Achieving a smile full of pearly whites may be difficult and painful for those with sensitive teeth. Shooting pain and sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures may result after bleaching your teeth or using other harsh whitening methods. Here is what you need to know about whitening your sensitive teeth.

WHITENING YOUR SENSITIVE TEETH DOESN’T HAVE TO BE PAINFUL

Why Does Whitening Make Teeth Sensitive?

One of the negative side effects of teeth whitening is the pain it causes to people who have sensitive teeth. Teeth are covered in a hard outer layer called enamel. Ingredients in tooth whitening agents open pores in your enamel and allow the whitening product to enter into the sensitive, inner layer of your teeth. This may cause pain, numbness, and sensitivity to temperatures, so it is important to find the safest way to whiten your teeth.

Professional Treatments

The safest and most efficient way to whiten your sensitive teeth is by visiting your dentist and opting for in-office treatment. Dentists know what is best for your teeth and have the proper tools to reduce the risk of post-treatment sensitivity. Most dentists’ professional treatments use a topical, high-concentration fluoride gel that blocks the opening of pores that form from other whitening products, saving you from pain and sensitivity. A professional treatment may also use a lower concentration of whitening agents. While you will have to leave the product on longer or get multiple treatments, these lower concentrated products will give you the same stunning results while protecting your teeth from sensitivity.

Whitening In-Home

Teeth whitening at home is possible but you must be cautious in order to protect your sensitive teeth. In-home treatments differ from product to product. Pay close attention to the ingredients when selecting a whitening product. Avoid products containing ingredients such as:

• Silica
• Polyethylene
• Propylene glycol
• Sodium hydroxide
• Ammonium hydroxide

These ingredients may cause more harm than good to your pearly whites by eroding enamel, causing greater sensitivity, and irritating your gums. Instead, be sure to choose products that contain ingredients such as potassium nitrate and fluoride. These ingredients will help to prevent tooth sensitivity and pain after your whitening treatment.

Always Ask the Professionals

Regardless of which teeth whitening method you choose, it is always important to talk to your dentist first. He or she will discuss the safest way for you to whiten your teeth, helping you achieve a brighter smile without the pain. Your dentist may also be able to diagnose the cause of your sensitivity and find the proper solution to alleviate the pain.

When it comes to whitening sensitive teeth, a professional will always be helpful in choosing the best treatment option. Talk to your dentist about how you can achieve a brighter and less sensitive smile.