Today, it seems that whitening strips have become more popular than ever before. You see them all over TikTok, Snapchat and Instagram with influencers pushing specific brands and products. It only makes sense because who wouldn’t want a beautiful smile, if you can achieve it from the convenience of your home? After all, a brighter and whiter smile not only makes you look great, but also makes you feel great too!
However, with whitening strips, it is possible that you may experience some minor discomfort or sensitivity during the process, which is actually quite common. Many over-the-counter whitening products contain hydrogen peroxide as an active ingredient, which can cause sensitivity. In fact, some whitening products may even contain higher concentrations of peroxide, which can lead to greater sensitivity.
What can help with my sensitivity?
First, try not to eat or drink any foods or beverages that are extremely hot or cold, these temperatures can irritate the teeth causing sensitivity. This also means when you’re brushing your teeth it would be best to use lukewarm water!
Second, if you’d like to continue with your whitening routine, try to reduce the wear time of your whitening strips. You can even try using your strips every other day or every two days, to give your teeth a break in-between. Switching to a toothpaste meant for sensitive teeth like Sensodyne can also help to limit sensitivity since these toothpastes contain special ingredients made to help sooth the nerve endings in the teeth. Additionally, you can check for the amount of peroxide that your whitening strips contain. It is possible that the concentration of peroxide could be too high for your teeth, so it may be in your best interest to try a different product with a lower concentration.
Frequently Asked Questions About Teeth Whitening
After you’ve finished with using your whitening strips, your sensitivity should subside away after a few days. If sensitivity seems to continue, you should speak with your dentist since sensitivity can also be an indicator for other oral health concerns.
Is tooth whitening bad for teeth?
The answer is “it depends.” While some solutions are harmful for the teeth, others are completely safe. If you opt for professional teeth whitening, it shouldn’t cause any permanent damage to your teeth enamel’s and is considered harmless by most dentists.
How long does teeth whitening last?
While teeth whitening isn’t permanent, it can last a long time, especially if you expose your teeth to foods and beverages that lead to staining. If you refrain from foods and beverages like coffee and blueberries, you may enjoy longer lasting results.
If you use over-the-counter whitening solutions like strips, you may experience some sensitivity during or after your treatment as well as a bit discomfort. Fortunately, these side effects are usually temporary and will fade a few days after treatment.
How much can I whiten my teeth by?
The amount of whitening will depend on the solution you choose and your unique goals. Generally, however, most teeth whitening solutions can brighten your teeth by 6 to 12 shades. Keep in mind that your results will be more noticeable if you have yellow or brown teeth or surface stains.
Can I get teeth whitening if I have veneers or dentures?
Teeth whitening is designed to enhance the whiteness of natural enamel. Therefore, if you have a restoration like a veneer, crown, or bridge, it may not work. You may need to replace any existing restorations to match the new shade of natural teeth. Speak to your dentist to figure out the best option if you do have restorations.
If you have healthy gums and are longing for a whiter, brighter smile, you can benefit from professional teeth whitening. It can remove any stains on your teeth without taking a toll on existing dental work.
Additional Questions?
If you have any other questions or concerns about sensitivity or whitening products, please contact River Run Dental Spa today so that we can provide you with the information that you are looking for. Our new Midlothian, VA dentist office is open for your convenience.