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Teeth whitening treatments brighten smiles and make them look cleaner and healthier. However, the bleaching gel can lead to temporary tooth sensitivity. While this discomfort is manageable for most people, it can be a concern for those who already have sensitive teeth. Ed Struss Family Dentistry of Lexington, KY, can enhance your smile without contributing to tooth sensitivity. Here, the dental care team explains how you can make the most of your whitening treatment.

What You Need to Know About Whitening Sensitive Teeth

Avoid At-Home Treatments

Patients with sensitive teeth should avoid over-the-counter whitening products such as strips or trays that require daily use. Prolonged contact with the bleaching agent can increase sensitivity for weeks, causing you to feel uncomfortable for much longer than a professional teeth whitening treatment.

teeth whitening treatment Lexington KYIf you have minor surface staining or discoloration, consider using a whitening toothpaste that is designed for users with sensitive teeth. These products create gradual results and may not produce your desired level of brightness, so ask a cosmetic dentistry provider what you can do to boost the toothpaste’s effects.

Ask the Dentist to Reduce Sensitivity Before a Treatment

Before every in-office teeth whitening, dentists perform an exam. If they see signs of tooth decay, infection, or gum disease, they will address the issue. Taking care of these oral health concerns before whitening can minimize sensitivity.

If the exam doesn’t show any issues, ask the dentist about products you can use to desensitize your teeth. Using a specially formulated toothpaste for a few weeks before the treatment can reduce the effect the bleaching formula has on your nerves. The dentist may also recommend applying a desensitizing gel after the treatment.

Take Steps to Manage Sensitivity at Home

Compared to other teeth whitening treatments, in-office services are the safest and most effective. However, if your teeth are easily aggravated by the treatment, there are a few ways to control the temporary pain. In addition to numbing gels, small doses of ibuprofen can relieve discomfort. Consuming room temperature foods and beverages will also prevent unpleasant reactions.

Whitening sensitive teeth is safe, especially when done under the care and supervision of a cosmetic dentistry expert. Ed Struss Family Dentistry will guide you through the steps of the teeth whitening treatment to identify potential triggers for sensitivity. If whitening isn’t the most appropriate solution for you, this family dentist offers additional solutions for improving smiles, including teeth cleanings and dental crowns. To schedule a consultation, contact the office at (859) 278-7434. Visit the practice on Facebook for more dental tips.

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