If you’re thinking about whitening your teeth in Redmond, you may be worried about your teeth being sensitive after your treatment. But is it really true that teeth whitening causes sensitivity? Find out in this blog from Redmond Art of Dentistry.
TEETH WHITENING MAY CAUSE MINOR SENSITIVITY AFTER YOUR TREATMENT
The short answer is “yes.” Teeth whitening is known to cause minor sensitivity after treatment. This typically lasts for 2-3 days, but can last longer in some patients.
This is thought to be due to the whitening action of the “peroxides” used to whiten your teeth. These compounds whiten your teeth but also weaken your enamel slightly.
This may expose “dentinal microtubules.” These small tubes connect the outside of the tooth to the inner nerve “pulp,” and this is what lets your teeth feel sensations, since the outer layers of the tooth have no nerves of their own.
So immediately after treatment, your teeth may feel hypersensitive. But as time goes on, brushing with fluoride helps strengthen your teeth and eliminates this issue, restoring the normal sensitivity of your teeth.
CAN I GET TEETH WHITENING TREATMENT IF I HAVE SENSITIVE TEETH?
Some people have more naturally sensitive teeth due to thin enamel and other factors. If you struggle with sensitive teeth already, you may think that teeth whitening is not an option for you.
But that’s not the case. Dr. Daniel Bickel is an experienced dentist in Redmond, and he has treated many patients who have sensitive teeth. At Redmond Art of Dentistry, Dr. Bickel will customize your treatment based on your level of sensitivity.
For example, he may schedule multiple whitening appointments so that you can whiten your teeth more gradually, which helps reduce sensitivity. Contact us for more information and to find out how you can whiten your teeth, even if you have problems with tooth sensitivity.
DEALING WITH SENSITIVITY AFTER TEETH WHITENING – OUR RECOMMENDATIONS
If your teeth are feeling very sensitive after your whitening treatment, we recommend taking the following steps:
- Brush regularly & consider anti sensitivity toothpaste – It’s important to keep brushing regularly with fluoride toothpaste. This is because fluoride attracts minerals that strengthen your teeth, and reverse the minor enamel weakening caused by teeth whitening.
You may even want to temporarily switch to Sensodyne or another anti sensitivity toothpaste. These products contain ingredients that help lessen the discomfort of sensitive teeth. - Avoid very hot/cold foods and drinks – Teeth sensitivity can be worsened by very hot or cold foods and drinks, so you should avoid these for a few days until your teeth get back to normal.
- Take some medicine – Over-the-counter medicine like ibuprofen and acetaminophen may help with your sensitivity and discomfort as you recover.
READY TO WHITEN YOUR TEETH? CONTACT REDMOND ART OF DENTISTRY TODAY!
Wondering if teeth whitening is right for you? Dr. Daniel Bickel is here to help. As an experienced cosmetic dentist in Redmond, Dr. Bickel will help you explore all of your options for restoring your smile at Redmond Art of Dentistry. Contact us online or give us a call at (425) 386-7599 to schedule a cosmetic consultation today.