If you want to improve the look of your smile with minimal effort and time, a professional teeth whitening treatment is a great option. These procedures can help remove years of staining for teeth that look whiter, beautiful, and younger after just one session. Post-treatment sensitivity can happen to some, but there are many ways to combat this. Even fluoride can play an important role in keeping teeth healthy while helping to relieve this type of discomfort.
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that has been shown to be very effective at strengthening teeth and preventing decay. The American Dental Association recommends using fluoride toothpaste for daily brushing for this very reason. It is also added to many local water supplies because of its dental health benefits. Many dentists even recommend a topical fluoride treatment at regular checkups to give teeth an extra dose of protection.
Because fluoride is able to help strengthen enamel and mineralize the teeth, it can help reseal tooth surfaces at a faster rate. This protective barrier helps shield the tooth from the temperature changes that lead to sensitivity, which are more likely to happen after a whitening treatment. When combined with other dentist-recommended practices after the procedure, fluoride use can help reduce the minor aches associated with tooth sensitivity.
One of the only potential negative side effects of teeth whitening is increased sensitivity after treatment. Some patients do not experience this issue at all. Others may find it very noticeable, especially immediately after the procedure.
During a whitening treatment, hydrogen peroxide products are often used to open the enamel pores and target stains. While this allows for better stain removal, it does force the enamel to stay open for an extended period of time. This outer layer is the tooth's first defense against pain and sensitivity, so patients are much more likely to experience these types of discomfort until the enamel closes again.
Most tooth sensitivity caused by teeth whitening is minimal and lasts for no more than a day or two. However, some people may notice some lingering effects. If it lasts for more than a few weeks or becomes severe, patients should follow up with a dentist.
Because sensitive teeth are caused by changes in tooth enamel, remineralizing this outer layer can help reduce sensitivity at a much faster rate. Fluoride plays an important role in dental health because it has been shown to help remineralize teeth and strengthen enamel. When used properly after a teeth whitening treatment, it can help relieve discomfort while maintaining good oral health.
Many public water supplies add fluoride to tap water, so drinking plenty of this type of water can be a good place to start. Using fluoride toothpaste can also help. Rather than rinsing immediately after brushing, try to let the paste set on your teeth for a least a minute so the teeth can better absorb this important mineral. You can also consume more nutritious foods that are rich in fluoride, including:
Just remember to follow a dentist's recommendations for sticking to a white-food diet after whitening treatments.
One of the easiest ways to minimize sensitivity after tooth whitening is to stay away from extremely hot or cold foods. Try to consume things as close as possible to normal body temperature or room temperature instead. Taking care when you clean your teeth can also help. Brush gently with a soft toothbrush, use fluoride toothpaste for sensitive teeth, and use lukewarm water when rinsing.
Teeth whitening can drastically improve the look of your smile. The treatment gently opens the enamel pores for optimum stain removal and it can take a few days for these openings to reseal. Some increased sensitivity may occur as a result, but there are many ways to ease this type of dental discomfort. Fluoride can be one of the most effective options, as it helps remineralize tooth enamel for even faster relief. Using fluoride toothpaste and consuming foods rich in this mineral can be very useful.
Keep in mind that tooth sensitivity after a whitening treatment is very common, but it should only last for a few days. If the discomfort persists for more than two weeks or worsens over time, be sure to contact your dentist.
Request an appointment here: https://www.familydentistryinweston.com or call Artful Dentistry & Wellness at (954) 526-2266 for an appointment in our Weston office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Teeth Whitening in Weston, FL.
Invisalign® clear aligners can fix a range of tooth alignment issues, including bite problems. This clear aligner system has given people of all ages straighter smiles discreetly and conveniently for years. However, many wonder if Invisalign is as effective at correcting issues such as overbites and underbites. Here is an overview of how Invisalign addresses…
Invisalign® has become revolutionary in orthodontics, proving an effective way to straighten teeth discreetly. The system uses smart technology and aligners to shift the teeth in as little as six to 18 months. While many are aware of this fact, there are specific dental conditions known as malocclusions that this revolutionary system is known to…
The All-on-4® system provides people who have lost most of their teeth with a more convenient alternative to dentures. It combines two of the most popular dental restorations — implants and dentures —to craft a new smile. Dentists typically recommend All-on-4® for people who have lost most of their teeth.Implants are the most effective way…
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes breathing interruptions during sleep. This condition can reduce your oxygen levels and disrupt your natural sleeping patterns. If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to serious health problems, such as constant fatigue and irregular heart rhythms. If you have been experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea, it is…