Sensitive Teeth After Whitening: Causes & Solutions
Teeth whitening has grown immensely in popularity, with many people drawn to the allure of a whiter, brighter smile.
The options are vast, from over-the-counter products to professional in-office treatments.
The process can be transformative, helping to eliminate years of staining from coffee, wine, and other lifestyle factors.
However, the journey to whiter teeth can be uncomfortable despite the appeal.
One of the most common side effects is tooth sensitivity, which affects many people after a whitening procedure.
This sensitivity can make everyday tasks like eating or drinking uncomfortable, especially with hot or cold foods.
Anyone considering this cosmetic treatment must understand the causes of tooth sensitivity after whitening and strategies to prevent and manage it.
What is Tooth Sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity refers to short, sharp, sudden pain or discomfort extending to the tooth’s nerve endings.
This annoyance is common among many who use hot and cold foods or beverages or come into contact with cold air.
People with teeth whitened are known to have significantly increased teeth sensitivity after the process.
A tooth is not a simple structure; it has different layers. The outermost layer, known as tooth enamel, shields the tooth’s other delicate areas.
The chemical composition of enamel also makes it the hardest substance in the human body. It protects the inner layers from heat, acidic foods, etc.
Nonetheless, bleaching agents, including hydrogen peroxide, used in whitening gels and other products, have the potential to hone into this enamel during the treatment process.
Dentin sensitivity occurs when tooth enamel is worn, chipped, or eroded; this part is sensitive when exposed.
Understanding the importance of enamel can prevent people from having sensitive teeth after whitening and keep up with white teeth without dealing with pain.
Why Does Whitening Cause Sensitivity?
The process of teeth whitening, whether carried out at a dental office or using over-the-counter teeth whitening products, primarily involves the application of bleaching agents like hydrogen peroxide.
These agents are potent and effective in penetrating the tooth enamel to remove stains and deliver a brighter smile.
However, this same efficacy in breaking down stains can sometimes temporarily weaken the protective layer of tooth enamel, making it more porous.
As the enamel becomes temporarily compromised during the whitening treatment, the softer inner layer of the tooth, called the dentin, gets exposed. Dentin houses numerous tiny channels that lead directly to the tooth’s nerve endings.
When these nerve endings are exposed to external elements such as hot and cold foods or drinks, they produce sharp, shooting pain known as tooth sensitivity.
While the discomfort of sensitive teeth after whitening can be alarming, it’s crucial to understand that this sensitivity is often temporary.
Most patients find that their teeth sensitivity post-whitening treatments subsides after a few days.
Dental professionals recommend desensitising toothpaste or avoiding extreme temperatures in foods and drinks to reduce sensitivity and ensure a more comfortable post-whitening experience.
Difference Between Natural Sensitivity and Whitening-Induced Sensitivity
Naturally sensitive teeth are a common dental concern for many individuals.
This tooth sensitivity often arises from thin or eroded tooth enamel, gum recession, cavities, or specific dental treatments.
Everyday triggers, such as acidic foods, cold drinks, or even brushing, can lead to sharp, transient pain in these sensitive teeth.
Dental professionals often emphasise maintaining oral hygiene, using soft-bristled toothbrushes, and desensitising toothpaste to manage and prevent sensitive teeth.
On the other hand, sensitivity caused by teeth whitening treatments is primarily due to the temporary effect of the bleaching agents used in the whitening gels or products. These agents, such as hydrogen peroxide, penetrate the tooth enamel to whiten and remove stains.
While this results in a brighter smile, it can sometimes make the tooth enamel more porous, leading to temporary sensitivity.
Unlike natural sensitivity, which can be a persistent issue, whitening-induced sensitivity is usually short-lived, fading away a few days to weeks after the whitening procedure.
However, both forms of sensitivity can benefit from desensitising toothpaste and avoiding extreme temperatures to reduce discomfort.
Preventing Sensitivity After Whitening
Consulting a dentist before starting teeth-whitening procedures is essential; this will help carry out preliminary tests.
Ensure there are no current dental issues, such as cavities or irritation of the gums, as these only worsen the teeth’s sensitivity after the whitening process.
Teeth whitening performed by a dentist at a dental clinic tends to be preferred to over-the-counter whitening products.
A dentist will use professional whitening gel and techniques that are safe for tooth enamel and thus prevent possible side effects.
People who opt to use at-home whitening kits must ensure that they reduce the number of times they whiten their teeth.
Some possible side effects include over-whitening of the teeth, which may increase tooth sensitivity.
Finally, to avoid sensitive teeth after whitening, desensitising toothpaste and paste should be used before and after the whitening treatment.
This toothpaste helps to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent sensitivity, enabling a brilliant smile without pain.
Managing Sensitive Teeth Post-Whitening
If you have some sensitive teeth after the whitening process, it is advisable to take measures that will reduce any discomfort.
Firstly, toothpaste is recommended for sensitive teeth. This toothpaste desensitises the teeth’ nerve endings, providing immediate relief for teeth sensitivity.
Another thing that can be done is brushing gently using a soft, BPA-free toothbrush or any soft toothbrush. Brushing becomes painful with a regular brush, but soft bristles prevent tooth enamel and gum from inflaming.
It is essential not to take foods and beverages to the extremities. Sensitive teeth respond to colder and hotter foods, resulting in sharp pain.
It is better not to drink something that can be served and consumed ice-cold or at a warm temperature while the sensitivity lasts.
And to some, the pain gets unbearable, to the extent that they cannot stand it any longer.
Non-prescription drugs, such as ibuprofen before meals, may help control the pain related to teeth sensitivity if used as advised.
Finally, if you experience tooth sensitivity after whitening that lasts for weeks or if its severity is high compared to your previous experiences, you should see a dentist.
However, a dental professional can determine whether something is wrong and if there are solutions that can ensure that getting a brighter smile does not mean enduring pain for longer than necessary.
Other Potential Side Effects of Teeth Whitening
While many people desire a brighter smile through teeth whitening treatments, other potential side effects exist.
One of the main culprits is gum irritation. Often caused by whitening gels or bleaching agents coming into contact with the mouth’s soft tissues, this irritation can cause discomfort.
It’s crucial to follow the guidance of a dental professional and use teeth whitening products as directed. If irritation persists, consulting your Northbridge dentist is paramount.
Another concerning side effect is enamel erosion. Teeth act as a protective shield for our teeth.
Some teeth-whitening products, especially those with high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide, might weaken this enamel over time.
Weakened tooth enamel increases the risk of tooth sensitivity, especially when consuming hot and cold foods.
Furthermore, it can lead to more significant dental issues in the long run. Opting for professional teeth whitening treatments under a dental office’s guidance is always advisable, as this ensures safety and efficacy.
Sensitive Teeth Management in Northbridge
Teeth whitening, while highly sought after for a dazzling smile, has potential consequences. Being well-informed about these implications is paramount to ensuring oral health isn’t compromised in the quest for pearly whites.
Always prioritise your dental health by consulting a dental professional before and after whitening treatments.
Their skills can guide you toward safe and effective procedures while mitigating potential side effects.
Ready to embark on your teeth whitening journey with confidence?
Visit My Local Dentists today or call us at (02) 9000 1383 to schedule your consultation.
Your radiant smile awaits!
Visit us at Shop 20A Northbridge Plaza, 79-113 Sailors Bay Road in Northbridge.