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://coconutgrovesmile.com or call Smile at Coconut Grove at (305) 423-4661 for an appointment in our Coconut Grove office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Teeth Whitening in Coconut Grove, FL.
Various factors affect tooth color, including genetics, food and beverage choices, smoking, and medications. Stains can occur on the surface of the tooth or beneath the enamel. Surface stains are common, but stains can also occur due to changes within the tooth's material. Extrinsic stains are stains on the surface of the tooth, while intrinsic…
Both dental bridges and implants are popular, effective tooth replacement solutions. However, there are cases in which a general dentist may recommend a dental bridge over implants. This may be due to the number of teeth missing, their location, and the strength of the underlying jawbone, among other factors. Understanding how each of these treatments…
No one has to live with a gap in their smile due to missing teeth when a dental bridge offers a versatile and effective solution. It is also important to remember that replacing missing teeth is more than just a matter of cosmetics. Here is why bridging that gap teeth is important and how a…
Dental bonding is a procedure used by dentists for a variety of repairs and cosmetic treatments. It is usually less expensive and more straightforward than other cosmetic dental treatments. Many people also enjoy that it requires less invasive dental work and provides natural-looking results. It is usually completed in a single appointment, which allows patients…
Both dental bridges and implants are popular, effective tooth replacement solutions. However, there are cases…
No one has to live with a gap in their smile due to missing teeth…
Dental bonding can be an inexpensive and simple way to repair common tooth issues and…
A dental bridge is one of the most common ways to replace a missing tooth…
Regular visits to a general dentist are vital in maintaining healthy teeth and gums. General…
Dental bridge placement will need two visits. The patient will go through a short process…
