In the past, the higher bleach concentrations used in-office treatment resulted in more sensitivity. Today, however, bleaching gels are well buffered, making sensitivity less of an issue. Sensitivity may occur in people after whitening procedures, particularly when they eat hot or cold foods, but usually disappears after 48 hours and stops completely when treatment is stopped.

If you do experience sensitivity, there are several ways you can help eliminate it:

If using a tray applicator, wear the tray for a shorter period

Brush with a toothpaste made for sensitive teeth that contains potassium nitrate to help soothe tooth nerve ending

Ask your dentist or pharmacist for a product with fluoride, which helps re-mineralize your teeth. Brush-on or wear in your trays four minutes prior to and after whitening your teeth

Stop whitening your teeth for several days to allow you teeth to adapt to the whitening process. Within 24 hours, the sensitivity will cease. The longer you whiten your teeth, the less sensitivity you will experience

In a few cases, your dentist may discourage dental bleaching:

If you have gum disease, teeth with worn enamel, cavities or particularly sensitive teeth

If you're pregnant or breast-feeding

If you have tooth-colored crowns, caps or other dental work in your front teeth, which can't be bleached

Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon, Kevin M. Martin, DDS & Associates, Las Vegas, NV, practices a full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery with expertise ranging from dental implants to wisdom tooth removal.

Las Vegas Oral Surgery

7670 West Lake Mead Blvd Las Vegas, NV 89128

(702) 312-2273

http://www.lasvegasoralsurgery.com/