Tooth whitening is a popular way for patients to clean discoloration from their pearly whites and achieve a smile that is truly dazzling. Whether you whiten your teeth professionally, take home a whitening kit, or add whitening toothpaste to your hygiene routine, you’re bound to feel more confident and ready to show off your new look.
There are some people, though, that might experience an uncomfortable sensitivity. Air, heat, cold, strong flavors, or even brushing can cause shooting pain, leaving some to wonder, “Why are my teeth so sensitive?” “Could I have prevented this?” “How do I relieve this pain?”
These are all good questions that, fortunately, have answers.
Why Are My Teeth Sensitive After Tooth Whitening?
Sensitivity after a whitening treatment can occur for several reasons, but ultimately comes down to a patient’s unique biology. Factors can include:
- Peroxide sensitivity
- Thin enamel
- Other pre-existing dental conditions
The hydrogen peroxide in most whitening agents will aggravate delicate teeth, while thin tooth enamel will cause dentin to be more exposed.
“What’s dentin?” It’s a lesser-known layer that, under normal circumstances, is protected by enamel. Dentin rests closer to nerve endings, making it an especially touchy substance. The more dentin that encounters foreign sensations like extreme temperatures and harsh textures, the more pain someone is likely to feel.
Can I Prevent Tooth Whitening Sensitivity?
Preventing sensitivity after tooth whitening treatment also depends on several factors. If peroxides are causing the irritation, patients can look for products with lower peroxide levels and shorter application times. To find a product that meets their specific needs, patients should talk to their dentists and ask for recommendations.
Dentists can also offer individualized treatment plans that over-the-counter services simply can’t. Your dentist can examine your dental health history and the current state of your pearly whites to determine the best preventative care solution for you. To mitigate soreness, they have access to professional-grade whiteners that are specifically designed to be gentler.
How Do I Relieve Sensitive Teeth After Whitening?
If preventative treatments don’t seem to alleviate discomfort, take heart – there are a few tricks to relieving immediate sensitivity.
Certain gels and toothpastes on the market have sensitivity-reducing properties. You can also lower the amount of whitening agent you apply, be forgiving by increasing the time between each whitening treatment, or stop using your whitening products until your teeth are settled and comfortable again.
Regardless of why a patient’s teeth might be sensitive after whitening, if preventative or immediate solutions don’t alleviate pain, patients should consult their dentists. It’s uncommon to experience tooth sensitivity after a professional treatment, and any long-term aches could indicate underlying conditions. A dentist will be able to determine appropriate solutions in these cases.
About the Author
Dr. Bemani practices at Advanced Dental Clinic in Catonsville, Maryland and earned her dental degree from the University of Maryland School of Dentistry. She recognizes that each patient has unique needs. Whether it be through in-office treatment, take-home kits, or other cosmetic options, Dr. Bemani will find the whitening solution that works best for you. To learn more or schedule an appointment, visit her website or contact the office at 443-222-0993.