Teeth Whitening and Sensitivity

Teeth whitening is an excellent treatment as people ask for brighter, more dazzling smiles.

While this cosmetic procedure can be highly effective, one common side effect that many individuals experience is tooth sensitivity.

We get asked this daily – I want to whiten my teeth, but I’ve tried, and it’s so sensitive.

So why – and how can you prevent it.

The Mechanism Behind Teeth Sensitivity:

1. Tooth Structure: To understand why teeth become sensitive during whitening, it’s essential to grasp the basic structure of a tooth. A tooth consists of enamel, the hard, protective outer layer, and dentin, a more sensitive layer beneath the enamel. The dentin contains microscopic tubules leading to the tooth’s nerve centre.
2. Bleaching Agents: Teeth whitening typically involves bleaching agents, most commonly hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These agents penetrate the enamel and break down stains, leading to a whiter appearance. This can cause sensitivity.
3. Sensitivity Trigger: The sensitivity experienced during teeth whitening can be attributed to the penetration of these bleaching agents through the enamel and into the dentin. Once inside the dentin, the nerve endings can be stimulated, leading to discomfort or pain. Additionally, the dehydration of the tooth structure caused by the whitening process can contribute to sensitivity. It’s the dehydration that I think causes the pain or ZINGERS after whitening.

Dehydration of teeth is common during teeth whitening procedures involving whitening agents like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. This dehydration is primarily caused by the chemical properties and the mechanisms involved in the whitening process:

1. Chemical Interaction: Whitening agents, such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, are strong oxidizing agents. They work by breaking down and oxidizing the coloured compounds that cause stains on the teeth. These agents release oxygen molecules, which penetrate the enamel and react with the pigmented molecules in the dentin, effectively bleaching and lighting the tooth’s colour.
2. Removal of Water: In oxidizing and breaking down the pigment molecules, these whitening agents remove water molecules from the tooth structure. This dehydrates the enamel and dentin, leaving the tooth temporarily less hydrated than in its natural state.
3. Dehydration and Tooth Sensitivity: Dehydration can increase tooth sensitivity because it exposes the microscopic tubules in the dentin. These tubules are typically filled with fluid that acts as a protective barrier, insulating the nerve endings within the tooth from external stimuli. When the tooth becomes dehydrated, these tubules become more exposed, making it easier for external factors like temperature or pressure to stimulate the nerve endings, resulting in heightened sensitivity.

It’s important to note that teeth dehydration is usually a temporary effect of teeth whitening, and the tooth’s natural hydration level will typically be restored over time as the tooth rehydrates. However, during this period, individuals may experience increased sensitivity.

To mitigate the effects of dehydration and the associated sensitivity during teeth whitening, it is essential to follow the guidelines and recommendations provided by your dentist or the product manufacturer. Using desensitizing toothpaste, custom-fit trays, lower peroxide concentrations, and shorter treatment durations, as mentioned in the previous response, can help manage sensitivity and minimize the impact of dehydration on your teeth. Additionally, the use of post-whitening desensitizing gels can aid in reducing sensitivity and promoting the rehydration of the teeth.

Reducing Teeth Sensitivity During Teeth Whitening:

1. Use Desensitizing Toothpaste: Before starting a tooth whitening regimen, consider using a desensitizing toothpaste containing ingredients like potassium nitrate or fluoride. This can help reduce sensitivity by blocking the nerve endings in the dentin. We can help and advise.
2. Lower Peroxide Concentrations: Consider using teeth whitening products with lower peroxide concentrations. While this may require more extended treatment, it can be gentler on your teeth and reduce sensitivity. We have solutions.

WE LOVE ENLIGHTEN

1. Shorter Treatment Duration: Limit the amount of time you wear whitening trays. Overusing them can lead to more sensitivity.
2. Custom-Fit Trays: Invest in custom-fit whitening trays made by your dentist. These trays minimize contact between the bleaching agent and your gums, reducing the risk of sensitivity.
3. Intermittent Use: Rather than consecutive days of treatment, consider whitening your teeth every other day or as per your dentist’s recommendations. This gives your teeth time to recover between sessions.
4. Please Consult a Professional: It’s essential to consult a dentist before beginning teeth whitening treatment. They can assess your dental health and recommend the most suitable whitening method.
5. Desensitizing Gel: Some whitening kits have desensitizing gels that can be applied after whitening. These gels can help reduce sensitivity and protect your teeth.
6. Avoid Hot and Cold Foods: During and after teeth whitening, try to avoid extremely hot or cold foods and beverages, as they can exacerbate sensitivity. Stick to room temperature items.

Teeth sensitivity during teeth whitening with trays is a common side effect, but it can be managed and reduced through various strategies. By understanding the mechanism behind this sensitivity and following the recommended precautions, you can achieve a brighter smile without enduring unnecessary discomfort.

Always here to help and advise – Tracey Bell