If you’re dealing with stained teeth, you’ve at least considered professional teeth whitening. Your dentist could make your “pearly whites” live up to their name in just a single appointment. However, you may be holding back due to a fear of teeth sensitivity. After all, replacing one dental issue with another wouldn’t do much good. That said, what should you do?
Prevent it, of course! To that end, here’s a summary of teeth whitening sensitivity — its nature, its causes, and tips for avoiding it in the future.
What is Teeth Whitening Sensitivity?
Some patients report tooth aches, soreness, and discomfort after a professional whitening treatment. It’s these post-procedure symptoms that are considered “Teeth Whitening Sensitivity.”
While uncomfortable, keep in mind that it doesn’t cause any permanent damage to your teeth. It also usually doesn’t last very long. Should you notice continued sensitivity, consult with your local dentist.
What Causes This Sensitivity?
First, professional teeth whitening usually doesn’t cause sensitivity at all. If and when it does, the discomfort often has more to do with the patient’s oral health.
For instance, some people have teeth naturally sensitive to whiteners’ peroxide. Consequently, their teeth may start to ache during the procedure. Furthermore, the teeth may feel uncomfortable when you drink or eat hot or cold products.
On the other hand, the sensitivity may come from thin enamel or an underlying dental condition.
How Do I Avoid Whitening Sensitivity?
There are ways to prevent or avoid teeth sensitivity following your whitening. Consider these suggestions:
- Stay Away from Extreme Temperatures: Stick with room temperature foods and drinks just after whitening. That way you can avoid temperature-related tooth pain.
- Use Products with Lower Peroxide Levels: Five-to-six percent would be the recommended amount. With these levels, the peroxide is less likely to trigger sensitivity.
- Use Products with Shorter Application Times: As a rule, don’t use treatments that take over five minutes. If you do, the peroxide and other ingredients may cause soreness.
Otherwise, talk with your dentist about possible teeth whitening options. They’ll make good product recommendations that meet your dental needs.
As you can see, you don’t need to let sensitive teeth keep you from professional whitening. Talk to your dentist to see if you can get a white, pain-free smile in the coming days!
About the Author
Dr. David M. Fisher, Jr. is a dentist in Greensboro, NC, having earned his dental doctorate from UNC-Chapel Hill. Through his dental work, he takes great joy in improving patients’ health, wellness, and confidence. He also considers aesthetic dentistry one of his passions, though he specializes in preventive and restorative treatments too. Dr. Fisher currently practices at his self-titled clinic and can be reached at his website or by phone at (336)-288-1242.