Teeth whitening procedures are very common cosmetic dental procedures performed to enhance the brightness of teeth. It is usually performed by dental professionals. In-office teeth whitening involves the application of bleaching solutions, then either intense light or laser light is used to activate the bleaching agent or it is washed off and replaced by a new layer of the bleaching solution. In laser application, the teeth are checked every few minutes to observe the level of whitening achieved. Once the desired shade has been attained, the laser light is removed.

Various equipment like cheek retractors, liquid rubber dams, etc. are used to protect teeth from the extreme effects of the bleaching solution and intense light. Also, the patients are provided with at-home bleaching trays so the result of the whitening procedure can be maintained. The results usually appear within a few days.

If the whitening solution is left on the teeth longer than necessary or if it is applied in excessive quantity, the teeth may experience sensitivity. This happens because the bleaching gel sucks the mineral of the enamel, making it extremely porous and fragile. Pores expose the microtubules that lead to the dental nerves. When these dental nerves are exposed, the patient experiences dental sensitivity. This tooth sensitivity may last for a few days as the minerals in the teeth will usually replenish all their minerals in a short amount of time.

However, there may be a few cases in which the teeth remain sensitive even after a few days, in such cases the patient should follow the following steps:

1. Use toothpaste for sensitive teeth

The patient can opt for a toothpaste that is specifically designed to calm down tooth sensitivity. Such toothpastes contain ingredients like nitrates, fluoride, chlorides, etc. ingredients that block the pain receptors that respond to sensations, like cold, extreme heat, etc.

They start showing their effect by desensitizing the teeth to such sensations within a few weeks of their use. Also, they are safe to use and extremely convenient. They do not cause any irritation when used on sensitive teeth, unlike normal toothpastes.

The toothpaste must be used twice a day with gentle brushing for a few weeks for effective desensitization of teeth. Also, the chemicals used in such toothpaste do not have any health hazards and are safe to use.

2. Avoid harmful food items

Foods that are too hot or too cold, extremely spicy or sweet foods, sour tasting foods, etc. food items can increase sensitivity and cause discomfort.

Even beverages like coffee, sodas, etc. can increase sensitivity and can damage teeth further. Acidic food items can also accelerate tooth enamel depletion and cause sensitivity.

To avoid discomfort and damage to teeth, these foods should be consumed as frequently as possible and caution should be maintained while eating them.

3. Mouth guards

If the patient has recently received a teeth whitening treatment and is experiencing sensitivity, mouth guards may be recommended. A mouth guard is a protective dental equipment that is used to prevent crushing and grinding of teeth, usually at night-time. This crushing and grinding is commonly known as bruxism and can hasten tooth sensitivity.

It also protects the mouth from injuries and external hazards. Mouth guards for sensitive teeth are usually customized and made from soft material so it does not hurt as sensitive teeth are very fragile. Customized night guards are prepared using a mould. The original hard ones can damage the teeth and can increase sensitivity.

After wearing a mouth guard, if the patient notices a decrease in the level of tooth sensitivity, he or she may switch to the hard mouth guard. Also, if the patient already suffers from high levels of bruxism, wearing a hard mouth guard from the beginning is recommended.

4. Using gentle toothbrushes

Just like toothpaste, soft toothbrushes are also available in the market. Such toothbrushes have very gentle bristles that clean the surface of teeth without causing pain and irritation. They allow the replenishment of the minerals of the teeth. Normal toothbrushes are too abrasive for sensitive teeth and may cause more harm than good as they do not allow the minerals to accumulate, further damaging the teeth. Such toothbrushes can also be too harsh for gum tissue surface. Using a softer, more gentle toothbrush will not only protect the sensitive teeth but will keep the gums safe as well.

5. Desensitizing procedure

If the patient is experiencing severe, long-lasting teeth sensitivity, the dentist may recommend desensitizing the teeth with help of bonding agents available on the market. These bonding agents are usually composite minerals, applied to the sensitive area with the help of a little brush. The material is then allowed to dry. This application strengthens the enamel and desensitizes the teeth. The patient may require the dentist’s help to apply the bonding agent over the teeth. This procedure only lasts for a few minutes and gives long-lasting results.

6. Root canal

Just like a desensitizing procedure, a root canal procedure is performed only when the patient is experiencing severe and prolonged tooth sensitivity. This procedure is the most efficient and professional way of eliminating tooth sensitivity. If the tissue of the pulp is affected by the bleaching process, then it is removed with this procedure.

In a root canal procedure, first anaesthesia is administered on the gum tissue area which is to be desensitized. Then a dental dam is placed over the same area to keep it isolated and dry. This helps the dentist in concentrating on the tooth. A small hole is drilled into the enamel to reach the dental pulp. The affected pulp, blood vessels, and tissues are removed with the help of specialized dental equipment. The pulp chamber is then cleaned, disinfected, and sealed. The empty canal cavities are then filled with gutta-percha, a dental filling. A crown is placed over this filling to protect it from outside pressure, microbial attacks, and chemical secretions. This crown is custom-made and takes a few weeks for preparation, until then a temporary filling is placed as a cover.