Sensitive Solutions: Avoiding Tenderness After Teeth Whitening

One of the first things others notice about you is the quality of your smile. Unfortunately, if yours is tinted more brown or yellow than pearly white, you might not make a positive impression. Plus, if you’re overly worried about being judged for your looks, you might try to remain tight-lipped or try not to interact socially with others.

Your dentist can help you safely whiten your teeth, but you might avoid this topical treatment if you’re concerned about sensitivity. Continue reading to learn why this cosmetic service sometimes causes tenderness and how to prevent it!

What Happens During Teeth Whitening?

Whether you’re attempting to use an over-the-counter whitening kit or are seeing your dentist for instant results from an in-office procedure, there are potentially several ways to brighten your smile. Although these methods can vary in quality, cost, and outcome, they tend to function similarly.

This is because most teeth whiteners rely on bleach, like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, to lighten your enamel. These ingredients undergo a chemical reaction when they come into contact with your saliva. This breaks down the pigmented particles on your pearly whites to reduce their size and concentration, which visibly lightens your grin.

How Does Teeth Whitening Cause Sensitivity?

Your enamel might appear to have a completely smooth surface, but on a microscopic level, it’s covered in tiny pores. Bleach expands these openings, allowing sensation to travel more easily through the tubules of the underlying layer of dentin to trigger discomfort in the roots of your teeth.

For example, you’re more likely to feel a sharp sensation when eating or anything overly hot or cold because the extreme temperatures can travel to your roots and cause discomfort. You might also experience tenderness if you overapply bleach or repeat treatment without waiting long enough between sessions.

How Can I Prevent Sensitivity After Teeth Whitening?

Thankfully, there are several ways to mitigate these pangs of discomfort. For instance, if you’ve opted for commercial-grade solutions, try to choose something with lower peroxide levels and shorter application times to avoid aches. You can also purchase a desensitizing toothpaste or mouthwash to reduce the sensations. Finally, steering clear of triggering foods, such as those at extreme temperatures, or any ingredients that are overly hard, crunchy, spicy, or acidic, can also help.

However, the most effective way to achieve your smile goals without inducing sensitivity is to contact your dentist! They’ll examine your mouth to ensure no gum disease or cavities can interfere and utilize professional-grade products designed to prevent potential aches!

Meet the Author

Dr. Thomas Peters is passionate about helping improve patients’ lives by enhancing their dental health. He earned a Doctor of Dental Medicine from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine, and is one of less than 2% of dentists in the U.S. to become a Master with the Academy of General Dentistry. Today, he offers a comprehensive menu of services to meet all your needs under one roof, and uses state-of-the-art technology to provide comfortable, accurate treatment results. If you want to whiten your teeth to boost your appearance, you can request an appointment on the website or call (860) 677-8500.