Teeth whitening treatments are notorious for causing sensitivity issues, which can be considerably uncomfortable. If you have recently had your teeth whitened and are now experiencing sensitive teeth, there are a few things you can do to help ease the discomfort. Keep on reading for some recommendations on how to deal with teeth sensitivity after whitening treatments…
What are the main causes for discoloration of the teeth?
There are many factors that can contribute to the discoloration of teeth. Some of the most common causes include smoking, certain foods and drinks, and aging.
When it comes to smoking, the nicotine and tar in cigarettes can stick to the teeth and cause them to become yellow or brown. Foods and drinks high in acidity can also cause staining, as they can break down the enamel on the teeth.
As we age, our teeth tend to become darker due to a loss of enamel and changes in the dentin. In addition, some medications can also lead to tooth discoloration. For example, tetracycline antibiotics can cause permanent staining in young children whose teeth are still developing.
Why does teeth whitening cause teeth sensitivity?
Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental procedure that can help to brighten teeth that have been stained by food, drink, or tobacco. While teeth whitening can be an effective way to improve the appearance of your smile, it can also cause temporary teeth sensitivity.
This is because the whitening agents used to bleached teeth can also penetrate the enamel, causing the underlying dentin to become exposed. When this happens, the nerves in the teeth can become irritated, leading to sensitivity. Fortunately, there are a few ways to help reduce this side effect.
How to deal with teeth sensitivity after whitening
It could be that you’re using teeth whitening treatments too often
If you’re looking to achieve a brighter smile, teeth whitening treatments can be an effective way to do so. However, it’s important to be aware that using these treatments too often can actually make your teeth more sensitive.
This is because the bleaching agents in the whitening kit treatments can cause the enamel on your teeth to thin. As a result, your teeth may become more susceptible to temperature changes and other stimuli, once you’ve got whitened teeth.
If you experience increased sensitivity after using a whitening treatment, it’s best to give your teeth a break for a while before trying again. By doing so, you can help to avoid further damage, dentin hypersensitivity, and keep your smile looking its best.
Try using a desensitizing toothpaste or mouthwash to help soothe the pain
Consider using a desensitizing toothpaste, specific tooth sensitivity toothpaste, or a mouthwash, to relieve your tooth sensitivity issues from teeth whitening treatments. These types of toothpaste products work by filling in the exposed pores in your teeth, which can help to reduce sensitivity – and stop you from making your tooth sensitivity worse.
Use a straw when drinking acidic, cold drinks or hot beverages
If you have sensitive teeth, then you know how painful it can be to drink hot drink cold beverages or acidic beverages. The good news is that there are some simple steps you can take to minimize the discomfort.
One of them is to use a straw when drinking acidic or hot drinks. This helps to avoid direct contact between the drink and your teeth, which can reduce sensitivity. Additionally, it’s important to consume acidic and hot beverages in moderation. Plus, cold foods can also have the same effect, with sensitivity after teeth whitening.
Too much exposure can damage the tooth enamel, making your teeth even more sensitive. With a little care, you can enjoy your favorite drinks without having to worry about tooth pain.
Rinse with cold water after eating or drinking something acidic – or avoid acidic foods and drinks altogether
Anyone who has ever accidentally sipped a bit of lemon juice or taken a swig of soda pop knows the painful sensation of tooth sensitivity. Try rinsing your mouth with cold water after eating or drinking something acidic.
This will help to neutralize the acid and reduce irritation. You can also avoid acidic foods and drinks altogether. While this may seem like a difficult task, there are plenty of delicious and refreshing non-acidic options out there, so you won’t have to sacrifice taste in order to protect your teeth.
Avoid teeth whitening products that contain peroxide
There are a variety of teeth whitening methods available, from at-home kits to professional treatments. However, not all teeth whitening products are created equal in trying to get the perfect white smile.
Some contain an active ingredient of corrosive chemicals, such as hydrogen peroxide, that can damage tooth enamel and lead to sensitivity. Others rely on abrasives that can wear away at tooth enamel over time. If you’re looking for a safe and effective way to whiten your teeth, avoid products that contain peroxide or other harsh chemicals, or have minimal peroxide levels.
Instead, opt for gentle cleansers and polishes that won’t damage your teeth. With regular use, you can achieve noticeable results without putting your oral health at risk.
See your dentist if the sensitivity doesn’t go away after a few weeks
If you experience tooth sensitivity after teeth whitening, it is important to see a dental professional. In most cases, the sensitivity is temporary and will go away within a few weeks.
However, if the sensitivity doesn’t improve or gets worse, it could be a sign of a more serious problem. Your dentist / dental professional will be able to examine your teeth and determine the cause of the sensitivity, and help you by recommending the products you need to treat the sensitivity issues you’re dealing with.
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