tray supplied by my dentist. It works great without any sensitivity!
Had the Zoom proceedure yesterday. My expeience was not as bad as most on this blog. 4 15-minute sessions certainly made a nice improvement in my teeth. I definetly should have asked more questions and/or found this site prior. Was not aware of the many risks and was fortunate the two gals (not even the dentist) were quite thorough. Have a small burn on lower lip and the tip of my tounge. Had no real pain during the proceedure however for nearly 4-5 hours after I had some severe "stinger" pains in both lower and upper teeth. Thank God I wasn't driving a car I would have gone off the road! A couple of Aleve and some sensitivity gel seemed to help. 18 hours later I have minimal discomfort. I feel as though I was fortuntate to have an excellent practitioner. Frankly if I had known more of the risks I may not have done it. Good luck out there and ask questions!!!
Had the Zoom procedure earlier today (in Egypt, of all places). Been experiencing some 'zingers' in my teeth which brought me to this site. To be fair , my dentist had given me very good warning that I may experience shooting pains for a couple of days after whitening and the pain is fairly mild - but I don't have sensitive teeth usually. Not sure I could recommend for people that do. Procedure itself was completely painless (3x15 mins), but a bit uncomfortable with the mouth guard. Results are superb - I am British (famous for our crap teeth) and now have a California smile. I am very sorry to hear about others' problems. The burns sound terrible. I was completely smothered in ultra high factor sunblock around the lips and mouth - even my nose! - with cotton inside to protect inner cheeks and tongue. Dentist checked on me every 2-3 minutes or so to get a 'thumbs-up' and was very impressed with professionalism and care.
I'm glad I had Zoom and interested to see how long the results last. But anything involving lasers in the mouth carries a risk and, as above, if you have sensitive teeth already then avoid it.
wow..I cant believe some of the people who respond with such criticism. I'm sorry for those of you who have had such bad experiences with Zoom. I havent had the procedure done or anything but I really do feel bad for all of you who went through such pain. I feel so bad just getting a cleaning and having the dentist jab me in the gums with the utensils.. OUCH. Guess I should start flossing more often. Getting my molars pulled tomorrow ....wish me luck.
Hey!
I did some research on Zoom, on the web, and decided to do it.
I went in at 11:30am, about 4 hours ago, and had 4 treatments/sessions. I had some noticable coffee/smoke stains (I smoked for 16 years, quit 2.5 years ago) and the whitening worked really well. My dentist said he got some new whitening gel in (though it wasn't the actual whitening gel but some sort of accellerant that is applied first) and he said he was pleasantly surprised at the improved results he was seeing with it.
During the 4th sessions it was getting uncomfortable. I could start to feel the heat from the lamp warming up my front upper teeth and I could feel a couple pain pangs, nothing serious though. When we were done, I found that left inside of my upper lip was a little swolen (like it was pinched for a long time). I expect it will go away soon, it was not exposed to any light or gel, I think it was just the plastic insert that was holding my mouth open. The other side effect was a whitening of some of the gums at the edge of the gum/tooth line. I asked how long it would take for that to go away (hours? days? weeks? months?) - they told me it would be gone in a couple days.. well hot dog- I've been checking in the mirror and after only a couple hours they are gone! I thought it was bleached or something, so would stay until new gum grew.. but apparently not.
They gave me some sensodyne toothpaste and, from my reading on the web, I stopped by CVS to get some liquid Vitamin E gelcaps.. My teeth are a little sensitive, and I expect that - considering what they just went through!
Overall, I'm very please with results and the minimal discomfort was worth it for me. I think my dentist did a good job. I'll post a follow up in a couple days and let you know how it's been going. Any questions, I'll be happy to try and answer.. win32mfc (at) gmail is my email.
Cheers! ~ CHRIS
My questions are: Did your dentist make you read and sign a consent form prior to the procedure? Did they give you a list of any photoreactive medications that may contradict with having the ZOOM! done?
The Consent clearly goes over any potential sensitivities, risks, good or bad.
Just a question!!!
I have performed nearly 150 Zoom treatments in 3 years and maybe have had a handful of patients with mild sensitivity post procedure.
I would make sure prior to anyone having any cosmetic procedure such as the ZOOM! , that everything is SPELLED out in Black and White.
Terri Reimel
Dental Assistant
Greetings Terri,
No consent form, no medications list.
Regards,
Erik
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