Will Teeth Whitening Make My Teeth Sensitive?
June 11, 2021 2:56 pm |If you’ve been considering professional teeth whitening services recently, you may have heard that some people suffer from increased sensitivity after their treatments. But is this actually a common side effect, and if so are there steps that can be taken to reduce the discomfort? At Meadow Creek Family Dentistry in Spartanburg and Inman, SC, we believe that dental care should be stress-free. To that end, we want to give you all the information you need so that you can confidently move ahead with your whitening appointment.
What Does the Teeth Whitening Process Consist Of?
A professional whitening tends to be much more effective than common over-the-counter products you’d find at your local pharmacy. In a dental office you also have a skilled team who can take your preferences and personal smile goals into account when deciding what treatment is right for you. During an in-house appointment your teeth will be covered with a concentrated whitening gel that can break down stains on your teeth. Typically multiple coats of the gel are applied to achieve particular shades. Teeth whitening procedures aren’t permanent but they can last for a good amount of time.
What About the Whitening Process Makes Teeth More Sensitive?
For some patients, the peroxide used in whitening chemicals can create microscopic pores in the teeth that lead to dental nerves, increasing sensitivity. This can result in sudden shooting pains in the days just after a treatment, usually caused by specific foods or extreme temperatures. Fortunately, these effects don’t tend to last long and many patients avoid them entirely. If your teeth are naturally sensitive however, you’re more likely to experience side effects. That’s where your friendly dental team comes in! Let us know ahead of time and we can take that into account during your treatment.
Is There Anything Else I Can Do To Reduce Sensitivity After My Appointment?
Absolutely! Here are some steps you can take to minimize discomfort:
Watch what you eat: A bit of caution goes a long way. Foods that are acidic, spicy, too hot, or too cold are more likely to cause discomfort.
Use the right toothpaste: Most brands offer toothpaste specifically designed for sensitive teeth. Not only will these help with your post-whitening recovery, if you start using it in advance of your appointment it can reduce discomfort before the treatment even begins.
Brush with care: Many people brush with too much force, and this can be even more of a problem after a teeth whitening appointment. Try using a soft-bristled brush with low, even pressure.
Professional Teeth Whitening in Spartanburg & Inman, SC
Would you like to boost the brightness of your smile for summer parties, vacations and special events? Teeth whitening is a fast and noticeable cosmetic treatment. And it’s especially affordable for patients with our VIP Membership. Did you know that one of the annual membership benefits is a complimentary teeth whitening? Contact our team at Meadow Creek Family Dentistry to learn more and to schedule your appointment. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Categorised in: Cosmetic Dentistry
