Why Is Teeth Whitening Painful for Many People?

One of the reasons some people hesitate to get professional teeth-whitening services is due to the pain they feel during and after the treatment. It is extremely common for people to feel pain during and after teeth-whitening services, and this is primarily the result of sensitivity issues that people already have with their teeth that are aggravated by the ingredients used during whitening procedures.

Why It Hurts

The pain you may feel during and after teeth whitening is often the result of an increase in tooth sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity is a common problem for many people, and it can occur for a variety of reasons. In many cases, it is a result of enamel erosion, which is something that causes enamel to wear off of teeth. When this happens, the inner parts of teeth are left exposed, and these parts contain nerves. Tooth sensitivity also occurs from receding gums. When gums recede, it exposes tooth nerves too. When you get your teeth whitened, it tends to heighten the feelings of sensitivity.

Tooth pain also occurs with teeth-whitening services as a result of the hydrogen peroxide used to whiten teeth. This ingredient is the most common one used during teeth whitening, and to work, the peroxide must penetrate into the person's teeth. Most people are sensitive to hydrogen peroxide simply because of the way it works, and this is why you likely feel pain from this service.

What You Can Do

If you really want white teeth but do not want to experience such extreme pain and sensitivity, there are several things you can do that may decrease the pain you experience from this. The first thing is to take pain medication just before getting your teeth whitened. This will reduce inflammation and pain as a result of the process.

Secondly, you could use a desensitizing agent prior to the procedure. This is something you can buy from a pharmacy and use daily for several weeks prior to getting your teeth whitened. After repeated use, it will decrease the sensitivity of your teeth. You can also use toothpaste specially designed for people with sensitive teeth, as this too can make a difference in the way your teeth feel.

Another option you have is to talk to your dentist about alternative options for whitening your teeth. Your dentist may be able to give you tips and options that will help you have whiter teeth without the pain. Contact a dentist like those at Pinon Hills Dental for more information.