Teeth whitening isn’t just a cosmetic procedure. It can drastically improve your dental health, paving the way to better hygiene. But is teeth whitening painful? Does teeth whitening hurt? It’s a question that recalls the whimsical old-fashioned saying, “Beauty is pain.” But at Dental Designs of Maryland – White Marsh, MD, beauty and dazzling smiles are far from pain—they’re comfort.
Call us today at 410.834.4284 to find out how our teeth whitening services can give you that thousand-watt smile that celebrity websites are always raving about.
Does Teeth Whitening Hurt? Dispelling the Myth That “Beauty Is Pain”
It’s natural for patients to have concerns about pain and discomfort. In this blog, we’ll address common fears and questions surrounding teeth whitening. We’ll also discuss the whitening process itself and how to minimize any potential discomfort.
Is Teeth Whitening Painful?
Teeth whitening can involve mild discomfort, but it’s very rarely significantly painful. Factors that might result in a higher degree of soreness or tenderness include the following:
- Pre-existing conditions – If you have naturally sensitive teeth or existing dental issues, you might be more prone to discomfort.
- Methodology – The intensity and type of whitening agents used can affect sensitivity. This is usually not a concern in the modern world, however, as dentists have access to state-of-the-art technology and pain control techniques.
- Consistency of care – If you don’t follow aftercare instructions correctly, there is potential for discomfort and heightened sensitivity. But because your aftercare program will be tailored specifically to your own dental history, sensitivity threshold, and pain tolerance, there is little reason to worry.
To sum it up, if you ask yourself, “Does whitening your teeth hurt?” or “Does professional teeth whitening hurt?” you’re asking two different questions. “Professional” is the key word. An expertly trained staff will always know how to care for patients. Dental Designs of Maryland – White Marsh, MD has a stellar reputation and dentists who genuinely care and understand their work.
How Is Teeth Whitening Done?
Believe it or not, teeth whitening has a long history. In the past, abrasive materials like pumice were used, along with acidic substances like vinegar. Nowadays, the process is usually done by applying a peroxide-based gel. This is often combined with a light-activated LED laser system to make the bleaching process more effective.
How Do Dentists Reduce Pain Before and After a Teeth Whitening Procedure?
Dentists have many ways of reducing pain associated with teeth whitening procedures. Some of these include:
- Pre-whitening desensitizers – These are applied before the whitening treatment to block pain transmission
- Custom-fitted trays – Dental molds, which are custom-designed to fit over a patient’s teeth, greatly reduce the likelihood of whitening gel coming into contact with and irritating the gums
- Using finer concentrations of whitening agents – Lowering the concentration of certain whitening agents can reduce discomfort without significantly compromising results
- Advising patients to avoid certain foods or liquids – For 48 hours after a whitening procedure, teeth will be especially sensitive. Dentists might advise avoiding citrusy or pickled foods, which can sting. They might also recommend avoiding coffee, red wine, and dark sauces, which can cause staining
- Unique oral hygiene routines – A dentist will likely recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a special toothpaste. They might also prescribe a fluoride rinse that can help strengthen enamel, offering added protection against sensitivity
In other words, dentists and patients can work together to manage pain. It’s a collaborative effort that can result in great peace of mind.
Call Dental Designs of Maryland – White Marsh, MD to Schedule a Tooth Whitening Procedure Today
Even patients who take excellent care of their teeth are subject to dental issues like staining and discoloration. This is a natural and inevitable process, simply part of the passing of time. The good news is that it is possible to turn back the clock. After all, what’s not to love about a beautiful smile? There’s no time like the present to put the “pearly” back in the term “pearly whites.”
To find out more about how teeth whitening services can change your life, reach out to the friendly, expert staff at Dental Designs of Maryland – White Marsh now. Contact us online or call us at 410.834.4284 today.