If you’ve ever tried DIY teeth whitening with sensitive teeth, you know it can be an unpleasant experience. While having a bright, white smile can give you confidence, you may not want to go through the pain of doing it yourself. You might also worry that you’ll damage the enamel of your teeth.
On the other hand, if you’ve never done any kind of teeth whitening before and you have sensitive teeth, you probably have a lot of questions. For instance, does teeth whitening damage your teeth? Can you whiten your teeth if they are sensitive? What is the best teeth whitening for sensitive teeth?
At Kremer Dental Care, our top priority is our guests’ health, so today, we’re going to set the record straight and help you find the best, safest, and most comfortable teeth whitening methods for sensitive teeth. So, let’s get started!
What Is the Best Teeth Whitening for Sensitive Teeth?
Whitening Toothpaste - Whitening toothpaste is one of the most common DIY methods that is safe and comfortable for people with sensitive teeth. However, it can take weeks of using a whitening toothpaste daily to see results, and the difference you see in your teeth can vary based on the brand. In any case, this method, though not very effective, is often one of the safest options if you want to avoid discomfort.
Certain Whitening Strips - Whitening strips offer a stronger and more immediate effect than whitening toothpaste. However, some whitening strips have higher peroxide concentrations than others, which can lead to discomfort if you have sensitive teeth. Additionally, if you leave the strips on for longer than recommended, it could cause a lot of unnecessary discomfort.
Certain Whitening Gel Pens - Like whitening strips, whitening gel pens are a DIY solution that can make teeth look whiter and brighter. However, depending on the formulation and the level of sensitivity you have, they might not be the best option. They may cause some pain and discomfort.
Does Teeth Whitening Damage Your Teeth?
Many people worry that professional or DIY teeth whitening can damage tooth enamel or lead to long-term dental health issues. However, when done properly (particularly by a professional), the process should not damage your teeth. The key to avoiding any adverse effects is to use the products as directed and avoid overuse.
For sensitive teeth, using high concentrations of bleaching agents or leaving the product on for too long can lead to heightened sensitivity and discomfort. This is why it’s important to follow the instructions to the letter on any whitening product and consult with a dentist if you’re unsure. Overuse of teeth whitening products can, over time, weaken tooth enamel, so moderation is paramount if you’re whitening at home.
Can I Whiten My Teeth If I Have Sensitive Teeth?
Yes, you can whiten your teeth, even if they are very sensitive, but you have to be more cautious about which products and treatments you use. We always recommend consulting with a dentist and, ideally, getting your teeth whitened by a dentist or dental professional. Once you’ve spoken with your dentist, you can follow these tips to avoid discomfort:
- Avoid overly hot or cold food and drinks after whitening
- Use toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth before and after the whitening process.
- Keep whitening product exposure time to a minimum (per the directions for your product or treatment)
Get Your Sensitive Teeth Whitened With Kremer Dental
If you want to get your sensitive teeth whitened without all the guesswork, Kremer Dental Care’s team of professionals can help. Our dentists are experts in cosmetic dentistry and can help you achieve your dream smile, no matter what it entails. Reach out to us today to learn more or schedule an appointment! Check out the areas we serve too.
