Bleaching compounds found in professional teeth whitening solutions are designed to open up pores in the enamel and lift stains. While this process can restore your smile’s vibrancy, it may also temporarily expose dentin—the sensitive interior of the tooth. In general, the resulting sensitivity will dissipate within a few days. However, there are many things you can do to minimize your discomfort after brightening your smile.

Strategies to Minimize Temporary Sensitivity From Teeth Whitening

Use Desensitizing Toothpaste

Pick up a tube of desensitizing toothpaste from your local drugstore and brush with it for two days following your whitening treatment. These products contain unique ingredients—such as potassium nitrate—that penetrate the tooth’s surface to block pain signals. Rinsing with a fluoridated mouthwash can also help strengthen teeth to keep sensitivity at bay. If over-the-counter solutions haven’t worked in the past, ask your dentist if they can prescribe a stronger desensitizing topical gel or toothpaste.

Brush With Care

Placing too much force on your teeth may aggravate nerves found in the dentin in the days after a teeth whitening treatment. That’s why you should switch to a soft-bristled brush until sensitivity subsides. It also helps to move the brush with minimal pressure.  

Think About Temperature

Dentin is extremely sensitive to hot and cold substances. As such, it’s a good idea to watch what you eat and drink after teeth whitening. Instead of consuming hot coffee or ice-cold water, opt for beverages that offer a more moderate temperature. Similarly, avoid brushing your teeth with cold water and keep the tap lukewarm. As an alternative, you can drink through a straw so liquids don’t touch your teeth.

Avoid Acidic Foods

Acidic compounds found in foods like citrus fruits, tomatoes, pickles, and processed foods can weaken enamel and expose dentin. To avoid sensitivity problems, limit how much of these foods you eat. As an alternative, opt for foods that are lower in acidity—such as milk, beans, avocados, and lean meats. In the event you do consume something acidic, be sure to rinse the food particles away with lukewarm water.

If you suffer from sensitivity issues after teeth whitening, these are all great strategies to diminish discomfort. However, Pfeiffer Family Dentistry reminds patients that tooth sensitivity issues also be addressed during the whitening treatment. As an experienced cosmetic dentist of Fort Thomas, KY, this provider understands how to carefully apply bleaching solutions to produce powerful results while minimizing contact with sensitive portions of the mouth. To learn more about how this local provider can make your dental care more comfortable, visit the clinic online. For appointments, call (859) 441-1900.