There are several different options for whitening teeth, including over-the-counter options that contain peroxide. These teeth whitening options penetrate the enamel to oxidize colored compounds in the dentin – the dense tissue that comprises a majority of a tooth’s structure. When dentin is oxidized, fluids in its tubules can shift, resulting in sensitivity both to touch and to stimuli such as hot or cold liquids. In some cases, sensitivity can be so extreme that the simple act of breathing causes pain – and this is to say nothing of the irritation peroxide can cause to sensitive oral tissue, lips, and gums.
Part of the problem with over-the-counter teeth whitening options is the delivery mechanism. Even boil-and-bite mouthguards will not fully conform to the teeth, which allows bleaching solution to spill out. Part of the problem also lies with the solution itself, which is designed to produce swift results, but not designed with optimal patient comfort in mind.
How to Keep Teeth from Hurting After Whitening
The best way to prevent tooth sensitivity from teeth whitening is by working with a cosmetic dentist who offers professional solutions designed to minimize sensitivity. Houston cosmetic dentist Dr. Ronald Konig uses DayWhite & NightWhite, incredibly effective hydrogen peroxide teeth whitening treatments that have been formulated with amorphous calcium phosphate, potassium nitrate, and fluoride. Amorphous calcium phosphate and potassium nitrate both work to reduce sensitivity. Fluoride works to strengthen enamel. This combination is particularly effective at eliminating the pain many teeth whitening products produce.
In addition to solutions formulated to reduce sensitivity and strengthen the teeth, the tooth bleaching options at the Konig Center for Cosmetic and Comprehensive Dentistry come with customized application trays that are expertly matched to the shape and size of each tooth in your mouth. This reduces risks of solution seepage while helping to ensure every tooth in your mouth is evenly whitened. Compared to whitening strips that only bleach the front teeth or application trays that allow bleaching solution to irritate soft tissue, these custom-created application trays are far and above over-the-counter options – and they’re yours to keep for a lifetime.
Other Tooth Whitening options
In some cases, discoloration is not responsive to topical tooth bleaching. In these situations, applying a teeth whitener will only heighten stains by lightening the surrounding enamel. This is another key reason to choose a cosmetic dentist for teeth whitening.
If your stains will be unresponsive to teeth whitening, Dr. Konig can provide you with additional options, including porcelain veneers and dental bonding, that can be used on single teeth as needed, to help ensure your tooth whitening procedure produces the most desirable results. During your initial consultation at our Houston office, Dr. Konig can assess the types of tooth stains you have and help you determine which treatment options will best meet your needs.
To schedule a consultation at the Konig Center for Cosmetic and Comprehensive Dentistry, please call 713-668-2289 today. Dr. Konig is an award-winning dentist serving The Woodlands, Katy, Sugar Land, and all surrounding Texas communities.