Everyone wants a beautifully white smile, but years of exposure to foods and drinks that are high in dyes and pigments can leave unsightly stains and discoloration on one’s teeth. Luckily, dentists can perform teeth whitening treatments that can lift stubborn stains from beneath and atop the surface of the enamel, leaving a smile up to eight shades whiter. However, some patients may experience temporary dental sensitivity after the procedure. Here’s a brief guide to how you can avoid this problem as well as a few ways you can manage it.
How Can Teeth Whitening Make My Teeth Sensitive?
Dental sensitivity can happen for a range of reasons and manifests itself in a variety of ways. While some people report experiencing the issue after teeth whitening, it can also occur after another recent dental treatment or due to an underlying dental condition such as thin enamel.
When teeth sensitivity happens after teeth whitening, it may be due to the peroxide-based whitening agents used during the procedure. Some people are sensitive to peroxide, and they may experience brief dental discomfort when inhaling, brushing their teeth, or enjoying hot, cold, spicy, sweet, or sour foods or beverages. While this issue usually diminishes over time, it’s best to contact your dentist if the problem seems to be getting worse after a few days.
How Can I Avoid Dental Sensitivity After Teeth Whitening?
One of the best ways to avoid the unpleasant sensation of dental sensitivity is to take care to only enjoy mild beverages at room temperature after teeth whitening. The whitening process can remove some of the minerals from your enamel, leaving the teeth less insulated until they have had the chance to remineralize. Slightly cool or lukewarm water is the best beverage while your teeth are recuperating after whitening treatment.
If you need a little extra help staying comfortable, you may wish to use desensitizing toothpaste that helps raise the threshold of discomfort in your teeth. You may also wish to try using over-the-counter pain relievers to dull the sensation. It’s also important to continue practicing excellent oral hygiene after teeth whitening to keep your teeth strong and healthy and prevent new stains from developing.
Dental sensitivity after teeth whitening is an annoying but temporary issue. By taking care to avoid foods and beverages that can irritate sensitive teeth, you can keep yourself comfortable while your newly whitened smile reinforces its enamel.
About the Practice
Gannett Drive Dental offers the finest oral healthcare available in South Portland. Led by Drs. John A. Kivus and Jennifer Gagnon, the staff ensures that each patient enjoys a pleasant dental experience in a warm and welcoming environment. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry such as teeth whitening. To learn more about keeping your teeth comfortable after teeth whitening, contact the office online or dial (207) 253-5600.