Professional teeth whitening can give you fantastic results – including a bright white smile that has the ability to boost your confidence and enhance your life. While the procedure itself does not hurt, some people do experience tooth sensitivity and what is known as zingers in the 24 to 48 hours following treatment.
These zingers can happen after any type of teeth whitening treatment – including the Zoom! System.
What are Zingers?
Teeth whitening treatments seem easy and effective. And they can have such a positive impact on your life. Though many have experienced or heard horror stories about what happens afterward. Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures can be a bit uncomfortable. For some, sudden shooting sensations of pain often referred to as zingers can be very disruptive. This may even start during the procedure – and continue once you get home.
There is no denying a zinger – you will know that is what you are experiencing when it happens. It sends a sharp pain down into your tooth so sharp and unexpected it may stop you in your tracks.
The good news is that the results from the teeth whitening treatment will often last for months – if not longer, but the sensitivity and the zingers only last a day or two.
Why Post Zoom Whitening Zingers Occur
Let’s take a look at why zingers occur both during and after teeth whitening treatments.
Hydrogen peroxide is often used in these products – including the Zoom! System because it is effective. Hydrogen peroxide can easily penetrate the enamel and break down the molecules causing the stains. This is done through oxidation. As it does, some demineralization can occur, too. As it is circulated within the tooth, it can leave tubes within the dentin layer exposed and can get close to the tooth’s pulp deep inside – where the nerves and other soft tissues are protected.
Thankfully, within a day or two, your tooth can rebuild the minerals and heal itself back up again. Until it does, though, you may find your teeth more sensitive – and you may very well experience zingers.
How to Reduce the Zingers
There are a couple of things you can do to make your teeth whitening experience more enjoyable.
If you have a teeth whitening appointment scheduled, switch to using a toothpaste with potassium nitrate in it for sensitivity, such as Sensodyne, two weeks prior to the whitening appointment. Then, continue using it for two weeks after. This will be your best defense against pesky pain.
Additionally, for the first couple of days following your appointment, try to avoid cold, hot, or sugary foods. This will reduce the chance that you will experience the zingers or overall sensitivity.
Zoom Teeth Whitening at Kingwest Dental
Don’t let the thought of sensitivity or zingers sway you from having the smile you have always dreamed of. After all, there are steps you can take to reduce the pain and increase your comfort.
The Zoom! System is one of the best whitening treatments available. And, under the careful guidance of our highly-skilled team at Kingwest Dental, you can enjoy all the benefits it brings.
Want to learn more? Contact us today at 416-910-1100 to schedule your appointment. Or, book an appointment online.