My dentist charges too much for the Zoom whitening gel that I use for my touch-ups. My co-worker’s dentist gives her the touch-up gel for free. She has a drawer full of the gel because she doesn’t need to do touch-ups that often. During my last dental appointment, my dentist asked if I needed more gel and I told her that I got some from a friend who has more than enough. My dentist kind of scolded me about using someone else’s gel and implied I was being frugal but risky. The gel my co-worker has is still in an unopened package, so I know it’s Zoom. What’s wrong with using the free gel? Is my dentist just trying to make money off of me any way she can? Thank you. Alison
Alison –Zoom whitening gel should be good for about a year. Gel that is still fresh should be clear—not cloudy or white in color. Depending on the expiration date of the gel, even if it is not discolored, it still might not be potent and effective.
Depending on the condition of your teeth and the extent of your stains, you are given a bleaching gel that matches the needs of your case. Is the bleaching gel from your workmate, the correct strength of carbamide peroxide?
If you use Zoom bleaching gel that isn’t strong enough, it will have minimal effect on your teeth. You might not be able to tell that you did a touchup on your teeth. If the gel is too strong, it can create sensitivity in your teeth and possibly burn your gums.
We don’t recommend that you use someone else’s bleaching gel. If you decide to do it anyway, you need to ensure that you are using the same gel that your dentist would provide you. The name and strength of the gel must match, and the gel should have a future expiration date.
If you use the Zoom gel and experience any unusual side effects or any problems with your teeth, be certain to schedule an appointment with your dentist for an exam.
This post is sponsored by Bedminster, NJ cosmetic dentist Dr. Allyson Hurley.