Introduction (General Care Instructions)
Congratulations on your brighter, whiter smile! To maximize and maintain the results of your Zoom Whitening treatment, it”s essential to follow these post-operative instructions carefully. The first 24-48 hours after your treatment are crucial for preventing re-staining and managing any temporary sensitivity.
Common Post-Op Symptoms & How to Manage Them
It is common to experience some tooth sensitivity or pain after Zoom Whitening. This is normal and usually temporary. Here’s how to manage it:
Sensitivity (Zingers): You may experience sharp, shooting pains or general sensitivity in your teeth. This typically subsides within 24-72 hours. To alleviate sensitivity:
- Avoid extremely hot or cold foods and drinks.
- Use a desensitizing toothpaste (e.g., Sensodyne) for a few days.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) as directed.
- Your dentist may have provided a desensitizing gel or fluoride treatment; use as instructed.
Dietary Restrictions and Recommendations (The “White Diet”)
For the first 24-48 hours after your Zoom Whitening treatment, your teeth are more porous and susceptible to staining. It is critical to follow a “white diet” during this period to prevent re-staining and ensure the best possible results.
Foods and Drinks to Eat (White Diet):
- Proteins: Chicken (skinless, plain), turkey (plain), white fish, egg whites.
- Dairy: Milk, plain yogurt, white cheese, cottage cheese.
- Grains: White rice, white pasta (without colored sauces), white bread (crust removed).
- Fruits/Vegetables: Bananas, peeled apples, potatoes (without skin, plain), cauliflower.
- Drinks: Water, milk.
Foods and Drinks to Avoid (for at least 24-48 hours):
- Dark-colored beverages: Coffee, tea (black, green, herbal), red wine, dark sodas, fruit juices (grape, cranberry, orange).
- Dark-colored foods: Red sauces (tomato sauce, ketchup), mustard, soy sauce, berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries), chocolate, spinach, beets, carrots.
- Acidic foods/drinks: Citrus fruits, vinegar, highly acidic foods (can increase sensitivity).
- Tobacco products: Smoking or chewing tobacco can severely stain your newly whitened teeth.
After the initial 24-48 hours, you can gradually reintroduce other foods, but continue to be mindful of highly staining items to maintain your results.
Oral Hygiene and Care
Maintain your regular oral hygiene routine, but with some considerations:
- Brushing: Continue to brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. You can use your regular toothpaste or a desensitizing toothpaste if sensitivity is an issue.
- Flossing: Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles.
- Rinsing: If you use a colored mouthwash, consider switching to a clear or white mouthwash for a few days.
Medications and Pain Management
As mentioned, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen are usually sufficient for managing any temporary sensitivity. Follow the dosage instructions on the packaging. If sensitivity is severe or prolonged, contact our office.
Activity Restrictions (Physical Activity, Work, etc.)
There are no specific activity restrictions after Zoom Whitening. You can resume your normal daily activities immediately.
When to Contact Us / Emergency Instructions
Contact our office immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Severe or persistent tooth sensitivity that does not subside with over-the-counter pain relievers or desensitizing products.
- Any unusual or unexpected reactions.
Follow-Up Appointments
Your dentist will advise if a follow-up appointment is necessary. To maintain your bright smile, consider periodic touch-up treatments as recommended by your dentist and continue to practice good oral hygiene.
