Zingers
Hydrogen peroxide is the active ingredient in Zoom in-chair whitening, and also in the majority of teeth whitening products.
Hydrogen peroxide works by releasing free oxygen radicals which then break down the organic material (which is causing the staining) on the tooth surface, as well as any organic material within the enamel layer of the tooth. When the free radicals extend into the enamel of the teeth it can cause zingers in some individuals.
Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity (not zingers), after tooth whitening is usually as a result of
- crack in a tooth
- gingival/gum recession
- undiagnosed cavity/hole in a tooth
- failure of an existing restoration
The enamel layer of the teeth is a protective layer. If the enamel layer is damaged or worn away it exposes the dentine layer. The dentine layer is made up of tubules. These are like spaghetti tubes, with tiny holes extending down the length of them. These tubules communicate with the pulp, which is where the nerves of the tooth are found.
Any damage to the enamel layer of the tooth will mean that the whitening gel may come into contact with the nerve of the tooth, causing sensitivity.
How to minimise the risk of Zingers and sensitivity after in chair teeth whitening
A comprehensive dental exam will identify any risk factors that need to be addressed prior to tooth whitening.
Teeth with decay/hole should be cleaned and the tooth restored with a dental filling to seal and protect the nerve.
Teeth with cracks may/may not require further treatment such as a restoration or crown. This would depend on how extensive the crack is.
Teeth with gingival/gum recession should be treated with desensitising medicants (sensitive toothpaste or desensitising gel) for two weeks prior to whitening treatment.
As a general precaution, we recommend all patients planning on having Zoom Teeth Whitening should use desensitising toothpastes and gels before treatment.
As part of your Zoom! Teeth Whitening experience
We get you to use a specialised desensitising toothpaste or gel for two weeks before treatment
We advise you to take Ibuprofen prior to your treatment
We cover your gums and sensitive areas of your teeth with a protective barrier, so they aren't in contact with the whitening gel.
Straight after your whitening treatment, we get you to wear your custom-made trays with Relief Gel and take over-the-counter pain relief as necessary to prevent Zingers
Despite our best efforts, some individuals will still have sensitivity following their appointment. The good thing is that this resolves within 24-48 hours
Wanting whitening, but have a history of Zingers?
Here at Profilo Dental we have you covered.
HiSmiles Professional is an alternative in-chair teeth whitening product that can guarantee apain-freeexperience that produces the most natural, healthy shade of white possible for patients.
Hi Smiles Professional uses Phthalimidoperoxycaproic acid (PAP). This is in place of hydrogen peroxide. No free radicals are released, therefore no zingers. If PAP comes into contact with the soft tissues it will cause no damage. This is in comparison to hydrogen peroxide which requires a protective barrier to be placed to prevent chemical burn to the soft tissue.
FAQs
Zingers are sudden, sharp zaps in a tooth that some people may experience after tooth whitening. They usually last for a few seconds at a time. These can occur during the whitening procedure and may last for a day or two after treatment.
Why is there a shooting sensitivity in my tooth after whitening? ›
While teeth whitening is very safe and effective, it is common to experience sensitivity after your treatment. The good news is that this sensitivity is only temporary; however, it can still cause some discomfort for the first few days after your procedure.
How long does teeth sensitivity last after teeth whitening? ›
Teeth sensitivity after a professional whitening treatment can last a few days or weeks, or up to several months after. The length of your potential teeth sensitivity all depends on you and your unique case.
Can teeth whitening cause permanent sensitivity? ›
Teeth whitening by a professional does not lead to permanent sensitivity. You will start to experience perceptiveness during the process and for a short while after. The feeling is pronounced on the first day but improves significantly after that.
How long after teeth whitening can I eat normally? ›
When the dentist whitens teeth, your teeth can become sensitive to different foods that can stain. After 24-72 hours, you can resume your regular diet. The following are the things that you need to avoid after teeth whitening. Sugary foods can irritate your teeth and trigger the bacteria responsible for causing decay.
How to close teeth pores after whitening? ›
By gently coating your teeth with a product like MI Paste or Colgate's Pro-Argin Toothpaste, you will plug up open pores on your teeth and reduce sensitivity. Additionally, the remineralizing effects of these pastes help to improve whitening.
Should I rinse my mouth after LED whitening? ›
Rinse With Water Immediately After Eating Or Drinking
One of the most important things you can do after a teeth whitening session is to rinse your mouth with water immediately after eating or drinking.
Does teeth whitening damage your teeth? ›
We all want a white brighter smile. But this begs the question “does teeth whitening damage the enamel?” The answer is no. While there may sometimes be side effects, whitening treatment is safe on tooth enamel. The process of tooth whitening is essentially the tooth will become dehydrated, meaning dried out.
Does ibuprofen help teeth sensitivity? ›
NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and naproxen can help with tooth sensitivity after whitening, so feel free to take these drugs as directed by the label to help with sensitivity.
Is teeth whitening bad for your teeth? ›
“Generally speaking, whitening kits are not harmful to your teeth,” explains Dr. Greg Scheier, DDS of Scheier Dental Group. “There are, however, potential temporary sensitivities, both in the teeth and gums, that may result from the use of both over-the-counter and dentist-administered whitening kits.”
One of the side effects you may have heard from others who have whitened their teeth is that sensitivity may occur. This may feel like general sensitivity to hot or cold, or it may involve sudden "zingers," somewhat like shooting sensations of discomfort. This need not keep you from getting the dazzling smile you want.
How long after teeth whitening can I drink coffee? ›
Our Brookfield patients should expect to avoid coffee and wine for at least 48 hours after treatment. This is crucial to protecting whitening results because the teeth are typically more porous and vulnerable to staining in the first couple days after treatment.
How do you get rid of teeth whitening burns? ›
Rinse your mouth with salt water to reduce the inflammation in your mouth and get rid of any bacteria. Soak a teabag (either black or green tea) in boiling water, let it cool fully, and then apply it directly onto the burned area of your gum. Make a soothing herbal paste using either turmeric or clove powder.
What painkillers are good for sensitive teeth after whitening? ›
NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and naproxen can help with tooth sensitivity after whitening, so feel free to take these drugs as directed by the label to help with sensitivity.
