Will Teeth Whitening Make My Teeth Sensitive?

Red-haired young woman in a pale green shirt cringes in pain and touches her cheeks due to sensitive teeth

A bright smile can greatly enhance your self-confidence and leave a lasting impression on others. However, concerns about tooth sensitivity often arise when patients consider their teeth whitening options. Are you curious about teeth whitening and whether or not it could cause you to experience tooth sensitivity?

Sensitivity After Teeth Whitening

While it is true that some individuals may experience tooth sensitivity during or after the whitening process, that’s not always the case. If it does happen, the sensitivity is typically mild and subsides within a few days.

It is important to note that modern teeth whitening procedures have advanced significantly, with many professional methods incorporating desensitizing agents and precise timing to minimize discomfort.

How to Deal with Sensitive Teeth After Teeth Whitening

While professional teeth whitening is safe and can help manage sensitivity, there are also ways to encourage less tooth sensitivity after whitening. For example, use anti-sensitivity toothpaste and avoid very hot or cold food and drinks for several days. Also, temporarily avoid using an electric toothbrush that can place more pressure on your teeth and use a soft-bristled toothbrush instead!

Benefits of Teeth Whitening

Tooth sensitivity may be uncomfortable, but the benefits of teeth whitening greatly outweigh the temporary discomfort. Some benefits of teeth whitening include:

  • Enhanced Appearance Teeth whitening effectively removes stains and discoloration caused by aging, certain foods, beverages, and lifestyle choices like smoking to reveal a brighter, more youthful smile.
  • Boosted Self-Confidence A radiant smile can significantly improve self-esteem and confidence, allowing individuals to feel more comfortable in social and professional settings.
  • Non-Invasive Procedure Teeth whitening is a non-invasive cosmetic treatment that does not require surgery or extensive preparation. It can be performed relatively quickly, providing immediate results.

Professional Teeth Whitening in Littleton, CO

Teeth whitening at the dentist can be a highly effective way to brighten your smile and boost your confidence. Although tooth sensitivity may occur in some cases, it can be managed with the help of our team. If you’re ready to explore what teeth whitening can do for you, please contact us to learn more!

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Summit Family Dentistry

Summit Family Dentistry