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.
Fortunately, these zingers generally subside within a few hours post-treatment. If they continue for more than a day or two, it's advisable to consult your dentist to explore potential causes and remedies. In most cases, the sensitivity will diminish within a couple of days after the whitening process is concluded.
You might get a shocking, burning, squeezing, stabbing, cold, or prickly feeling out of nowhere. Some people call them zingers or stingers. These zaps usually last only seconds or minutes.
To reduce the occurrence of zingers, patients can use a desensitizing toothpaste before and after the treatment. They can also avoid hot or cold drinks and food for a few days after the treatment. The good news is that this sensitivity does not last very long.
Teeth whitening can cause temporary side effects. These side effects include tooth sensitivity, tenderness or burning of the gums, and zingers. Sensitivity to temperatures occurs when whitening gel touches the tooth root, the gel concentration is too high, or the gel is worn for too long.
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.
Does Sensodyne Help with Zingers? Yes, Sensodyne and other desensitizing toothpastes can be effective in managing post-whitening sensitivity, including zingers.
Following a "white diet" after teeth whitening can help minimize sensitivity and prevent discoloration. It includes nutritious foods –– such as bananas, cauliflower, and chicken –– that are not brightly colored. Avoid highly pigmented foods and those high in sugar, carbohydrates, and acid, which can stain your teeth.
Teeth sensitivity after whitening is not uncommon, and it usually occurs when the bleaching agents used in the whitening process penetrate the enamel and reach the tooth's nerve centre, known as the pulp.
Over the counter painkillers: If your teeth are sensitive, toothaches may be alleviated with pain medication such as Ibuprofen, which will help numb the pain and reduce inflammation.
The time it takes for the nerve to die can range from a few days to several weeks or even months. As the nerve begins to die, the pain may become less frequent but more throbbing.
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.
Tooth sensitivity and/or tooth pain – Some people may experience increased tooth sensitivity following the teeth whitening procedure, especially when eating or drinking things that are very hot or cold. Increased tooth sensitivity will usually subside after a few days.
Brushing too soon could potentially damage this delicate layer and lead to tooth sensitivity or even enamel erosion over time. To strike a balance between these perspectives, dentists often recommend waiting at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth after using whitening strips.
Cold and warm compresses: Cold compresses are great for numbing tooth pain and bringing down swelling. On the other hand, warm compresses can help with infections by increasing blood flow and reducing inflammation. This simple approach can make a big difference in managing tooth pain.
Sensodyne Rapid Action is the only Sensodyne variant recommended for dabbing directly onto sensitive teeth. Sensodyne Rapid Action can be directly applied by fingertip to a sensitive tooth for one minute to provide fast acting protection.
Over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, naproxen, and aspirin are quite effective at managing teeth sensitivity, particularly when paired with the other recommendations on this list. Consult the label and make sure you take the proper dosage of these medications.
The general advice is to wait at least 30 minutes, allowing the whitening agents time to set fully. However, brushing gently afterward—using a soft-bristled brush and a non-abrasive toothpaste—can help you avoid any potential side effects like irritation or enamel wear.
For most patients, the sensitivity subsides within 24 to 48 hours after the teeth whitening procedure. However, in some cases, it may last up to a week. If you continue to experience sensitivity beyond a week, it's crucial to consult with your dentist.
You might be tempted to leave whitening strips on your teeth for a little longer, but this will increase the risk and severity of side effects like sensitivity and gum irritation. In some cases, overuse of whitening strips has even led to chemical burns on the gums.
Tooth zingers typically 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. Within those two days, your teeth will rebuild the minerals that the hydrogen peroxide stripped and heal itself back to its normal, non-sensitive states.
Most teeth whitening products contain a harmless solution of hydrogen peroxide. This ingredient will break down into water and oxygen during the bleaching process. Furthermore, the possible side effects can include tooth sensitivity and irritation.
When can I eat normally after teeth whitening? After adhering to the “white diet” for 48 hours post-teeth whitening treatment, you can generally return to eating as usual. However, bear in mind that to maintain your newly brightened smile, it's wise to consume staining foods and beverages in moderation.