Everybody wants a brighter smile, and one way to achieve that is through teeth whitening. To remove staining, however, whitening products have to strip off a protective protein layer from the surface of your teeth. This exposes you to temporary tooth sensitivity right after the procedure.

Temiko G. Braswell DDS PC is a sought-after dentist in Perry, GA, who offers everything from cosmetic to general dentistry for patients of all ages. Here, the practice shares some tips to help patients beat sensitivity after teeth whitening:

• Use A Desensitizing Toothpaste: Ten days before the procedure, patients are encouraged to incorporate a desensitizing toothpaste into their oral health routine. This can help decrease chances of tooth sensitivity by blocking any pain signals coming from your teeth’s inner nerves.
• Avoid Hot & Cold Drinks After Procedure: Since your teeth have less protection after a teeth whitening procedure, it’s easier for extreme temperatures to stimulate your nerves, causing them to send out a signal in the form of a sharp pain. To avoid this, patients are usually advised to stay away from hot or cold drinks until their teeth recover.
• Avoid Acidic Food & Drinks: Acidic foods can also trigger tooth sensitivity and may even cause gum inflammation. It’s best to refrain from eating or drinking anything with a high acid content for at least 48 hours after a whitening session.
• Protect Your Teeth With Fluoride: Using toothpaste with a high fluoride content can help the teeth replenish lost minerals. Once your teeth have fully recovered from all the minerals they lost during the procedure, sensitivity will diminish.
• Visit Your Dentist: If sensitivity persists long after the procedure, you should visit your dentist to determine whether a more intensive treatment is necessary to manage the sensitivity.

These are just some of the most effective tips that can help you beat tooth sensitivity after getting your teeth whitened. If you’re ready to undergo the procedure, book an appointment with Temiko G. Braswell DDS PC. Give her a call at (478) 988-3200 or visit her website to learn more about the services she offers.