Can I Have My Teeth Whitened if I Have Sensitive Teeth?

Teeth whitening has become one of the most requested and popular services for improving your smile. One reason is that your smile is one of the first things people notice about you. And what makes it more attractive is that getting whiter teeth is also a quick and easy process.

At SPA Dental Group, we have teams in the Midtown East area of Manhattan, New York, and in Washington, DC, with the expertise to whiten your teeth professionally. 

If you have sensitive teeth, we encourage you to stay away from using over-the-counter teeth whitening products, and instead, see our team for teeth whitening for the following reasons.

Protection for your sensitivity issues

Teeth whitening lifts and removes stains from your teeth, giving them a much whiter appearance. However, the solution applied to your teeth during the process causes your teeth to become temporarily porous, which can leave you with tooth sensitivity for a short period.

You have microtubules within your teeth, which are microscopic pathways that go from the surface of your teeth to the center. This area contains your dental nerves, which become exposed during your teeth whitening treatment.

To avoid sensitivity issues that can occur, we use the Opalescence™ whitening system that has contoured trays that fit over your mouth properly, which stops the bleaching gel from contacting your gums. Our treatment is also gentler on your teeth.

If you have extra sensitive teeth, we can also recommend sensitivity relief toothpaste and desensitizing gel.

If you choose over-the-counter whitening products to apply yourself, the trays or strips might not properly cover your teeth, which causes the bleaching solution to contact your gums, increasing sensitivity.

Professional monitoring of the process

During professional teeth whitening, we first prepare your teeth to ensure the bleaching gel doesn’t touch your gums or tongue. The treatment only takes an hour or less. We monitor your comfort level and the effectiveness of the procedure while you’re in our care. 

We also provide you with steps to avoid tooth sensitivity after your appointment. Tips include:

• Avoid hot and cold drinks and food
• Stay away from acidic drinks and food
• Brush your teeth gently
• Drink through a straw to prevent liquid from touching your teeth

We’re also here to answer your questions at any time. After your procedure, if you experience tooth sensitivity without relief, call our office for professional medical advice. 

To learn more about getting a whiter and brighter smile without the discomfort of tooth sensitivity, reach out to the staff at one of our locations closest to you by phone or book your appointment online today.