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Beyond Polus Advanced vs Philips Zoom: Which whitening system is best for dental clinics?

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using the polus advanced

Choosing Between the Top Two Whitening Systems for Dental Clinics

 

When it comes to in-chair teeth whitening, two systems stand out as the industry leaders: the Beyond Polus Advanced and the Philips Zoom WhiteSpeed. Both are trusted by dental professionals around the world and promise fast, effective results for patients wanting a whiter smile in a single visit.

But while they share a similar goal, these systems are built quite differently — from the type of light they use, to how comfortable the treatment feels for patients, to the overall cost of running them in a busy clinic.

In this article, we break down the key differences between Polus and Zoom, feature by feature, to help you decide which system is best for your dental practice.

 

1. Technology & Light Output

Beyond Polus Advanced

The Polus Advanced system uses a combination of three light sources — LED, halogen, and filtered UV — making it one of the most powerful systems available. It produces up to 200,000 lux, which helps break down stains faster and more effectively.

What makes Polus truly unique is its ultrasonic technology. This feature sends strong but gentle vibrations through the whitening gel, helping it work deeper and faster — with less heat and sensitivity for the client.

The machine also has smart filters to block any harmful light and lets you adjust settings depending on the client’s needs — whether they have sensitive teeth or want a more intense result.

Philips Zoom WhiteSpeed

Zoom WhiteSpeed uses LED light only, with three intensity settings (low, medium, high). It’s designed specifically to activate Zoom’s hydrogen peroxide gel and works best in dental clinics where control and consistency matter most.

While it doesn’t have ultrasonic power or multiple light types, it’s a trusted and simple system that delivers good results in around 45 minutes.

 

2. Treatment Time & Session Flow

Beyond Polus Advanced

Polus Advanced treatments take 36 to 45 minutes, depending on the client’s needs and their level of staining on their teeth. The session is broken into three shorter rounds (usually 12–15 minutes each), which makes it easier to manage sensitivity and check progress in between.

Because the machine uses ultrasonic energy and a powerful light, results often show faster, so some clients may not need the full time. The operator has full control and can pause or adjust settings during the treatment.

This flexibility makes Polus a good option for clients who are nervous, sensitive, or short on time.

Philips Zoom WhiteSpeed

Zoom treatments usually take a fixed 45 minutes, broken into four rounds of 15 minutes each. The process is more structured and follows a set routine.

There’s not as much flexibility built into the session, so if a client feels sensitivity halfway through, they may need to stop altogether — or push through.

Zoom’s structure makes it simple to use and consistent from one client to the next, which works well in busy dental clinics that need a predictable workflow.

 

dentists in a clinic smiling

 

3. Sensitivity & Client Comfort

Beyond Polus Advanced

Polus Advanced is known for being gentler on sensitive teeth, thanks to its unique combination of smart light filtering and ultrasonic technology. The system filters out heat and UV rays that can cause irritation, and the ultrasonic feature helps the gel break down stains faster without needing intense light or heat.

The whitening gel used — such as Beyond OSMO — includes desensitising ingredients like glycerin and sodium phytate, designed to protect the enamel and gums. The feedback from many New Zealand clinics using the Polus is that clients experience minimal post-treatment sensitivity, even when whitening to higher levels.

This makes it a strong choice for clients who’ve had issues with sensitivity before, or who are nervous about discomfort.

Philips Zoom WhiteSpeed

Zoom WhiteSpeed is effective — but it’s also known for causing higher levels of sensitivity during and after treatment. The LED light activates the hydrogen peroxide gel quickly, but the intense reaction can trigger “zingers” — sharp, electric-like pains in the teeth — particularly in clients with thin enamel or exposed roots.

Philips acknowledges this in their professional training materials, noting that post-treatment discomfort is common and that a desensitising gel is included in the protocol to help manage it.

While Zoom delivers powerful results, clients often report lingering sensitivity for 12–24 hours afterward, especially when all four sessions are completed at full intensity.

 

4. Cost & Ongoing Expenses

Beyond Polus Advanced

For dental clinics looking to offer premium whitening services, the Beyond Polus Advanced sits in the $7,500–$8,000 NZD range. While that’s a significant upfront investment, it’s on par with other top-tier in-office systems.

The per-treatment cost typically ranges from $35–$65 NZD, depending on whether the clinic already stocks some of the necessary consumables (like cheek retractors and bibs) and what Beyond whitening kits they wish to use. This cost includes:

  • Beyond’s OSMO whitening gel (dual syringe) OR dental whitening kit
  • Gingival barrier gel
  • Single-use applicators
  • Protective covers and accessories

It’s important to note that Beyond whitening gels require refrigeration, so clinics will need to store them properly to maintain product integrity. The shelf life is long when stored correctly, which helps minimise waste.

Clinics can typically price Polus treatments between $299–$499, depending on their location and patient base, offering a solid margin even after consumables are factored in.

Philips Zoom WhiteSpeed

The Zoom WhiteSpeed system is priced in a similar range — typically between $7,000 and $8,000 NZD, depending on supplier pricing and whether a bundled starter kit is included.

Zoom’s per-patient consumable costs are generally higher, averaging $50–$70 NZD per treatment. This includes:

  • Zoom proprietary hydrogen peroxide gel syringes
  • Desensitising relief gel
  • Gingival barrier
  • Vitamin E swabs
  • Cheek retractors
  • Disposable accessories (brush tips, trays, etc.)

Because Philips requires the use of their own branded kits, clinics can’t easily substitute with third-party consumables. This keeps clinical consistency high, but also locks practices into a higher cost per use.

Zoom whitening is often charged at $399–$599 in New Zealand dental clinics, so while margins can be strong, profitability depends on pricing discipline and patient volume.

 

5. Usability & Customisation for Clinics

Beyond Polus Advanced

Polus Advanced is designed for flexibility and clinical control. The unit features a touchscreen interface, making it easy to adjust treatment settings based on patient sensitivity, shade goals, or specific protocols.

Clinicians can choose between different light intensity levels and modes, including options tailored for patients with high sensitivity or previous whitening treatments. The system also includes a built-in air purification unit and cooling fan to enhance comfort during use.

The movable, floor-standing design and adjustable light arm make it easy to position the machine around the dental chair, especially useful in practices where chair-side flexibility matters. Several NZ dentists using the Polus report that they like having more hands-on control during the whitening process.

Philips Zoom WhiteSpeed

Zoom WhiteSpeed is built for simplicity and standardisation. It has three light intensity settings (low, medium, high) and a step-by-step protocol that’s consistent for every patient.

While there’s less room for customisation, this structure works well in busy clinics that want reliable results with minimal setup. The machine includes a pre-programmed timer for each of the four 15-minute rounds, and the operator doesn’t need to make many adjustments once treatment starts.

Its compact, wheeled base is easy to manoeuvre around the chair, and the adjustable lamp arm locks securely into place for precise targeting of the treatment area.

Clinics offering Zoom tend to value its predictability and ease of use, especially where several staff members may rotate whitening duties.

 

6. Results & Patient Satisfaction

Beyond Polus Advanced

The Polus Advanced is known for delivering impressive whitening results, often achieving a 6–8 shade improvement in just one visit. Thanks to the combination of ultrasonic energy and multi-light output, the system helps the gel penetrate deeper into the tooth surface, lifting both surface and deeper stains effectively.

Many clinics report that clients notice visible changes after the first cycle, with full results showing by the end of the 36-minute treatment. According to feedback from Polus providers in NZ and overseas, clients also report less post-treatment sensitivity, which leads to a more positive overall experience and increases the chance of referrals and repeat bookings.

For dentists, this balance between strong results and reduced discomfort makes the Polus a solid choice for both cosmetic-focused and general practice settings.

Philips Zoom WhiteSpeed

Zoom is a well-recognised brand that patients often ask for by name, especially those familiar with dental whitening. It typically delivers a 5–7 shade improvement, depending on the starting colour and how many 15-minute sessions are completed.

Results are often immediate, which is a key selling point, but as mentioned earlier, Zoom is also associated with higher levels of sensitivity — sometimes lasting 24–48 hours. Despite this, many patients are happy with the whitening outcome, especially when they understand what to expect.

Because it’s marketed heavily through dental clinics, Zoom still carries a strong perception of clinical strength and trust, which can be appealing for practices wanting to promote a well-known brand.

 

Image of Polus machine with winner for 15 years banner

 

So, which whitening system is best for your dental clinic?

Both the Beyond Polus Advanced and Philips Zoom WhiteSpeed are powerful, clinic-grade whitening systems — but they serve slightly different needs.

If your clinic is focused on clinical efficiency, brand familiarity, and structured protocols, Philips Zoom WhiteSpeed is a solid choice. It’s a well-known system with a consistent workflow that suits busy dental practices. However, the higher consumable costs and greater chance of post-treatment sensitivity are factors to consider, especially for practices with more sensitive or cautious patients.

On the other hand, the Beyond Polus Advanced offers a clear advantage in several key areas:

  • Greater flexibility in treatment settings and light modes
  • Reduced patient sensitivity due to ultrasonic action and smart light filtration
  • Strong whitening results, often visible after just one round
  • Lower long-term consumable costs, especially for clinics already stocked with basic accessories
  • And critically, it delivers a more comfortable patient experience, which can improve satisfaction, repeat visits, and referrals

For dental clinics that want a premium in-office whitening system with more clinical control, better margins, and higher patient comfort, the Beyond Polus Advanced stands out as the more versatile and forward-thinking option.

 

Plus…the Polus Advanced Ultra has been awarded the Top Whitening System Award by the Dental Association for 15 years running, from 2011 to 2025. You can’t get much better than that!

 

What now?

If you’re interested in the Polus Advanced Ultra whitening machine for your dental clinic, you can find out more about it HERE.

 

Feel like some more research? This scientific study on dentin sensitivity is for dental professionals who are interested in treating dentin sensitivity in patients, or those looking to expand their knowledge of different treatment options for dentin sensitivity and the role of specific ingredients in aiding this.

 

What’s the best way to whiten teeth?

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What’s the Best Way to Whiten Teeth? A Comprehensive Guide

 

Everyone wants a whiter, brighter smile. But with numerous teeth whitening methods available, it’s essential to understand your options to choose the most effective and safe approach. Let’s look at various teeth whitening techniques, their benefits, and other considerations to help you make an informed decision when it comes to your quest for a dazzling smile!

 

What is teeth whitening?

A lady is checking the shade of her teeth with a tooth shade guide

 

 

Teeth whitening involves removing stains and discolouration from the teeth to enhance their appearance. Discolouration can result from various factors, including:

  • Dietary habits: Consuming coffee, tea, red wine, and certain fruits can stain teeth
  • Tobacco use: Smoking or chewing tobacco leads to yellowing
  • Poor oral hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing can cause plaque buildup
  • Aging: Enamel wears down over time, revealing the yellowish dentin beneath
  • Medications: Certain drugs can cause tooth discoloration

 

The best way to professionally whiten teeth

 

In-chair whitening treatments

Performed by professionals, in-chair treatments use high-concentration bleaching agents such as hydrogen peroxide for immediate results.

Pros:

  • Quick and noticeable results, often within one session
  • Supervised by professionals, ensuring safety and effectiveness

Cons:

  • Higher cost compared to at-home methods
  • Potential for temporary tooth sensitivity

 

Beyond Ultra II or Polus Advanced – the best type of in-chair whitening system

 

In-chair teeth whitening remains the gold standard for achieving fast, dramatic, and long-lasting results — especially when performed using advanced technology like the Beyond Ultra II and Polus Advanced systems.

Unlike generic in-chair systems that rely solely on LED activation, the Beyond machines combine blue light with ultrasonic technology, allowing for lower-peroxide whitening gels to deliver better results with less sensitivity.

 

How teeth whitening works

 

The Beyond whitening machines use a dual-syringe hydrogen peroxide gel system:

  • One syringe contains a stabilised peroxide base
  • The other contains a reactive catalyst
  • When mixed and applied, the combination is activated by cool LED light and ultrasonic vibrations

This vibrates the gel down into the microscopic porous of the enamel faster than any other type of whitening system, and helps it reach the stain molecules deep within the enamel, while surrounding these and ‘lifting’ the stain particles clean away.

 

 

Why is Beyond’s ultrasonic whitening system so good?

 

  • Faster gel activation means faster whitening, even with lower hydrogen peroxide strength
  • Ultrasonic technology means no reliance on heat or strong chemical concentration which makes it gentler on enamel
  • Less sensitivity; in fact, clients report significantly fewer post-treatment issues compared to traditional higher-peroxide systems
  • Even, consistent results as the gel is freshly mixed in a dual syringe for each session, ensuring potency and stability
  • NZCTWA compliant — all TWA products and systems meet the legal safety standards for cosmetic teeth whitening in New Zealand

 

 

Why ultrasonic technology matters

 

The ultrasonic element in Beyond’s Polus Advanced and Ultra II is what sets this whitening system apart. Ultrasound is the very latest technology to be used in aesthetic dentistry. Traditional light-activated systems heat the tooth surface, which can lead to dehydration and sensitivity. The Beyond systems avoid this by:

  • Using cool-spectrum LED light (safe for enamel and pulp)
  • Adding ultrasonic energy to stimulate peroxide breakdown without heat
  • Delivering a faster and deeper stain removal process

This combination allows practitioners to achieve amazing results comparable to 35% peroxide systems, as often used in a dentist clinic — without the side effects often recorded, such as tooth or gum sensitivity.

 

Perfect for professional practitioners

 

The Beyond whitening systems used by Teeth Whitening Associates’s members are trusted by hundreds of certified technicians across New Zealand. Each practitioner is trained online and certified through the New Zealand Cosmetic Teeth Whitening Association (NZCTWA), ensuring safety, consistency, and professional standards are upheld.

Whether you’re offering whitening in a beauty salon, clinic, or mobile setting, the Beyond whitening systems provide a reliable, high-end whitening service your clients will trust — and return for. And there are two whitening machines to choose from, so depending on your situation and space, there’s a machine to suit your unique business.

 

Other methods of teeth whitening

 

Custom-fitted whitening trays

When you visit your dentist, they can provide custom-made trays and professional-grade whitening gel for you to use at home. This will be using carbamide peroxide which is designed for longer periods of use, unlike hydrogen peroxide which is only effective for 20 minutes.

Pros:

  • Personalized fit ensures even whitening
  • Professional guidance minimises risks

Cons:

  • Requires multiple applications over days or weeks
  • Costlier than over-the-counter options

 

Whitening strips

These are thin, flexible strips coated with a peroxide-based whitening gel which are applied directly to teeth.

Pros:

  • Affordable and accessible
  • Easy to use at home

Cons:

  • May cause uneven whitening if not applied correctly
  • Potential for gum irritation

a lady using whitening strips

Whitening toothpastes

Dedicated whitening toothpastes normally contain mild abrasives and chemicals to remove surface stains.

Pros:

  • Inexpensive and easy to incorporate into daily routine
  • Helps maintain whiteness after professional treatments

Cons:

  • Limited effectiveness on deeper stains
  • Results take longer to appear

 

Baking soda and hydrogen peroxide paste

For years, people have resorted to a homemade paste combining baking soda and hydrogen peroxide to help remove surface stains.

Pros:

  • Cost-effective and easy to prepare
  • Mild abrasive action cleans teeth

Cons:

  • Overuse can damage enamel
  • Not as effective on deep stains

 

Oil pulling

This is the method of swishing coconut or sesame oil in the mouth to remove bacteria and promote oral health.

Pros:

  • Natural method with additional oral health benefits
  • Easy to incorporate into daily routine

Cons:

  • Limited scientific evidence supporting whitening effects
  • Time-consuming process

 

What are the factors to consider when choosing a whitening method?

 

  • Tooth Sensitivity: Individuals with sensitive teeth should opt for methods with lower peroxide concentrations and consult with a dentist first to ensure their mouth health is in tip-top shape before carrying out any whitening treatment.

 

  • Desired Results: For significant whitening, professional treatments may be more suitable. The professional can tailor the treatment to suit your level of staining/natural teeth colour and achieve the best result possible.

 

  • Budget: Over-the-counter and natural methods are more affordable but may yield slower results. One treatment with a professional often suits a budget better than buying and trying many different types of products to see what works.

 

  • Time Commitment: In-chair treatments offer quick results, while at-home methods require consistent application over time. One-hour appointment is all it takes to achieve your glossiest, brightest smile, and then you’re free to get on with your time!

 

How do you keep teeth white after a treatment?

 

Teeth are susceptible to staining – after all, that’s why people get them whitened in the first place! There are ways to help the effects of teeth whitening and your practitioner will discuss these with you.

 

Some ways to extend the effects of teeth whitening are:

  • Practice good oral hygiene: brush twice daily, floss regularly, and use mouthwash

 

  • Avoid stain-causing foods and beverages: limit intake of coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-coloured fruits

 

  • Quit smoking: tobacco products can quickly stain teeth

 

  • Regular dental checkups: professional cleanings help maintain oral health and whiteness

 

 

Is it safe to whiten teeth at home?

Yes, it can be safe — if you use low-concentration peroxide products and follow instructions. However, home kits are often less effective and may cause gum irritation if applied incorrectly. For best results, consult a trained whitening technician.

How long does it take to whiten teeth?

Professional treatments can whiten teeth by several shades in just one 60-minute session. At-home methods, like strips or whitening trays, typically require daily use for 1–2 weeks to see noticeable results.

What are the side effects of teeth whitening?

The most common side effect is temporary tooth sensitivity. Some users also experience gum irritation if gel contacts soft tissue. These side effects are usually mild and short-lived, especially with systems that use lower peroxide levels and cooling technology.

How long does teeth whitening last?

Results typically last 6–12 months, depending on your diet, lifestyle, and oral hygiene. Avoiding staining foods and drinks and having a touch-up treatment every few months will keep your teeth sparkly white.

Can teeth whitening damage enamel?

The question we are always asked! And the answer is No — professional teeth whitening does not damage enamel when performed correctly. A professional, trained practitioner will only use whitening gels that are pH-balanced and peroxide-controlled to avoid erosion, and systems that reduce heat exposure to keep enamel safe.

 

So what’s the best way to whiten teeth?

When it comes to achieving a noticeably brighter, whiter smile, in-chair teeth whitening using professional-grade systems and certified practitioners is by far the safest and best way – and for good reason.

Compared to at-home kits, whitening strips, or DIY pastes, professional systems offer superior results, greater safety, and a far lower risk of side effects. But not all in-chair systems are created equal.

That’s why at Teeth Whitening Associates, we only recommend trusted, globally recognised systems like the Beyond Ultra II and Polus Advanced whitening machines. These industry-leading devices combine cool-spectrum LED light with ultrasonic energy, allowing our dual-syringe peroxide and catalyst gel system to work faster and deeper — without requiring high peroxide concentrations that can damage enamel.

 

Polus advanced ultra whitening machine
The Beyond Polus Advanced ultrasonic whitening machine

 

Here’s why professional whitening with Beyond whitening systems stands out:

  • ✔️ Faster results — typically 5–8 shades whiter in just one session

 

  • ✔️ Lower sensitivity — thanks to ultrasonic activation and cool light

 

  • ✔️ Fully NZCTWA-compliant — safe for non-dental professionals

 

  • ✔️ Tailored for individual clients — peroxide strength, treatment time, and gel application can all be adjusted

 

  • ✔️ Enamel-safe — no acidic pH, no heat-based drying, no structural damage

 

Conclusion: If you want whitening that works without the risks, and you value comfort, safety, and clinical-grade results, the answer is clear:

The best way to whiten teeth is with a professional in-chair treatment using TWA’s Beyond Ultra II or Polus Advanced whitening machines and medical-grade gels.

 

Want to know more about how safe teeth whitening is? Check out this study on the effects of teeth whitening vs orange juice on enamel – the results may surprise you!

 

Want to start your own teeth whitening business, and become a trained, certified practitioner using the Beyond whitening system? Check out our business start-up packages that offer you everything you need to be successful.

  • Teeth Whitening Associates
  • Partnered with Beyond International and NZCTWA
  • New Zealand-based
  • The trusted authority in teeth whitening for dentists and practitioners. Supplying quality products and professional training.
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