Teeth are made of enamel, a hard substance. Its hardness falls somewhere between that of steel and titanium. Still, the white tooth covering can stain over years of living. If you are interested in getting rid of teeth stains but wondering, “Does professional teeth whitening cause sensitivity to teeth,” you are in luck. We can assure you that although the process may cause some sensitivity for some time, it will pass with time. Learn more about teeth whitening services and the occurrence of sensitive teeth after whitening by contacting Dental Designs of Maryland – White Marsh, MD.
If you know someone who has experienced sensitive teeth after teeth whitening, you should know that there are specific causes for this sensitivity and numerous ways to take care of it. At Dental Designs of Maryland – White Marsh, MD, we can help you with any discomfort you may be experiencing. To get in touch with our staff, call us today at 410.834.4284.
Can Teeth Whitening Cause Sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity is considered a common side effect of the professional whitening process. The dentinal microtubules send messages from the outer tooth to the nerves inside. Teeth have sensors because they can feel things while chewing. Teeth need to sense heat, cold, and pressure to help you avoid harm. However, the products used to whiten teeth weaken those dentinal microtubules a little.
During the whitening process, your teeth’s normal sensitivity is momentarily amplified. Fortunately, your discomfort will not last long because your teeth will heal. Dentists recommend fluoride toothpaste after whitening to restore the minerals in your teeth. As your teeth regain minerals and thus strength, they return to prior levels of normal sensitivity, undoing the effects of the whitening products. It only takes a few days to regain normal sensitivity, although it can take a few weeks for those with already sensitive teeth.
How to Desensitize Your Teeth after Whitening
When you leave the dentist’s office, you will follow some tips for alleviating the sensitivity that the procedure causes to your teeth. Some of the suggestions that you will want to follow include:
- Avoid very hot or very cold food and drink for a few days
- Skip the electric toothbrush for a while so your sensitivity isn’t exacerbated by the vibrations
- Use a soft or extra-soft toothbrush to protect sensitive teeth
- Use fluoride toothpaste as well as a fluoride rinse in order to rebuild and strengthen your teeth
- Try a special toothpaste for tooth sensitivity
If you already have somewhat sensitive teeth, be sure to tell your dentist. It does not mean you cannot have your teeth whitened. It just means your dentist may adjust the treatment by going more slowly and decreasing the strength of the whitening products. Rest assured, there are ways to manage your sensitivity reaction to teeth whitening.
Does teeth whitening cause sensitivity? The answer is “yes, but.” Your dentist can help you shorten your period of sensitivity, minimize your experience of soreness, and help your teeth return to full strength. Reach out to us as you grapple with the decision to whiten or not to whiten.
Call Dental Designs of Maryland – White Marsh, MD, to Schedule an Appointment for Our Teeth Whitening Services
When you reach out to us, we will answer the question, “Does teeth whitening cause sensitivity?” Better yet, we will provide you with information about how we will minimize that experience and how you can speed up the healing process after whitening. Our goal at Dental Designs of Maryland – White Marsh, MD, is to provide you with the most professional experience with as little discomfort and stress as humanly possible. We are a premier dental practice where our commitment to providing a superb dental experience guides our care.
Our patients report positive experiences during which they felt safe and cared for. Our approach is based on honesty, compassion, and ethical treatment planning. We will always inform you of possible side effects, such as sensitivity in teeth after whitening, and provide you with evidence-based solutions. Contact us online with any questions, or call us at 410.834.4284 to schedule your teeth whitening appointment.