Virtually everyone wishes they could have a bright, white smile. If you’ve been struggling with dental stains or discoloration, then you might be considering undergoing teeth whitening to upgrade your appearance. However, if you’ve heard that sensitivity is common after this procedure, you might hesitate to move forward. Here are a few ways that you can reduce your chances of experiencing discomfort after brightening your smile.
Sensitivity After Teeth Whitening Is Often Temporary
Teeth whitening treatment involves utilizing special bleaching products that are designed to enter the microscopic pores in the tooth enamel where they break up pigment molecules. This process, however, potentially makes it easier for other particles to penetrate the enamel and causes the dentin (the second layer of the teeth) to be more vulnerable to external stimuli. This can result in mild discomfort when ingesting cold, hot, or acidic foods.
That said, this sensitivity is typically short-lived as the microscopic pores usually revert to their normal condition. This means any potential mild discomfort from teeth whitening will fade away in time.
How to Minimize Dental Sensitivity
While tooth sensitivity might occur after you’ve brightened your smile, some formulas are meant to reduce this risk. These specific products usually consist of ingredients that help decrease the chances of sensitivity by protecting the enamel and relaxing the nerves inside your teeth. Dentists who offer professional teeth whitening treatment often use these desensitizing solutions. When visiting yours, make sure to let them know if you have a history of tooth sensitivity so they can keep this in mind for your procedure.
You can also minimize dental discomfort after teeth whitening by keeping an eye on the foods you consume. Try to avoid eating things that can irritate your results, such as:
- Cold meals, like ice cream and cold drinks
- Hot items, such as tea and coffee
- Highly acidic items, like soda and citrus fruits
- Hard foods, such as almonds or nuts
More comfortable options that can minimize sensitivity include:
- Eggs
- Mashed potatoes
- Cheese
- Bananas
- White rice
- Soft bread
- Ground chicken
One of the surest ways to reduce the risk of dental sensitivity after teeth whitening is by seeking treatment from a dentist so that they can use professional-grade products that are safer for your smile. By sticking to the above dietary choices, you’ll be able to minimize discomfort while also ensuring that your dazzling results remain nice and bright!
About the Practice
At Artistry Smile Center, our team wants to ensure that patients receive the best quality care possible when treating and improving their smiles. We provide a wide range of treatment options, including professional teeth whitening that’s both effective and safe. If you wish to learn more about this cosmetic procedure or want to schedule an initial consultation, visit our website or contact our office at 614-451-7393.