Having a white and stain-free smile can help to boost your self-confidence. This can be easily achieved by undergoing teeth whitening treatment and using the teeth whitening products available in the market.
Most whitening products that one could buy in the past used to contain ingredients that could actually damage your teeth and cause tremendous sensitivity. These products have significantly improved with time and now use much gentler ingredients for your teeth.
As mentioned before, teeth whitening is a simple dental procedure that can be accomplished both at your home and at a dental office. The only prominent con of teeth whitening is the teeth sensitivity one faces after the treatment. This blog will discuss teeth sensitivity, how the whitening process can cause it, and the practical tips to reduce the symptoms.
What Can Cause Teeth Sensitivity?
People who suffer from tooth sensitivity experience a rush or wave of pain in response to hot or cold foods and beverages. It is unknown why undergoing teeth whitening leads to sensitivity in teeth.
However, peroxide is one of the key components in most tooth-whitening products that can weaken the tooth enamel. This ultimately exposes the middle layer of the teeth, known as the dentist, and causes tooth sensitivity.
If you already suffer from tooth sensitivity and are considering whitening your teeth, you might want to think twice because it could aggravate your sensitivity. There are various ways to deal with such an issue and still allow yourself to achieve a perfect and flawless smile.
Know The Tips To Reduce Teeth Sensitivity
Adopting a few measures can reduce the teeth sensitivity you can face after getting your teeth whitened. We have provided practical tips to follow in the section below.
Follow the instructions
It's crucial to carefully follow all the instructions, whether they come from your dentist or the manufacturer of over-the-counter products, when using a professional product. You should whiten your teeth for longer than recommended.
Try to cut back
Giving your teeth a short break between whitening treatments can often help to alleviate symptoms. You should try cutting back to every-other-day treatments if the sensitivity starts to develop. Also, make sure to apply the whitening products for shorter spans.
You need to get pain relievers beforehand
Taking a pain reliever like Advil (ibuprofen) or Aleve (naproxen) before the whitening solution can help lessen or prevent discomfort.
Always choose a product with less peroxide
While you might think that a higher peroxide level might help get a better outcome, it is not worth the pain you may experience. Check if you are using a product with a lower peroxide level (a level of 6% to 10% peroxide is considered low for most people).
Limit the intake of cold drinks and food items
Whitening can actually exacerbate sensitivity problems. Limiting extremely cold or extremely hot foods and beverages helps reduce your discomfort during the treatment.
You should not overuse whitening products
It's essential to follow instructions and not leave whitening products on your teeth longer than advised. However, it is also crucial to refrain from utilizing them for more treatment sessions than necessary. This might harm your teeth or make them extremely sensitive.
Use fluoride mouthwashes or sensitivity toothpaste
These products can lessen the symptoms and also protect sensitive teeth. Going for fluoride treatments can also be recommended before, during, or after you whiten your teeth.
It is recommended to use a soft-bristled toothbrush
Using a toothbrush with soft bristles is gentler on your teeth and gums. It can be an effective way to reduce the symptoms of suffering from tooth sensitivity.
Consult your dentist
You should always contact a dentist near you if your sensitivity problems persist or worsen while undergoing a whitening procedure. Sensitivity may be a sign of a more severe issue, such as receding gums or cavities.
We hope you have now gained a better understanding of the ways to cope with the problem of teeth sensitivity after undergoing a teeth whitening treatment. Give us a call to schedule your appointment if you are looking for top-quality teeth whitening service in Pittsburgh, PA. We are always here to assist you in every way possible.