Teeth whitening treatments have become a popular method to achieve a brighter smile, however, a common side effect of these treatments is tooth sensitivity. This discomfort is usually temporary, but can detract from the joy of your newly whitened teeth.
Understanding why this happens and how to manage it can make your teeth whitening experience more comfortable.
Professional teeth whitening procedures involve the use of bleaching agents like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These chemicals penetrate the porous enamel to reach discoloured molecules inside your teeth, effectively bleaching them.
During this process, the enamel temporarily becomes more permeable, which can expose the dentin—the sensitive layer of your tooth beneath the enamel.
This exposure can lead to the heightened sensitivity many experience following teeth whitening treatments.
Consult with your dentist to select a whitening treatment that balances effectiveness with a gentle formulation. Some products are specially formulated for sensitive teeth.
Before starting teeth whitening treatment, consider using toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth.
These pastes contain ingredients like potassium nitrate or strontium chloride, which help block the transmission of pain signals from the surface of your tooth to the nerve.
Begin using these products at least two weeks before your treatment.
Always follow the guidance provided by your dental care professional. This might include recommendations on the duration of use for whitening products and the frequency of treatments.
After whitening, try to avoid very hot or cold foods and beverages for a few days. Extreme temperatures can exacerbate sensitivity, causing discomfort.
Continue to brush and floss regularly, but consider using a softer toothbrush and being gentle around your gums. This helps prevent further irritation while maintaining dental health.
If sensitivity persists, it may be necessary to pause between treatment sessions to allow your teeth to recover. This is especially important if you are using a home whitening kit.
While tooth sensitivity is a common side effect of teeth whitening, it doesn’t have to be a barrier to achieving the smile you desire. With the right strategies, you can manage sensitivity effectively.
If you’re considering teeth whitening in Kettering, discussing your options and any concerns with a dentist at Kettering Dental & Implant Clinic can provide you with personalised advice tailored to your dental needs.
Remember, the health and comfort of your teeth are just as important as their appearance.
Back to Blog"I was very impressed with how professional and polite the dentist and practice staff where. I would defiantly recommend this practice to anyone who needs a dentist"
View all Testimonials"Booked as an emergency visit today. The online booking system was impressive and the first for me with a Dental Practice, modern times in a forward-thinking Practice, well done."
View all Testimonials"I have been looking for a dentist for a while now and I’m happy I’ve found this place! 😊 friendly, clean and professional practice!"
View all Testimonials"Very efficient and friendly team!!! My wife and I had a fantastic experience from the moment we stepped into the clinic until we left. Highly recommended professional service. We have…
View all Testimonials"After several years of bad experiences with dentists, I wanted to try somewhere new especially as I was suffering from a bad toothache so I called dental care in Kettering.…
View all Testimonials"Booked an emergency appointment, when I arrived, the staff were extremely helpful and professional. I was made to feel at ease and during the treatment, every step was explained. I…
View all Testimonials"Really nice staff. The dentist was fantastic. The best dental practice I've ever been to. If your looking for a dentist look no further."
View all Testimonials"Great service, highly recommend!! I had a severe toothache and needed to see someone urgently, I rang and made an emergency appointment and was seen virtually immediately. I was thoroughly…
View all Testimonials"I can highly recommend Dr Himesh Panchal and Dr Karnika Panchal Profesional service and by far the best dentist I have ever been too Thank you very much to you…
View all Testimonials"I saw Dr Panchal who was very quick to put me at ease and explained everything that he and his colleague were doing. I highly recommend to any nervous patients…
View all Testimonials"Dr Karnika Panchal is truly excellent. I had a cosmetic procedure and right from the start, Dr Panchal placed my expectations in the heart of everything she did. She listened…
View all Testimonials"I had a wicked toothache and rang Dental Care for an appointment. Although unable to see me on the same day I had the consultation the following morning. All the…
View all Testimonials