I want whiter teeth, but they are really sensitive. What should I do?

Everyone wants their teeth to remain as white as possible. Not only does it boost one’s confidence tremendously but also improves the overall look of the smile. Well, just like everything else, teeth whitening can come at a cost in the form of sensitivity. In as much as the whitening procedure is relatively easy and can be accomplished either at the dental office or at home, it can sometimes come with complications like sensitivity.

Usually, tooth sensitivity can be as a result of cold water or air and occurs as a rush or wave of pain. Many people describe the feeling as unpleasant and uncomfortable. If you happen to be experiencing tooth sensitivity, then you might want to think carefully about your teeth-whitening regime. Please note the smallest of details could help you a great deal. It's understandable how much a brighter smile means to everyone, and tooth sensitivity should not be an excuse not to have whiter teeth. So how do you proceed if you want whiter teeth, but sensitivity keeps getting in the way? The following strategies should be of help.

Pay close attention to dentist’s and or manufacturer’s instructions

If you are using a professional product, then it is in your best interest to stick to the guidelines of your dentist. Likewise, if your teeth whitening strategy involves over-the-counter products, then ensure you follow the instructions from the manufacturer to the later. Sometimes tooth sensitivity becomes unbearable simply because one failed to follow the instructions provided. Also, when whitening your teeth never do it for a more extended period than it is recommended. It might make the sensitivity even worse than it was.

Avoid cold drinks and foods

One of the common triggers of tooth sensitivity is cold drinks and foods. Whether you are whitening your teeth or not teeth have always been sensitive to temperature. If you have undergone a whitening procedure, the teeth become more sensitive. A single sip of cold water can prove too uncomfortable and give a feeling you've never experienced before. It also makes the teeth more sensitive. As such, you might want to keep an eye on what goes into your mouth.

Consider using fluoride treatments

Fluoride helps alleviate sensitivity symptoms tremendously. If you want to keep your whiter teeth and at the same time, not go through sensitivity issues, you can try sensitivity toothpaste while brushing. Also, you can do fluoride rinses once in a while.

Take breaks between treatments

If you start to experience sensitivity issues, you might want to cut back your application times. You might not realize it, but taking short breaks between treatments can go a long way in alleviating sensitivity symptoms. Continually using whitening products affects your teeth in one way or another, so take it slow. Taking breaks does not make your teeth any less white. Instead, it helps acquire whiter teeth while avoiding sensitivity.

Consider eating foods that contribute to keeping teeth strong

If you want to keep your teeth whiter, the best way to do that is by making sure they are healthy as well. Weak teeth are more vulnerable to sensitivity, especially when going through a teeth-whitening regime. In your diet, you might want to incorporate cheese, which does a remarkable job in strengthening your teeth. Likewise, you might want to try crunchy vegetables that help with maintaining the surface of your tooth. Keep in mind that if you desire white teeth, it just does not happen overnight. It is a process from the treatment to even your daily diet. Some of the great choices that you can try include carrots, celery, and cucumbers. They give you stronger teeth that even when undergoing a whitening procedure, they don't become vulnerable to sensitivity.

Use a soft-bristled brush

When brushing your teeth, it's always advisable to do it with a brush that has softer bristles. Sensitivity can be a nightmare if you are brushing with a rough toothbrush. Softer bristles are gentle on your teeth as well as your gums and help a lot in minimizing sensitivity symptoms.

Avoid overusing whitening products

Whitening products are not meant to be used for a long time. Overusing them can lead to tooth sensitivity. Most of the whitening products that people use are manufactured with chemicals which with prolonged use have the potential to increase the sensitivity to your teeth by a great deal. Sometimes they can even damage them. Please note excessive use of whitening products does not give your white teeth better than using the recommended amount. Your teeth can be quite vulnerable, so it's up to you to make sure they are well-protected.

Consult with a dentist

Tooth sensitivity is common among many people. Several measures are in place to get rid of the condition as well, but sometimes no matter how you try, the sensitivity remains persistent. In case you are going through a whitening treatment or you've already had one, it might be worse. At such times it's always good to consult with your dentist. You might be thinking it's a minor issue while in reality you have gum recession or cavities and don't know it yet. The dentist understands what you are going through all too well. He also has the expertise to help you with your condition. He or she can also provide desensitizing products which have proved to be quite useful over time. It all depends on your situation and what is causing the sensitivity problems. Keep in mind that only a dentist would know the right solutions for your case.

Use a product with the right level of peroxide

These days there are many teeth whitening products from all sorts of manufacturers. Please note that not all of these products are safe, and some can be harmful to your teeth. If you need a teeth whitening kit, make sure you get it from a reputable supplier. This way, you will be guaranteed that it has the right peroxide level, which plays a significant role in your tooth sensitivity. Usually, a 6-10% peroxide level is quite low for most people. A higher level of peroxide can help deal with sensitivity problems. However, if your teeth are already miserable, no matter the concentration of peroxide you use, it might not deliver the results that you are seeking. In such cases, it’s always advisable to seek the help of a dentist.

Consider taking Advil then have a whitening treatment

Many people have sensitive teeth and want to try whitening treatment but don't know how they can go about it. Usually, taking Advil can help reduce sensitivity symptoms before applying the whitening procedure. The drug is a pain reliever, although if taken before starting the whitening treatment, it can prevent sensitivity symptoms from surfacing. You can then go through the procedure without discomfort and feeling as though your teeth are cracking.

Chew a sugar-free gum pack

Chewing this gum is always advisable once you have undergone a teeth whitening treatment. You can begin by chewing one piece at a time. If possible, chew each gum for ten minutes then spit it. Do the same with all the other pieces until you are done with the whole pack. The relevance of this is that it helps in minimizing tooth sensitivity when going through whitening treatments. For people that have sensitive teeth, the condition is likely to alleviate when they are trying to get their teeth whiter. Sugar-free gum can help lessen sensitivity. However, if you have stomach problems, you might want to avoid this method. Likewise, if you haven't anything to eat, don't try to chew gum since it triggers the release of gastric acid.  It enhances the risk of getting ulcers.

Tooth whitening is very common these days. Everyone desires to have a perfect smile, and you can't have that if you have colored teeth. Considering that the smile is one of the first things that capture peoples' attention, you don't want to take any chances with it. Tooth sensitivity with whitening lasts for approximately 24-48hrs and explains why so many people prefer the procedure. All you need to do is spare a couple of hours, and your teeth will be white like never before.

Unlike before, when teeth whitening products contained some harsh ingredients now, there have been some remarkable improvements. If you want to whiten your teeth, you no longer have to worry about them getting damaged or experiencing extreme sensitivity. All you need to do is purchase the right teeth whitening kit. It should have the best products made using high-quality ingredients that are gentle on your teeth and don’t have undesired side effects. Whether you are suffering from sensitivity issues or not, getting whiter teeth is easier than ever. However, above anything else always consult with a dentist and let him/her advise you accordingly on the best treatment for you. Most people end up making things worse when they decide to do everything alone. The good thing with consultation is that you also get to find out what was causing the sensitivity.