Ask Your Dentist: Teeth Whitening Trays for Sensitive Teeth

Teeth Whitening Normal, IL

One of modern dentistry's most popular services is teeth whitening. The most commonly reported side effect of this treatment, though, is tooth sensitivity. Hot and cold sensitivity can be aggravating or even painful for patients. There are many types of bleaching solutions and methods available, and each comes with its own risks and benefits as well as level of sensitivity potentially caused. One of the most common types of bleaching, trays, has some advantages over others in the ability to manage sensitivity. 

Considerations for whitening trays used on sensitive teeth

When using whitening solution in custom trays, it is important that patients follow a few simple tips to keep sensitivity to a minimum. One of the most important factors for any solution used is this: Follow instructions from the manufacturer and dentist as closely as possible. Misuse of bleaching products can lead to unnecessary levels of sensitivity.

Use whitening material as directed

Using teeth whitening solution longer than directed is one of the most common causes of sensitivity when using trays. This can mean wearing the trays for too many minutes or using the trays for more days than recommended. When the patient follows the directions for the product, sensitivity and tooth and gum damage are less likely to occur. If a patient continues to excessively whiten despite extreme sensitivity, it could be a sign of body dysmorphic disorder; in this case a referral to a mental health professional may be needed.

Alternate fluoride with whitening material

One of the major advantages of custom trays over other methods is allowing the patient to alternate fluoride with bleaching material. While fluoride is most commonly known to prevent cavities, it also has sensitivity relief properties. A dentist may recommend using fluoride in the trays every other day or immediately after teeth whitening treatment if the patient experiences high levels of hot and cold sensitivity. The fluoride can usually be purchased at the patient's dental office, and it is important that the patient receives instruction on how to use it properly.

Use recommended sensitivity products

Besides fluoride, there are many other products designed to ease tooth sensitivity. These include specially formulated toothpastes and rinses. Some products may require a prescription from a dentist, but there are plenty of over-the-counter products that can reduce post-whitening sensitivity as well. If sensitivity lingers for more than two weeks, the patient should see a dentist for recommendations on how to address sensitivity.

Conclusion

While some patients may shy away from bleaching treatments due to bad experiences with sensitivity in the past, there are many ways this issue can be reduced. Solutions have also improved in recent years to lessen this undesirable side effect. Trays offer the added benefits of being custom-fitted while allowing the patient to use sensitivity products in addition to whitening products. For patients considering bleaching procedures, a consultation with a dentist is recommended to find out if the patient is a candidate for this treatment and what type would benefit their specific situation.

Request an appointment here: https://voguedental.com or call Vogue Dental at (309) 449-8888 for an appointment in our Normal office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Teeth Whitening in Normal, IL.

Recent Posts

6 Zoom® Teeth Whitening FAQs

Zoom® teeth whitening is a whitening procedure that brightens the natural color of the teeth for a more sparkling and vibrant appearance. This whitening method uses a unique whitening gel with a special light wavelength that activates and releases oxygen molecules in the gel. The activated oxygen penetrates the pores of the tooth enamel to…

Professional Teeth Whitening To Improve Your Smile

Professional teeth whitening treatments are one of the most effective ways to drastically improve the way your teeth look. These treatments use bleaching agents like hydrogen peroxide and hydrogen carbamide to bleach stains and discoloration away from teeth.A single whitening treatment performed by a dentist can improve the color of a person’s teeth by up…

Will Teeth Whitening Work For Tetracycline Stain?

Teeth whitening treatments are the least invasive way to improve the color of your teeth. These treatments use bleaching agents like hydrogen peroxide or hydrogen carbamide to remove stains from the inner and outer layers of teeth.However, while teeth whitening treatments work extremely well on stains caused by aging, smoking, or the tannins in food,…

3 Tips For Zoom Teeth Whitening Aftercare

Zoom!™ teeth whitening is gaining popularity. It is a teeth-whitening method capable of giving quick results. Some people try to use over-the-counter teeth-whitening solutions. An in-office Zoom teeth whitening treatment is effective. Yet, you still need to perform proper teeth whitening aftercare. If you want to learn some tips for correct Zoom teeth whitening post-treatment…

Recent Posts

Dental Checkup: Full Exam Of Teeth, Gums And Mouth

Dental Checkup: Full Exam Of Teeth, Gums And Mouth

When was your last dental checkup? Read on to learn more about the importance of regular dental care visits. A dental checkup visit with a dentist is a great way to detect the early signs of any oral health concerns and put together a restorative plan (if necessary) before the concerns worsen. Regular dental checkups…

The Recovery Process For Tooth Extraction

The Recovery Process For Tooth Extraction

Tooth extraction may become necessary due to damage or decay. The procedure involves removing a tooth entirely from its socket. To remove teeth, dentists use an elevator to loosen them and forceps to remove them entirely. In some cases, dentists may create incisions in the gums for better access. Following the removal, professionals clean and…