Zoom teeth whitening is a popular choice for encouraging a brighter and more confident smile. Its ability to deliver noticeable results in as little as a single session makes it a go-to for people who value both effectiveness and efficiency.
However, what you do—or rather don’t do—after your teeth-whitening session can significantly affect your result’s longevity and support your oral health while you’re at it.
When it comes to protecting your new, dazzling smile, here are the key things to avoid right after Zoom teeth whitening:
- Stay away from dark beverages like coffee, tea, and red wine.
- Skip foods with staining potential, like soy sauce or berries.
- Avoid smoking entirely.
- Refrain from using coloured toothpaste or mouthwash.
Avoiding these post-treatment pitfalls can help you enjoy your results and show off that smile for a long time.
Why Do Teeth Stain?
Sure, you want whiter teeth, but what causes them to stain in the first place? Teeth stains can develop over time through exposure to various everyday substances. There are three main types of stains:
- Extrinsic stains: These stains affect the outer enamel of the teeth. Common culprits include dark-coloured beverages like coffee, tea, and red wine, as well as tobacco use. Certain pigmented foods, such as berries and tomato-based sauces, can also contribute to extrinsic discoloration. While these stains are mostly superficial, they can deepen over time if not addressed.
- Intrinsic stains: Intrinsic stains occur within the inner structure of the tooth, known as the dentin. These are often harder to remove and may result from excessive fluoride exposure during childhood, certain medications like tetracycline antibiotics, or trauma to the tooth. Intrinsic staining may cause teeth to appear yellow, gray, or even brown.
- Age-related stains: The hard truth is teeth don’t stay white forever. Over time, the enamel on teeth becomes thinner, making the yellowish dentin underneath more visible. Combined with years of exposure to staining substances and wear, this can result in a dull or discoloured appearance.
How Zoom Teeth Whitening Works
Zoom teeth whitening aims to give you a brighter, whiter smile quickly. While there are many whitening options out there, Zoom is designed to address stubborn stains that may not respond as well to other methods.
It all starts with a consultation to check your oral health and determine if the treatment is right for you. During the procedure, your dentist will protect your gums and surrounding areas with a barrier.
Next, they apply a whitening gel with hydrogen peroxide to your teeth and activate it with the Zoom LED light. The light speeds up the gel’s action, breaking down stains by allowing oxygen to penetrate the enamel and dentin. This process happens across a few 15-minute sessions, adding up to about 45–60 minutes.
After the treatment, your dentist can apply a fluoride gel to reduce sensitivity and strengthen your enamel. In as little as one session, it’s possible to see a noticeably brighter smile, sometimes up to eight shades lighter, but individual results may vary.
Immediate Aftercare (First 24 Hours)
The first 24 hours after your Zoom whitening treatment are critical. You can think of this period as the “vulnerable phase,” as your teeth become more porous and prone to staining. It’s a very small window, as the pores will quickly close back up, but keep it in mind. Here are some tips to be mindful of:
- Avoid dark-coloured beverages like coffee, tea, cola, and red wine during this time. Replace them with clear liquids or a trusty glass of water.
- Steer clear of staining foods, such as berries, beetroot, soy sauce, and tomato-based products, which could damage the results.
- Choose white or light-coloured foods, such as plain rice, chicken, cauliflower, and bananas, as safer options.
- Skip coloured toothpaste or mouthwash. Opt for a gentle, dentist-recommended fluoride toothpaste.
- Do not smoke during this window, as tobacco is a stain culprit.
Your commitment to these small changes can extend the results of your treatment and keep your smile looking better.
Long-Term Maintenance (Beyond 24 Hours)
Once the initial 24-hour period has passed, maintaining your whiter smile involves integrating simple habits into your routine.
- Limit staining foods and drinks but if you indulge, always rinse your mouth with water afterward.
- Practice excellent oral hygiene, including brushing twice a day and flossing regularly, to keep plaque buildup at bay.
- Schedule dental checkups every 6 months to address any concerns and encourage healthy teeth.
- Consider touch-up treatments periodically to maintain the brightness of your teeth. Your dentist may send you home with a Zoom touch-up kit and custom-fitted trays to use.
With proper care, results can last for an extended period, depending on individual habits and oral hygiene.
Will My Teeth Be More Sensitive After Whitening?
Some people experience mild tooth sensitivity after a Zoom whitening treatment. This sensitivity is temporary, usually only 24–48 hours, and can happen after any whitening treatment because they all use the same chemicals. However, this discomfort is typically much lower after Zoom treatment, with one study finding that only 1.8% of people experienced sensitivity.
While it will fade in time, here’s how to help minimize discomfort.
- Use sensitivity toothpaste like Sensodyne or Colgate Sensitive, formulated with gentle ingredients to soothe your teeth.
- Avoid extremely hot or cold foods, as these can exacerbate sensitivity. Room-temperature meals and beverages are your safest bet.
- Don’t overbrush. Brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush to help protect your enamel from further irritation.
Keep Smiling Bright with Zoom Teeth Whitening
Congratulations on investing in brighter teeth! Caring for your smile after treatment might require a little extra effort, but it’s well worth it for the confidence and joy a radiant smile brings. If you need guidance on maintaining those pearly whites or want to explore other dental care options, Arch Dental is ready to help.
Help protect your results—book your next appointment with us today! Smile with confidence, knowing you’ve done everything to keep your teeth looking their brightest.
