6 Ways to Manage Sensitive Teeth After Whitening - GoodRx (2024)



Teeth whitening has become very popular over the last several years for many reasons. Some may want a whiter smile because of tooth discoloration. Or you may just want to boost your self-confidence.

For many, whitening products have been the answer. But if you’ve tried teeth whitening, you may have had temporary tooth sensitivity and even gingival inflammation. This is common and expected. Fortunately, there are some easy ways to deal with the pain and sensitivity both during and after teeth whitening.

Why do your teeth become sensitive after whitening?

Tooth sensitivity after whitening is due to carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide. These are the most common ingredients in teeth whitening products. They both work by creating a chemical reaction with the chromogens on the teeth. Chromogens are the bacteria that form on our teeth and cause staining.

When the peroxides in whitening products come into contact with chromogens, the result is a lighter tooth shade. But sometimes exposure to these peroxides can cause inflammation of the pulp or nerve inside the tooth.

As a result, after teeth whitening you may experience short periods of tooth pain or sensitivity with:

• Air

• Cold beverages or foods

• Sweet, sour, or acidic foods

• Brushing your teeth

6 tips to deal with tooth pain and sensitivity after whitening

The most common side effect after using teeth whitening products is temporary tooth pain and sensitivity. But there are some tips you can try that may lower the likelihood of discomfort after the procedure. You may find sensitivity relief by following the tips below.

1. Use a lower concentration of whitening product

In over-the-counter (OTC) whitening strips, hydrogen peroxide concentrations can vary between 5.3% to 6.5%. Your dental provider may use products with carbamide peroxide at a much higher strength. These products can have concentrations from 10% to 45%. The higher the concentration you use, the more sensitive your teeth can become.

2. Decrease the amount of whitening product in the tray

If using an at-home whitening tray, follow the manufacturer's instructions closely. This is important in regards to the amount of whitening gel to place in the tray. Only a small drop of gel should go in each area of the tray where there is a tooth. And it’s important that you don’t overfill the tray. If an excessive amount of gel overflows onto your gums, you’ve put too much gel in the tray. This can raise the likelihood of sensitivity. You can remove the excess whitening gel with your toothbrush or cotton swab.

3. Increase the time between whitening treatments

You may decide not to whiten every day if gingival irritation or the sensitivity from whitening becomes too painful. It’s okay to skip days to allow gingival tissue time to heal and tooth sensitivity to settle down. You will still get the same whitening result, but it may take more days to get there.

4. Take a break from whitening treatment until sensitivity is less

If skipping days from whitening does not give you the relief you need, then it may be necessary to take a break from whitening your teeth. You may need to wait a month or more before trying to whiten again.

5. Brush with sensitive toothpaste

Sensitive toothpastes contain an ingredient called potassium nitrate. This compound is effective in reducing tooth sensitivity caused by whitening. Potassium nitrate was shown effective when used twice a day before or during the teeth whitening process.

6. Use a desensitizing gel or fluoride varnish applied by your dental provider

Desensitizing gels and fluoride varnish can give you quick relief from the sensitivity of teeth whitening. Fluoride varnish contains high concentrations of sodium fluoride, up to 5%. It’s painted directly onto the teeth in a thin layer by your dental care provider. The relief is often fast and long-lasting — in some cases up to 8 weeks.

How long does tooth sensitivity last after teeth whitening?

Tooth sensitivity from teeth whitening should go away after whitening treatment is over. This will usually happen by the fourth day. If sensitivity continues, there could be an underlying dental issue involved.

Other factors that may influence sensitivity are:

• Teeth with decay

• Exposed dentin (layer underneath enamel that protects the nerve of the tooth)

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• Cracks in the teeth

• Defective or broken-down restorations (like fillings, crowns, veneers, or bridges)

It’s important to include your dental provider in your whitening journey. Having a complete exam of your teeth and existing restorations may help you avoid sensitivity from other factors. Your dentist can also help you narrow down which whitening products are best for you and take care of any dental needs before whitening your teeth.

How do you treat whitening burns?

Another common side effect of teeth whitening is gingival irritation, also known as whitening burns. You may notice your gums turn white or bright red while using whitening products. This mild to moderate burning sensation can begin within the first day of whitening and may last for several days.

But there are some things you can try to get relief from mild to moderate gingival irritation pain. These can include:

• Saltwater rinses

• Removal of excess any whitening gel on your gums with a cotton swab

• Leaving the whitening product in place for the recommended amount of time only

• Giving your gums a break from whitening until pain is gone

Once you have stopped the whitening process, your gums usually heal within a few days. If the pain persists then it’s best to see your dental provider. They may be able to suggest other options to soothe and heal your gingival tissues.

What should you avoid after teeth whitening?

Now that you have whitened your teeth and have the brighter smile you desire, let’s talk about ways to keep them white.

Staining on the outer surface of the teeth that causes discoloration are extrinsic stains. Extrinsic staining on the teeth is a result of environmental factors. These can include smoking and consuming darker colored food and beverages.

To prolong the whiteness of your teeth try avoiding:

• Tobacco

• Dark fruits (e.g., blueberries)

• Red wine

• Coffee

• Tea

• Dark colas