Teeth whitening is a very popular cosmetic dentistry treatment and can be a great choice if there are any noticeable stains on your teeth. That said, it should be noted that tooth sensitivity is a common side effect of teeth whitening. Before you move forward with brightening your smile, it’s worth taking the time to learn more about how the whitening procedure can lead to sensitivity – as well as what can be done to manage the issue.
Why Does Teeth Whitening Often Result In Tooth Sensitivity?
Many forms of professional and over-the-counter whitening utilize hydrogen peroxide as an active ingredient. Hydrogen peroxide can break up the molecules that form stains in order to improve the color of your teeth. Unfortunately, it also removes some of the minerals from your enamel, exposing the microtubules that connect to the nerves of the tooth. The result is increased sensitivity, which can lead to serious discomfort if your tooth comes in contact with anything that’s especially hot or cold.
What Can You Do to Manage Sensitivity After Teeth Whitening?
It’s best to opt for professional whitening if you’re worried about sensitive teeth. Your dentist can personalize your treatment in order to help you stay as comfortable as possible and keep your sensitivity to a minimum. That being said, it’s still a good idea to take measures to avoid sensitivity once your treatment is complete.
Plan on staying away from any foods that can irritate a sensitive tooth. This naturally includes hot or cold foods and beverages. You should also avoid anything that’s acidic or high in sugar.
It can also be beneficial to make a few changes to your oral hygiene routine. Specifically, you may want to switch to toothpaste that is made with sensitive teeth in mind. One particularly good option is Sensodyne, which contains ingredients like potassium nitrate that can help stop the nerves in the teeth from emitting pain signals.
On top of that, it’s important to be gentle with your teeth while they’re unusually sensitive. Remember to be very careful while brushing, and don’t forget to use a toothbrush that has soft bristles. When you’re ready to rinse your mouth after brushing, be sure to use lukewarm water.
Any sensitivity that occurs after teeth whitening will be temporary and should fade as time passes. Nevertheless, it’s essential to take whatever steps you can to keep the problem under control so that you can enjoy your bright new smile while keeping yourself comfortable.
About the Author
Dr. Rashpal Deol is a well-respected member of the dental community. He currently holds membership with the California Dental Association and various other organizations. At Oak Ridge Dental in San Ramon, he’s able to help his patients achieve brighter smiles via reliable in-office and at-home whitening options. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Deol, visit his website or call (925) 735-6190.
