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Compared to at-home solutions, dentist-provided teeth whitening typically produces better results—and reduced sensitivity. However, if you have particularly sensitive teeth, the bleaching process could increase the potential for temporary irritation after treatment. Fortunately, if you’re looking for a way to brighten your smile, there are a few ways you can minimize discomfort following your appointment.

3 Ways to Minimize Sensitivity After Teeth Whitening

1. Using Specialized Toothpaste

Professional teeth whitening works by opening up small pores in the enamel surface, so that bleaching agents can work to remove stains. However, these pores can remain open for several days after treatment, making nervous tissue within the tooth more sensitive to items, like cold and hot temperatures or sweets. Desensitizing toothpaste help prevent this reaction by gently numbing these nerves for a limited time. Using these products before and after treatment could help the severity of your reaction.  

2. Avoiding Triggers After Whitening

teeth whiteningIf you know that you’re at risk for tooth sensitivity, it’s best to avoid items that may trigger a reaction after whitening treatment. In general, people find that its best to avoid hot and cold drinks, as these extreme temperatures can aggravate nerves within teeth. Other potential triggers to avoid include sugary snacks, acidic foods, and harsh brushing activity.

3. Adjusting the Treatment Plan

While sensitivity is often no cause for concern, it’s always a good idea to have a comprehensive dental exam before teeth whitening. This check-up will allow your dentist to look for other reasons you may experience discomfort—such as cavities or gum disease. If these problems are treated prior to bleaching, sensitivity can be greatly reduced.

If you have particularly sensitive teeth, your dentist can customize your whitening treatment to minimize your exposure to bleaching agents. For example, you might opt for several short sessions over one standard treatment that may last anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour.

 

When it comes to enhancing your smile in the most stress-free way possible, Premier Dental is a leading choice for professional teeth whitening in London, KY. Led by Dr. Terri Brown DMD, this clinic uses advanced whitening treatments to ensure maximum results with minimal sensitivity. In addition to cosmetic dentistry services, this provider can reliably identify and treat oral health issues that may contribute to discomfort—such as tooth decay and infection. To learn more about their approach to comfortable care, visit this dental office online. For appointments, call a friendly team member at (606) 877-3002.

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