Everyone loves a brilliantly white smile from professional or DIY teeth whitening products, but a beautiful grin is often accompanied by a dose of sensitivity. While chemicals in whitening products can irritate nerves and cause oral discomfort, the sensation usually goes away on its own. If you want to continue using teeth whitening treatments without extended sensitivity, review the following tips for reducing this side effect.

Enjoy a dazzling smile free from tooth pain by taking the following steps:

• Brush Your Teeth Before Treatment: Brush your teeth before using an at-home whitening kit or receiving professional treatment by your dentist, not directly after. Bleaching agents penetrate your teeth to increase their porosity, so brushing afterward opens these pores to cause sensitivity.
• Reduce Cold Food & Beverage Consumption: Cut back on the number of cold foods and drinks you consume to avoid extra irritation and pain. Drink room-temperature water and stay away from chilly treats such as ice cream.
• Rinse Your Mouth: Rinse your mouth after every teeth whitening treatment so the chemicals don’t remain on your smile any longer than they should. Ask your dentist if a pH-balancing mouthwash is necessary based on the severity and length of your sensitivity symptoms.
• Use Products Infrequently: Avoid using teeth whitening products too often, as overuse can make your teeth even more sensitive and potentially result in permanent damage. Discuss a whitening schedule with your dentist for the best results.
• Purchase Special Toothpaste: Clean your teeth with toothpaste that’s specially designed for sensitivity issues. Apply the paste to a soft-bristled brush and use a gentle motion to prevent additional aggravation.

Consider professional teeth whitening over home kits, as your dentist will take extra care to stop bleaching products from irritating your gums and tooth nerves.

Obtain the white smile you want by working with the dentists at The Dental Clinic at Stuttgart, AR. This premier dental office has proudly served area residents for over 15 years, and they use the latest technologies to keep their patients’ teeth healthy and beautiful. Call (870) 551-3836 to schedule an appointment or visit the website for more information.