If you’ve tried various over-the-counter teeth whitening solutions, you’re probably all too familiar with the pain that comes afterward. Tooth sensitivity is a reality for most individuals who entrust their smile to store-bought products, which can make the idea of pursuing the help of a cosmetic dentist for whiter teeth seem like a bad idea. But before you give up on the idea of life with a brighter, more beautiful smile, find out what you can do to minimize sensitivity and how professional services can often mitigate post-whitening discomfort altogether.
Why Does Sensitivity Occur After Teeth Whitening?
The reason tooth sensitivity occurs after having your pearly whites treated is that many of the products that are found on drugstore shelves contain hydrogen peroxide. If you are sensitive to it, you will find that your teeth become uncomfortable and even painful while attempting to eliminate stains.
The moment you eat or drink anything hot or cold, the temperature triggers the nerves within your teeth, resulting in pain signals that create an unpleasant sensation. Although it is only temporary, it can often be enough to cause you to stop treatment.
Can You Minimize the Risk of Tooth Sensitivity While Whitening Your Smile?
Yes, there are a few things you can do to reduce your risk of tooth sensitivity. This includes:
- Being aware of the ingredients that are found in various teeth whitening solutions.
- Avoiding hot or cold temperatures immediately following your teeth whitening treatment.
- Use a desensitizing toothpaste to keep your teeth clean after undergoing treatment.
- Talk to your dentist about your tooth sensitivity before moving forward with any kind of professional treatment.
Does Professional Teeth Whitening Cause Tooth Sensitivity?
If you’re willing to allow a trusted professional to help you achieve the whiter, brighter results you desire, you may be surprised to discover that you experience little to no sensitivity after treatment.
While this is not always the case, as each person is different, it’s unlikely that the severity of post-whitening discomfort is the same as what occurs when using a store-bought kit.
The reason professional teeth whitening does not tend to cause significant tooth sensitivity is that the bleaching gel used by trusted dentists is often of a higher quality and more “bleach-based” than “peroxide-based.” Also, the timeframe of daily wear is likely to be less than what is recommended on a store-bought product.
If any sensitivity does occur, it’s important to use recommended desensitizing products so that the symptoms only last a short time (i.e., a few days). However, in many cases, patients walk away with brighter smiles that look and feel great.
About Grand Dental – Aurora
At Grand Dental – Aurora, a transformed smile with the help of cosmetic dentistry is possible. With professional teeth whitening, our team of professionals can boost appearances, brighten smiles, and increase confidence like never before. Our qualified cosmetic dentists possess years of experience and training, providing individuals with safe solutions that lead to exceptional results. Visit our website or call (630) 538-8302 to learn more.