Tooth Whitening | 4 Active Tactics To Minimise Discomfort After You Whiten Your Teeth Professionally

Tooth whitening at the dentist is a great way to restore the original condition of your discoloured teeth, but the procedure can leave you with some discomfort for a short time after. This is because bleaching molecules and enhanced porosity of teeth can put pressure to make them more sensitive after being whitened. These active tactics will help you minimise discomfort soon after your professional tooth whitening appointment.

Ask Your Dentist To Apply A De-Sensitising Gel

If you're the type to feel discomfort after most procedures, then ask your dentist in advance to apply a de-sensitising gel for calming your teeth nerves before the procedure. This is typically applied several minutes before the tooth whitening procedures. De-sensitising gel contains both fluoride and potassium nitrate to make your teeth and gums feel numb once you apply it. This greatly reduces your discomfort before and after your tooth whitening appointment.

Brush Teeth Before You Whiten Them And Not After

Make sure you brush your teeth before you whiten them and not after. If you brush your teeth after you whiten them, then you will further open your teeth pores. These open pores will remove the layer of protective protein on your teeth surface to make them feel more sensitive than otherwise. This layer will thin out during the procedure for eliminating stains. Brushing after tooth whitening will damage enamel, so avoid it for several hours after the procedure.

Avoid Eating Acidic Foods Immediately After Teeth Whitening

Change your diet to reduce your intake of acidic foods during tooth whitening because these types of foods will enhance sensitivity. Whitening therapies typically remove protein protection from your teeth, making them more susceptible to acidic foods in this time. Acidic foods like sugar, grains, fish, dairy products, processed foods, corned beef and turkey should ideally be avoid for several hours after your tooth whitening appointment. Acidic erosion from these foods will cause more harm than good for your teeth in the long run.

Take An Anti-Inflammatory Drug To Reduce Sensitivity

Anti-inflammatory drugs can help to reduce sensitivity and discomfort before and after your tooth whitening appointment. Each drug typically lasts for a few hours, so you may have to take a few to remain comfortable following your procedure until the sensitivity completely wears off. Always consult your dentist before taking any medication to ensure that it doesn't get in the way of your procedure.

Whitening your teeth is a great way to enhance your smile. For more information, contact a cosmetic dentist in your area.

Share