Teeth whitening treatments are a quick and effective way to boost the appearance of your smile as well as your confidence. Unfortunately, these results sometimes come at the cost of tooth sensitivity. Is there a way to comfortably achieve the beautiful pearly whites you’ve always wanted? Here’s what your Tyler dentist wants you to know about the connection between teeth whitening and sensitivity.
How Does Teeth Whitening Work?
Unfortunately, numerous factors like aging, certain foods, and natural wear and tear can dim your smile. To restore your gleaming pearly whites, teeth whitening products use substances that can break up and remove the staining particles in your enamel. Non-bleaching products like whitening toothpastes can remove stains on the surface of your teeth (extrinsic stains). Bleaching products contain more powerful ingredients like hydrogen peroxide that can lift stains that are deep within the enamel (intrinsic stains).
Does Teeth Whitening Cause Tooth Sensitivity?
Underneath your enamel is a layer of dentin. This sensitive material contains thousands of microscopic tubes that become aggravated when exposed to hot or cold temperatures. To lift intrinsic discoloration, bleaching teeth whitening products make your enamel easier to pass through. This increase of permeability slightly reveals your dentin, which triggers the nerves and causes sensitivity. Thankfully, this uncomfortable sensation is not permanent and should pass quickly.
How Can I Prevent Tooth Sensitivity from Teeth Whitening?
The best way to protect yourself from tooth sensitivity when whitening your teeth is to get a professional treatment from your dentist. Your dentist is highly trained to safely apply professional-grade teeth whitening products. They may offer options like Spa Dent or Opalescence whitening kits, which contain special ingredients that work to prevent sensitivity. However, they’ll first inspect your mouth for oral health issues that may cause teeth whitening to be uncomfortable for you, like:
- Tooth decay
- Damaged teeth
- Gum disease
If any of these problems are discovered, your dentist can help you get your oral health back on track so your whitening treatment is as comfortable as possible.
Having a beautiful set of pearly whites doesn’t have to be painful! If you want a brighter smile but are concerned about tooth sensitivity, talk to your dentist about which treatment might be right for you.
About the Author
Instead of relying on store-bought products for a better smile, call our talented team at Stansbury Dental in Tyler, TX for professional results! Dr. Dennis E. Stansbury has over 44 years of experience and is an active member of notable organizations like the American Dental Association, the Texas Dental Association, the Smith County Dental Society, and several more. He is proud to offer his patients a variety of both in-office and at-home teeth whitening treatments, including Spa Dent and Opalescence to prevent sensitive teeth. If you have more concerns about tooth sensitivity or teeth whitening treatments, feel free to contact him via his website or at (903) 561-1122.