A gleaming white smile can give you a confidence lift, but if you have recently had your teeth whitened, you might well be suffering some discomfort. Tooth sensitivity after whitening is a common condition that afflicts many individuals. This temporary sensitivity can cause pain while eating and drinking and may even make it uncomfortable to breathe through the mouth. Fortunately, there is effective management for this form of discomfort, as it protects the teeth.
Why Does Teeth Whitening Cause Sensitivity?
Teeth whitening procedures involve the use of bleaching products such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide to dissolve stains on the enamel. Although these substances work well in making your smile whiter, they may soften the enamel temporarily and expose the dentin layer below. Dentin has small tubules that link to the nerve endings of your teeth, thus making them more sensitive to changes in temperature, pressure, and even exposure to air.
How to Reduce Sensitivity After Teeth Whitening
If you’re experiencing discomfort after whitening your teeth, there are several effective ways to alleviate it. Here are some practical tips for post-whitening tooth pain relief:
1. A normal Desensitizing Toothpaste can also be used
Using toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth can block the pain signals from reaching the nerves. Look for products that contain potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride, which are believed to strengthen the enamel and alleviate pain.
2. Do not Take Hot and Cold Foods
Your teeth will be more sensitive to temperature after the whitening procedure. To decrease pain, do not take very hot or very cold food or beverages such as coffee, tea, ice cream, and cold sodas.
3. Brush Softly with a Toothbrush with Softer Bristles
Brushing aggressively can increase sensitivity because it wears down the enamel. Select a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush in a circular motion around the teeth to clean them without irritating them further.
4. Apply Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride may remineralize enamel and make your teeth more resistant to sensitivity. You can apply fluoride mouthwash or consult your dentist in Burlington regarding professional fluoride treatments.
5. Restrict Acidic foods and drinks.
Acidic foods and drinks such as fruit juices, vinegary salad dressing, soda pop, and alcohol make your teeth more sensitive and wear down enamel. Skip these foods and drinks in the first few days after whitening so that your enamel can mend.
6. Take Breaks Between Whitening Treatments
If you whiten your teeth regularly, it might be a good idea to space the treatments further apart so that your enamel has a chance to strengthen itself. You can over-whiten your teeth and become hypersensitive, as well as create damage to the enamel over the long term, and then the only solution will be sensitive teeth treatment near you.
7. Use a Sensitivity Gel
Desensitizing or remineralizing gels can be used to soothe sensitive teeth after whitening. They are normally available over the counter or as a prescription from your Burlington dentist.
8. Drink through a straw
Drinking cold or acidic drinks with a straw minimizes contact with your teeth and therefore reduces pain and sensitivity.
9. Use a Lower-Strength Whitening Product
If you are using home whitening products and are facing extreme sensitivity, use one containing a lower percentage of bleaching products. Whitening your teeth for shorter periods is another solution to reduce the discomfort.
10. Use Pain Relievers if Needed
For extreme sensitivity, you can try using over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to deal with the pain. This is a temporary fix while you seek to deal with the underlying cause of sensitivity.
Sensitivity following whitening is transient and can be handled with good care. By implementing these tips on how to reduce sensitivity after teeth whitening, you can get to enjoy your whiter smile without pain.
Find The Best Dentist For Teeth Whitening In Burlington
If you require professional assistance, Lakeside Family Dental offers procedures such as whitening of the teeth and sensitive teeth treatment in your area. If you require relief from pain after whitening or if you require safe and effective whitening, we are here to help you. Make an appointment today and have a great smile with less pain!
