How to Limit Sensitivity After Teeth Whitening

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Teeth whitening in Modesto is a fast, affordable, and effective way to enhance your smile. But it is very common to experience some minor sensitivity during treatment, and for a few days after your teeth whitening treatment is over. So in this blog from Downey Park Family Dentistry, we’ll discuss five of our best tips for managing teeth sensitivity after teeth whitening treatment.

1. Tell Your Dentist About Existing Teeth Sensitivity Before Starting Treatment

If you already know that your teeth are prone to sensitivity, you should tell Dr. Corey Acree before you begin your treatment. He can adjust your treatment to help you feel more comfortable. For example, a Modesto dentist could instruct you to wear your take-home whitening trays for less time per day, decrease the whitening strength, or use a fluoride paste or gel in your trays to help with sensitivity.

2. Switch To Anti-Sensitivity Toothpaste Before Teeth Whitening

If you’re going to have your teeth whitened, you should start using an anti-sensitivity toothpaste with the ADA Seal of Acceptance, such as Sensodyne. You should start using anti-sensitivity toothpaste 10 days before your treatment begins, and continue using it during your treatment.

Once your treatment is over, you can continue using anti-sensitivity toothpaste until your teeth no longer feel sensitive. Then, you can switch back to your normal toothpaste, or simply continue to use your anti-sensitivity toothpaste.

3. Brush At Least Twice A Day With A Soft-Bristled Toothbrush

A soft-bristled toothbrush is more gentle on your sensitive teeth, so consider switching to a brush with softer bristles which is also beneficial for your gums. If your teeth are really tender, use a manual toothbrush instead of an electric toothbrush until your sensitivity has resolved. 

However you brush, make sure you’re brushing at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride attracts minerals to your teeth and helps rebuild them, which strengthens your teeth and helps with sensitivity.

4. Take Pain Medication To Help With Discomfort

If you’re feeling a lot of sensitivity during or after the teeth whitening process, taking over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen, ibuprofen, naproxen, or aspirin can help with your pain. Take them according to the instructions on the bottle.

5. Avoid Overly Hot Or Cold Foods And Drinks Right After Teeth Whitening

Heat and cold tend to make sensitivity feel much more intense. So if your teeth are feeling really sensitive, it’s best to avoid consuming really hot and cold foods and drinks. For example, you may want to avoid ice cream, iced drinks, hot coffee and tea, and other such foods and beverages.

Interested In Teeth Whitening In Modesto? Come To Downey Park Family Dentistry Today

At Downey Park Family Dentistry, Dr. Corey Acree is here to help you get the smile you’ve always wanted! If you’re interested in whitening your teeth in Modesto, schedule a cosmetic consultation with our team right away. We’re always accepting new patients, so you can contact us online or give us a call at (209) 529-0674 to book an appointment today.

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