Professional teeth whitening can give your smile a noticeably brighter appearance, but some people experience temporary tooth sensitivity afterward. You may notice a sharp sensation when drinking something cold, eating hot foods, or breathing in cool air. Fortunately, whitening-related sensitivity is usually temporary. Here are 3 ways to make your teeth more comfortable while your smile settles in.
1. Choose Foods and Drinks Carefully
Your teeth may be more sensitive immediately after whitening, so it can help to avoid extremely hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks for a short period.
For example, you may want to temporarily skip ice-cold beverages, hot coffee, citrus fruits, soda, and other acidic foods. These can trigger discomfort in sensitive teeth.
Instead, choose foods and drinks that are closer to room temperature. Drinking water throughout the day can also help rinse your mouth and support good oral health.
If you’re using a whitening product at home, follow the manufacturer’s or your dentist’s instructions carefully. Using whitening products more frequently or leaving them on longer than recommended can increase irritation and sensitivity.
2. Use Products Designed for Sensitive Teeth
A toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth may help reduce discomfort. Many sensitivity toothpastes contain ingredients that help block pathways through the teeth that transmit sensations to the nerves.
Brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush, especially if your teeth and gums feel tender after whitening. Brushing more aggressively won’t make your teeth whiter and can irritate your gums or contribute to enamel wear.
Your dentist may also recommend additional products or treatments if you experience significant sensitivity following professional whitening.
3. Give Your Teeth a Break
One of the simplest ways to manage whitening sensitivity is to give your teeth time to recover. Avoid immediately repeating whitening treatments if your teeth are already uncomfortable.
If you’re whitening at home, follow the recommended treatment schedule rather than trying to speed up your results. If you’re receiving professional whitening, your dentist can tell you how frequently treatment should be performed based on your individual needs.
It’s also worth remembering that sensitivity isn’t always caused by whitening. Cavities, gum recession, cracked teeth, worn enamel, and other dental problems can cause sensitivity as well.
Mild sensitivity after teeth whitening is generally temporary, but persistent, severe, or worsening pain shouldn’t be ignored. Contact your dentist if discomfort continues or interferes with eating and drinking.
About the Author
Dr. Ben Omrani has been providing patients with dedicated, personalized care for more than 2 decades with a relaxed, easygoing personality. He enjoys getting to know people and that there is always something new to learn in the dental field. If you’d like whiter teeth, it’s just one appointment away! Make an appointment with Dr. Omrani and his team online or call their San Juan Capistrano office at (949) 661-2052.