Though in-office Zoom!® whitening treatments are often the fastest way to brighten your smile, some of our patients at Encinitas Cosmetic Dentistry prefer the convenience of our professional-grade take-home system. Using custom-made trays for your teeth, our take-home bleaching system can be 84% stronger and more effective than some over-the-counter whitening treatments. However, some patients who use take-home whitening systems experience extreme tooth sensitivity.
Some tips for effectively protecting your teeth against sensitivity include:
- Use Sensodyne®, a fluoride toothpaste, or a fluoride rinse for two weeks prior to beginning treatment
- Ask your dentist for a bleaching gel with a lower peroxide level
- Line your custom trays with Sensodyne® toothpaste after each bleaching treatment and wear for ten minutes
- Shorten the length of time you wear your trays
- Wear your trays only every other day
- Use an extra soft-bristled toothbrush during treatment
If you are still experiencing extreme sensitivity, you should immediately stop the use of your take-home whitening system and contact your dentist.
Dr. Cathy J. Santone also recommends a dental exam and teeth cleaning prior to beginning teeth whitening procedures, as sensitive teeth can be a sign of dental decay, tooth wear, and erosion of the teeth.
For more information about take-home bleaching systems or in-office whitening with Zoom!® teeth whitening, or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Santone, please contact us today.
FAQs
Prior to beginning any teeth whitening treatment, patients can use toothpastes and mouthwashes that are specifically designed for sensitive teeth. These products can significantly reduce tooth sensitivity, especially when used with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
How to prepare sensitive teeth before whitening? ›
How To Prepare Sensitive Teeth For Whitening
- Use Sensodyne®, a fluoride toothpaste, or a fluoride rinse for two weeks prior to beginning treatment.
- Ask your dentist for a bleaching gel with a lower peroxide level.
- Line your custom trays with Sensodyne® toothpaste after each bleaching treatment and wear for ten minutes.
As long as you see your dentist before starting any whitening treatment, you can safely fight discoloration, even if you have sensitive teeth. Your dentist can let you know which options are ideal for you.
How do I stop my teeth from being sensitive when I whiten them? ›
Taking pain medication, such as Advil (ibuprofen) or Aleve (naproxen), can help reduce or prevent symptoms if you take it before applying the whitening product. Use a product with less peroxide. While you may think that a higher level of peroxide might give you a better result, it's not worth it if you have pain.
How do I prepare my teeth for whitening? ›
Floss: All food particles need to be removed. Just brushing your teeth won't do the job. Greater results are attained with teeth whitening when the teeth are fully clean. Time: Set aside enough time for your teeth whitening appointment.
What are the dos and don'ts during teeth whitening? ›
Don't Consume Foods that Can Stain Your Teeth
For both over-the-counter and professional teeth whitening, the first few days after treatment are the most critical. Avoid dark foods/liquids, drink through a straw when you can, don't smoke, brush/floss frequently and you should be looking great.
How to whiten teeth without zingers? ›
Whitening your teeth should be convenient and as comfortable as possible. To minimize sensitivity, try: Using toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth for a few weeks prior to the whitening process, then continuing to use the toothpaste during and after the whitening process.
What is the best teeth whitening for sensitive teeth? ›
In-office bleaching procedures:
Professional whitening treatments are the safest way to remove long-term stains if you have sensitive teeth. They are also the most effective. They don't harm the natural enamel of your teeth, so they're less likely to add to your sensitivity.
How long will my teeth hurt after whitening? ›
Sensitive teeth are a common side effect of most whitening treatments. The good news is that these zingers typically only last a few hours after treatment. If they persist for more than a day or two, contact your dentist in Rancho Bernardo to discuss possible causes and solutions.
How long does it take for teeth pores to close after whitening? ›
Once the pores close, which usually happens within 24-48 hours after the procedure, you can resume your normal habits.
If you have sensitive teeth, toothpastes such as Sensodyne Daily Care Gentle Whitening and Sensodyne Sensitivity and Gum Whitening help to remove stains to restore the natural whiteness of your teeth and keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy.
Do I brush my teeth before or after teeth whitening? ›
Brushing before applying Whitestrips can help remove surface stains and improve product adherence. Yet, it's equally essential to follow up with a gentle post-treatment brushing to eliminate residual gel and maintain oral hygiene. The ideal sequence can vary depending on personal preferences and product instructions.
Do you brush your teeth before or after using whitening? ›
It's safe to brush your teeth after applying whitening strips. Just be sure to do it gently to avoid irritating your gums. Another option is to brush your teeth before using whitening strips. This is ideal for removing plaque, which can get stuck beneath the strips.
Should you brush your teeth right before whitening? ›
We recommend that with any form of whitening that teeth are brushed beforehand. This is to ensure that any plaque (this sticky surface layer on your teeth) is removed and that any whitening agent present in the strips or gel gets the closest contact with the teeth.
Should you use Sensodyne before or after teeth whitening? ›
Use Sensodyne toothpaste for 2 weeks prior to whitening and during whitening. You may apply a thin ribbon of Sensodyne into the bleaching trays and wear for 30 minutes before or 30 minutes after session. Be sure to clean the Sensodyne out of the trays thoroughly before filling with whitening gel.
What pain reliever is good before teeth whitening? ›
Take a pain-reliever. Ibuprofen can help relieve symptoms of tooth sensitivity. Dentists usually recommend taking a pain-reliever before a teeth whitening procedure. Brush teeth gently.
Should I use sensitive toothpaste before whitening? ›
Use a sensitivity formulated toothpaste, like Sensodyne, twice a day for two weeks prior to your whitening session.
Though in-office Zoom!® whitening treatments are often the fastest way to brighten your smile, some of our patients at Encinitas Cosmetic Dentistry prefer the convenience of our professional-grade take-home system. Using custom-made trays for your teeth, our take-home bleaching system can be 84% stronger and more effective than some over-the-counter whitening treatments. However, some patients who use take-home whitening systems experience extreme tooth sensitivity.