Have you ever tried teeth whitening and felt a sharp zing afterward? You’re not alone. Many people experience tooth sensitivity after whitening treatments. A dentist in Oakville often sees this concern and explains that whitening agents can reach the inner layer of the tooth and irritate the nerve. The good news is that this sensitivity is usually temporary and can be managed with the proper dental care and guidance from your dentist.
What Is Tooth Sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity is when your teeth hurt or feel uncomfortable when they touch something cold, hot, sweet, or sour. After teeth whitening, this feeling can become stronger. Your teeth might feel like they’re sending little shock waves when you drink cold water or breathe in cold air.
The good news is that this sensitivity is usually temporary and can be managed with proper care and advice from a dentist. Professional teeth whitening in Oakville is designed to keep your teeth safe while helping you enjoy a brighter, healthier smile.
Why Does Whitening Cause Sensitivity?
When you geta dentist whitening or use whitening products at home, special chemicals work to make your teeth brighter. These chemicals are called peroxide compounds. Here’s what happens inside your mouth:
The whitening process affects your teeth in several ways:
- The peroxide opens tiny tubes in your tooth enamel called dentinal tubules
- These tubes connect to the nerve inside your tooth
- When the tubes open up, your tooth nerve becomes exposed
- Cold, hot, or sweet things can now reach the nerve more easily
- This causes the sensitive feeling you experience
Your tooth enamel is the hard, protective outer layer of your tooth. During whitening, the peroxide temporarily makes this layer more porous. Think of it like opening tiny doorways that lead straight to the sensitive parts of your teeth.
Common Causes of Sensitivity After Whitening
1. Strong Whitening Products
Some whitening gels contain high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. The stronger the product, the more likely you’ll feel sensitivity.
2. Long Treatment Times
Leaving whitening strips or trays on longer than recommended can irritate your teeth and gums.
3. Existing Dental Problems
If you already have cavities, gum recession or worn enamel, whitening can make these problems more noticeable.
4. Frequent Whitening Sessions
Whitening your teeth too often doesn’t give your enamel time to recover between treatments.
How to Relieve Tooth Pain from Whitening Strips
If you’re experiencingnerve pain after teeth whitening, don’t worry. Here are proven ways to help:
Immediate Relief Methods:
- Stop using the whitening product right away
- Rinse your mouth with warm water
- Take over-the-counter pain medicine like ibuprofen
- Avoid very hot or cold foods and drinks
- Use a soft-bristle toothbrush
Desensitizing Toothpaste
Your dentist will often recommend special toothpaste made for sensitive teeth. These products contain potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride. These ingredients help block the open tubules in your teeth. Use this toothpaste for at least two weeks before and after whitening.
Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride helps strengthen your tooth enamel. Your dentist can apply professional fluoride gel or varnish to your teeth. You can also use a fluoride mouth rinse at home.
Take Breaks Between Whitening
Don’t whiten your teeth every day. Give your teeth at least 2-3 days to rest between treatments.
Professional Solutions from Your Dentist
If home remedies don’t help, schedule an appointment with your dentist. They can provide:
| Treatment | How It Helps |
| Professional desensitizing gel | Seals the dentinal tubules |
| Custom whitening trays | Ensures proper fit and reduces gum irritation |
| Lower concentration whitening | Gentler on teeth while still effective |
| Protective coating | Creates a barrier over sensitive areas |
Prevention Tips
Before you start whitening
- Get a dental checkup first
- Treat any cavities or gum problems
- Start using desensitizing toothpaste two weeks early
- Follow product instructions exactly
- Choose products approved by dental associations
During whitening
- Don’t exceed recommended treatment times
- If sensitivity starts, take a break
- Avoid acidic foods and drinks
- Don’t brush immediately after whitening.
When to Call Your Dentist?
Contact your dentist if:
- Pain lasts more than 48 hours after stopping whitening
- You see white spots or patches on your teeth
- Your gums become very red or swollen
- The sensitivity gets worse instead of better
- You experience severe nerve pain
Call Calma Dental to Brighten Your Smile.
Teeth Whitening at Calma Dental helps remove stains and safely improve tooth colour. Our dentist uses professional whitening methods that protect enamel and reduce tooth sensitivity. The treatment is simple, quick, and delivered in accordance with dental care standards. We check your teeth before starting to ensure healthy results. Book your teeth whitening visit today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does sensitivity last after teeth whitening?
Most people feel better within 24-48 hours after stopping treatment. Some cases may take up to one week to fully resolve.
Can I whiten my teeth if I have sensitive teeth?
Yes, but talk to your dentist first. They can recommend gentler products or professional treatments designed for sensitive teeth.
Is teeth sensitivity after whitening permanent?
No. Sensitivity from whitening is temporary. Your teeth will return to normal once the dentinal tubules close.
Should I use whitening strips every day?
No. Most whitening strips are designed for once-daily use with rest days in between. Check your product instructions and never exceed the recommended usage.
What’s better for sensitive teeth – home whitening or dentist whitening?
Dentist whitening is often better for sensitive teeth because your dentist can control the process, use desensitizing agents, and customize the treatment to your needs.