Tooth sensitivity is a common side effect of teeth whitening, and it is usually caused by the whitening solution used to lighten teeth. This solution can remove minerals from the enamel, making teeth temporarily porous and exposing the microtubules inside. If you have a fine polish, this is usually the first thing your dentist will check if you experience pain after whitening treatments. Even those with strong enamel may still feel some discomfort after bleaching. Peroxide, one of the main ingredients in whitening solutions, can irritate the nerves in your teeth, causing discomfort when you drink something cold or when you go out in cold temperatures.
The whitening effect is achieved by active oxygen, which penetrates deep into dental tissues and can irritate dental nerves. If you experience pain, it is important to tell your dentist right away. When the procedure is stopped, you can try again once the pain subsides. Dr. Scheier suggests that this temporary tooth sensitivity may be due to the whitening agent contained in certain teeth whitening products.
He believes that this contact could be responsible for the tooth sensitivity people may experience after using an over-the-counter whitening kit. If peroxide comes into contact with the gums, it could also cause temporary tenderness. The exact cause of sensitivity caused by teeth whitening is still unknown. However, the main hypothesis has to do with the effects of peroxides on enamel and dentin. As the peroxide product removes stains from teeth, it also causes slight demineralization that makes teeth more porous.
If you want to whiten your smile without worsening tooth sensitivity, Sensodyne Repair and Protect Whitening Toothpaste is a great option. Take-home kits whiten teeth more gradually than in-office whitening treatments, which can help reduce sensitivity.