Is Teeth Whitening Safe for Sensitive Teeth? What You Should Know

Gone are the days when you’d have to worry about tooth sensitivity due to teeth whitening. You can now achieve your desired bright smiles within an hour. Grab the attention of everyone around you by undergoing teeth whitening safe for sensitive teeth at your dentist’s office.

But before we dive deep into a discussion on the safest methods to retain a whiter smile, just know that most cases of teeth sensitivity begin at the gum line. It mostly happens due to unmonitored whitening using harsh chemicals. The outcome of such treatments is pain or tooth damage. You can now bid goodbye to such hassles and simply enjoy at least two shades of whiter teeth within 60 minutes. 

Let’s get to know how: 

Why Do Teeth Become Sensitive?

A recent study shows that 1 in every 2 adults struggle with sensitive teeth. The reasons behind such prevalence of painful teeth are: 

• Teeth enamel erosion which exposes dentin. It can lead to severe oral discomfort.
• Gum recession – It exposes tooth roots. The lack of enamel protection on them worsens your tooth pain.
• Tooth decay, fractures, or worn fillings can trigger tooth sensitivity.
• Overconsumption of acidic foods and drinks weakens enamel over time. 

How Whitening Affects Sensitive Teeth?

While we now know the usual reasons behind tooth sensitivity, teeth whitening-induced tooth sensitivity occurs when: 

• Hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide present in whitening gel or trays breaks down teeth stains but irritates your teeth’ nerves.
• Whitening agents can dehydrate tooth enamel which increases sensitivity.
• Abrasive whitening toothpaste can wear down your teeth’ enamel further.
• Overuse of whitening products can weaken your teeth enamel and cause you constant discomfort.

Safe Whitening Options for Sensitive Teeth

The idolization of white teeth has led people to opt for random off-the-shelf whitening treatments. But unprescribed whitening gel, trays, or strips can harm your teeth. If you want to skip this inconvenience, you must book teeth whitening safe for sensitive teeth, such as: 

• Professional Whitening: Amidst the widespread appeal of teeth whitening, nothing comes close to the efficacy of GLO whitening treatment. It protects you from the adverse effects of bleach and uses gentle LED light to whiten your teeth. 
• Dentist-Approved At-Home Whitening Kits: If you are more comfortable with at-home treatments or want to maintain your white teeth longer after in-office treatment, GLO Chairside Whitening treatment is ideal for you. 

Tips to Reduce Sensitivity When Whitening

You can follow a few more steps to get rid of sensitive teeth: 

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush 
• Steer clear of acidic foods and drinks before and after whitening
• Schedule your whitening treatments following a gap of 6 months to allow enamel recovery

Alternative Ways to Brighten Sensitive Teeth

You can also lift your dental look by:

• Booking professional teeth cleanings to remove surface stains without chemicals
• Using an antimicrobial mouthwash to rinse the mouth 
• Eliminating foods and drinks that stain teeth

Teeth whitening is possible even with sensitivity, but choosing the right method is key. It’s best to consult a local dentist for personalized teeth whitening advice.