Looking for teeth-whitening products to improve the appearance of your smile is very common. Such methods will help increase your self-confidence and any first impressions you make will be that much more appealing if your teeth are brighter.
You might be surprised to learn that receiving teeth whitening near you can also lead to tooth sensitivity; in fact, this is the most common side effect that patients experience. As a result, this may cause you to question the safety and reliability of this treatment. However, just because some people have complained of discomfort does not necessarily mean that their teeth have been harmed.
Let’s examine the top tooth-whitening procedures and the best ways to avoid tooth sensitivity.
What is Teeth Whitening Sensitivity?
When the dentin in your teeth becomes overly sensitive, it causes teeth whitening sensitivity. This results in an intensified response to hot and cold beverages, specific foods (particularly sweet foods), and oral touch like brushing. Teeth sensitivity from teeth whitening in Davie may not affect you; it doesn’t happen to everyone. Additionally, the degree of discomfort or post-whitening sensitivity may differ. The intensity of the whitening substance, the condition of your teeth before whitening, and previous whitening operations can all affect how sensitive you are.
Causes of Sensitivity
What are your alternatives for teeth whitening, then? There are, in fact, six fundamental at-home methods for teeth whitening and one professional technique. The most popular choices are described and contrasted below, along with what each provides for the price.
Despite their appearance, your teeth are constructed of a porous substance. That is accurate for both the dentin layer and the outer enamel layer, which make up the majority of the tooth. The bleaching agents permeate into the tooth’s pores throughout the whitening process in order to loosen and break up the dirt that has accumulated there.
If the substances in teeth-whitening treatments, typically hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, come into contact with the nerves in your tooth, they may result in tooth sensitivity. Additionally, these products may increase the sensitivity of the dentin layer’s pores to pain signals, intensifying any existing discomfort.
How to Minimize Sensitivity Before and After Whitening
There are techniques to lessen the negative consequences of teeth whitening, which is excellent news. Consider the following teeth whitening sensitivity advice if you have ever experienced tooth sensitivity from whitening or wish to avoid it in the future:
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Space out your teeth whitening treatments
More time between treatments will help reduce dentin hypersensitivity and increase the likelihood that you will be able to whiten your teeth without experiencing any discomfort.
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Try a different teeth-whitening product
Different teeth whitening products have varying levels of strength. Consider switching to a gentler treatment option to give your teeth a break before employing the one you are currently using if it is making you uncomfortable or sensitive.
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Avoid foods and beverages that boost sensitivity during whitening
Even though you may enjoy your daily cup of coffee, drinking it while you’re whitening your teeth could be uncomfortable. Going too far in the opposite direction might also be problematic. Ice cream and other frozen delights might not be as pleasurable during or right after a whitening procedure. As a general rule, avoid temperature extremes and acidic meals like citrus fruits and juices.
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Reach out to your dentist
The best person to ask about the best teeth whitening procedures and how to use them to reduce sensitivity is always your dentist in Davie.
Find Out If You Should Get Teeth Whitening
Grey or yellow-brown stains on your teeth are typically intrinsic stains, which are found deeper inside the tooth. Although it is most difficult to whiten certain kinds of discoloration, it is nevertheless achievable. Just like with extrinsic stains, the healing process will take longer.
Before choosing to employ teeth whitening strips, gels, trays, or in-office whitening procedures, there are a few more factors you should think about and discuss with your dentist near you. For instance, it’s crucial to keep in mind that whitening won’t harm any dental restorations, including crowns, fillings, and veneers.
Contact Regency Square Dental today if you’re interested in learning more about aesthetic dentistry and whether this treatment is the best option for you and your smile!