Professional teeth whitening is a highly common dental treatment. The treatment can enhance the brightness of your smile and even boost your confidence. While there are a number of teeth whitening options, a professional teeth whitening treatment is the safest and most effective option. So, while teeth whitening can brighten your smile, studies have shown that having a whiter smile can boost self-confidence and improve your overall appearance. While the treatment is safe and effective, you may experience some sensitivity post-treatment. This is brief and manageable, but consider the following tips on how to calm sensitivity after teeth whitening.
How to Calm Sensitivity After Teeth Whitening
Teeth sensitivity is a common side effect of teeth whitening treatments. However, the sensitivity is minimal and manageable. Below you will find helpful tips on how to calm sensitivity after teeth whitening.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures:
It’s best to avoid very hot or cold foods or drinks a few days after whitening. Try to avoid extremely hot or cold foods and beverages and opt for lukewarm or room temperature options. This can minimize your sensitivity and ease any discomfort post-treatment.
Avoid Certain Foods:
Foods that are highly acidic or abrasive should be avoided after whitening to minimize sensitivity. Acidic foods and drinks, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, and carbonated drinks, can aggravate tooth sensitivity. Additionally, abrasive substances should also be avoided. Things like hard candy, crunchy snacks, and nuts can increase sensitivity.
Avoid Smoking and Drinking:
Stay away from substances like tobacco and alcohol as they can further irritate your teeth. Tobacco products can also impact the results of your whitening treatment. It’s beneficial to avoid smoking and using tobacco products altogether due to the impact it can have on your oral and overall health.
Oral Care Routine Modifications:
During the first couple of days after your professional teeth whitening in Lakewood, be gentle during your oral care routine. This includes using very gentle circular motions when you are brushing. If you do not already use one, opt for a soft-bristled toothbrush. If you experience sensitivity, incorporate a desensitizing toothpaste into your routine.
Salt Water Rinse:
If you experience intense sensitivity, try a salt water rinse. Dissolve a half of a teaspoon in a glass of warm water. Rinse multiple times a day for 30 seconds to promote healing and reduce sensitivity.
Be Patient:
Tooth sensitivity after teeth whitening should only last a few days. Give your teeth some time to adjust and take over-the-counter pain medication if the sensitivity impacts your day. While sensitivity is common, it’s very manageable. However, if your tooth sensitivity persists for more than one week after treatment, consult with your dentist.
Professional Teeth Whitening Treatment
While there are a number of over-the-counter whitening treatments on the market, professional whitening treatments are safe, effective, and can provide you with immediate results. Professional treatments can be more cost-effective in the long run and you do not risk compromising the health of your teeth and gums. A dentist can effectively examine your oral health and determine if you are a good candidate for whitening.
If you are a good candidate, a Lakewood dentist near you will perform an in-office whitening treatment. To enhance your results, you will also be provided with a home teeth whitening kit that includes custom upper and lower trays for your teeth. This comes with whitening gel syringes that can allow you to get an even whiter smile. If you are interested in improving the look of your smile, consider professional teeth whitening at Jesmine Boghawala DDS Clinic. They are skilled in cosmetic dental treatments and have helped countless patients improve the look of their smile. Contact their office today to schedule a consultation!