Having a brighter smile is what many people dream of. Being able to show off your pearly whites with confidence allows for improved mental and emotional well-being. With so many beneficial aspects of teeth whitening, it’s no surprise that millions of people turn to it when their teeth become dulled and yellow over time. But with it also comes tooth sensitivity depending on the products a person is using. Read on to discover how to avoid this unfortunate side effect and why professional treatment is best.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
Teeth whitening is not always the sole cause of tooth sensitivity. Worn-down tooth enamel or another dental problem could be the culprit. However, using over-the-counter whitening trays, strips, gels, and pens is often tied to painful results experienced by many individuals.
The reason this occurs is that peroxide-based whitening agents tend to remove minerals from the enamel. This exposes the underlying dentin layer, which is known to be much more sensitive, resulting in discomfort when exposed to hot or cold temperatures.
A person may notice this more frequently when they breathe in cold air, brush their teeth, attempt to eat hot or cold foods, or consume acidic or sour items.
Ways to Avoid Tooth Sensitivity
To avoid tooth sensitivity, there are steps a person can take to minimize pain and still reap the benefits of a whiter, brighter smile. These include:
- Brushing with toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth
- Stopping over-the-counter whitening treatments until the sensitivity subsides
- Inquire about desensitizing treatment options from a dentist
- Use a lower-concentration whitening gel
- Spread out whitening treatments
Why Professional Teeth Whitening is the Right Choice
Receiving professional teeth whitening from a trusted cosmetic dentist will likely lead to more positive results, leaving you with little to no sensitivity. The reason is that the products used by dentists are professional-grade and safe to use.
A cosmetic dentist will provide step-by-step instructions to ensure that the appropriate amount of whitening gel is used as well as craft customized trays that fit snugly against teeth. This reduces the chances of gum irritation caused by whitening products.
If a person has stains or discoloration below the enamel’s surface, some sensitivity can occur if the whitening gel reaches the dentin layer. However, by using a soft-bristled toothbrush and desensitizing gel, custom-fit trays, and avoiding extreme food and drink temperatures, the chances of pain or discomfort are significantly reduced.
Before pursuing professional teeth whitening, make sure to discuss your tooth sensitivity with your dentist so that the most successful treatment plan can be prepared. From there, you can enjoy the benefits of a whiter smile without the pain.
About Grand Dental – Lockport
At Grand Dental – Lockport, our cosmetic dentists understand the struggles of tooth sensitivity. Offering professional solutions to brighten smiles, appropriate steps are taken to minimize pain and discomfort while also creating a beautiful appearance. With years of experience providing professional take-home whitening kits, our team is here to help rid teeth of stubborn stains. Visit our website or call (815) 240-8068 to learn how you can get your custom kit today.