Teeth bleaching may cause sensitivity in some people. This sensitivity is usually due to the increased permeability of the tooth enamel layer, which makes it easier for chemicals to penetrate the tooth. These chemicals can irritate the tooth nerve and cause sensitivity. Also, teeth bleaching may cause dry mouth, which can also cause sensitivity.
In some cases, sensitivity after teeth bleaching may last for several days to several weeks. If the sensitivity is very severe or lasts for a long time, it is better to visit the best dentist to diagnose the cause and prescribe the appropriate treatment.
What is teeth bleaching?
Teeth bleaching is a method to whiten teeth. In this method, chemicals such as hydrogen peroxide are applied to the teeth to change their color and make them whiter. Chemicals used in teeth bleaching can be medical or household. Dental bleaching is usually done using a laser or LED light and may require several sessions. In home bleaching, the dentist may make a coating for your teeth that contains bleaching material and you apply it to your teeth at home for several days.
It is important to know that teeth bleaching is not the only method to whiten teeth and there are some other methods such as dental coating and dental veneers. Before using any teeth whitening method, it is better to consult with the best teeth whitening doctor.
Teeth sensitivity after bleaching
Teeth bleaching is one of the methods used to improve the color of teeth. However, some people may be allergic to this method. Some possible sensitivities after teeth bleaching are:
- Sensitivity to very cold temperature or heat: This sensitivity usually occurs due to the change in tooth structure and increased permeability due to tooth bleaching.
- Pressure sensitivity: Some people may show sensitivity to pressure on their teeth due to teeth bleaching.
- Allergy to sweet and acidic foods: Some people may be allergic to sweet and acidic foods after teeth whitening.
- Allergy to bleaching agent: Some people may be allergic to the bleaching agent used in teeth whitening.
However, it should be noted that sensitivities after teeth bleaching are usually temporary, and if you are too concerned, it is better to see your doctor.
Treatment of sensitivity caused by bleaching
To treat sensitivity caused by teeth bleaching, you can do the following:
- Use of desensitizing toothpaste: Desensitizing toothpaste contains substances such as potassium nitrate and fluoride that help reduce tooth sensitivity.
- Use of desensitizing gel: Desensitizing gels contain substances such as fluoride, potassium nitrate, and hydrogen peroxide that help reduce tooth sensitivity.
- Use of anti-allergic dental protection: Anti-allergic dental protection consists of a thin layer of gel containing fluoride, which is placed on the surface of the teeth and helps reduce tooth sensitivity.
- Taking anti-inflammatory medications: In some cases, your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or aspirin to help reduce tooth pain and sensitivity.
- See a dentist: If the sensitivity is severe, it is better to see a dentist. The dentist may prescribe you a special dental protector or use other methods such as covering the teeth with special resins or implementing alternative methods for tooth bleaching and help reduce tooth sensitivity.
Bleaching hypoallergenic gels
Bleaching hypoallergenic gels contain ingredients that help reduce tooth sensitivity after bleaching. These gels can include substances such as potassium nitrate, fluoride, hydrogen peroxide, and chlorhexidine.
- Potassium Nitrate: This substance acts as a pain reliever and helps reduce tooth sensitivity. Potassium nitrate reduces tooth sensitivity by reducing the activity of sensory neurons in the tooth.
- Fluoride: Fluoride is an important substance for maintaining the health of teeth and can help reduce tooth sensitivity. Also, fluoride can help strengthen the primary layer of teeth, the enamel layer, and minimize its damage.
- Hydrogen peroxide: Hydrogen peroxide is used as a tooth-bleaching agent, but it may lead to tooth sensitivity. Hypoallergenic bleaching gels often contain smaller amounts of hydrogen peroxide.
- Chlorhexidine: Chlorhexidine is a powerful disinfectant that can help reduce inflammation and tooth sensitivity.
Gum burn after bleaching
Gum burns after teeth bleaching may be due to the direct contact of the bleaching agent with the soft tissue of the gums. Also, irritation and inflammation of the gums can be the cause of this burn. To reduce gum, burn after teeth bleaching, you can use the following measures:
- Use acid neutralizers: After teeth bleaching, you can use acid neutralizers such as sodium bicarbonate to reduce the acidity in your mouth and help reduce gum burn.
- Using aloe vera gel: Using aloe vera gel as a natural anti-inflammatory and soothing for the gums can be beneficial.
- Use of cold water: Rinsing the mouth with cold water can be effective in reducing gumburn and mouth pain.
- Use of products containing fluoride: Using toothpaste and products containing fluoride can help reduce gum sensitivity and burn.
- Using a desensitizing dental protector: A desensitizing dental protector consists of a thin layer of gel containing fluoride, which is placed on the surface of the teeth and helps reduce tooth sensitivity. It may also help reduce gum inflammation.
- Maintaining oral and dental hygiene: Maintaining oral and dental hygiene by washing the mouth using toothpaste containing fluoride and using dental floss can help reduce gumburn.
- See a dentist: If the gum burn is severe, it is better to see a dentist. The dentist may prescribe you a special dental protector or use other methods such as covering the teeth with special resins or implementing alternative methods for teeth bleaching and helping reduce gum burn.
Who cannot bleach?
Teeth bleaching is a popular method to improve the color of teeth, but some people cannot use this method. Due to possible problems and complications, the following people should not turn to teeth bleaching:
- People under 16 years old: Children and teenagers under 16 years old should avoid teeth bleaching because their teeth are still growing and developing.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Teeth bleaching is not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding, because there is a possibility of absorption of chemicals by the body and the occurrence of complications for the fetus and baby as a result.
- People with damaged tooth enamel: If the teeth are damaged and their enamel is weakened, bleaching may cause more damage to them.
- Those with inuminate teeth: People whose teeth have inuminates (lack of tooth eruption) cannot use bleaching, because this method does not work on erupted teeth.
- People with severe dental sensitivity: People whose teeth react to extreme sensitivity to cold and heat should eliminate bleaching from their routine.
Observing these things prevents complications and unpleasant problems after teeth bleaching. Also, before doing bleaching, it is better to consult a good dentist to ensure the health of your teeth.
Complications of bleaching
Teeth bleaching is a popular method to improve the color of teeth, but we should also be familiar with its side effects:
- The sensitivity of teeth to cold and heat is the result of bleaching chemicals.
- Gum irritation and inflammation occur due to improper use of bleaching products.
- Damage to the enamel of the teeth and the appearance of yellow or white spots on the teeth are caused by improper use.
- Color abnormalities may appear after bleaching.
- Increased sensitivity to soothing agents is caused by frequent use of bleaching products.
How to prevent the side effects of teeth bleaching
- Consultation with a dentist before starting bleaching
- Selection of quality and organic products
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions
- Judicious use of bleaching and combination with emollients
- Prevention of allergies using products containing fluoride
- Careful care of mouth and teeth after bleaching
By following these tips, you can enjoy the benefits of teeth bleaching and avoid unpleasant side effects. Also, if any complications occur, see a dentist in Toronto.