Tooth whitening is one of the most common cosmetic dental procedures.
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Dental Article 🔽 Causes and Treatment of Dental Hypersensitivity: Updated Insights ... Dental hypersensitivity (DH) is defined as a transient, sharp pain arising from exposed dentin in response to external stimuli, which cannot be attributed to any other dental pathology.However, many patients experience sensitivity during or after treatment. This guide provides clear dos and don’ts to help minimize discomfort and maintain oral health.
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✅ What Causes Whitening Sensitivity?
Sensitivity is usually linked to:
° Temporary exposure of dentin through enamel pores.
° Penetration of peroxide-based whitening agents into the tooth.
° Pre-existing enamel wear or gum recession.
📊 Comparison Table: Teeth Whitening Sensitivity — Dos and Don’ts
| Aspect | Dos | Don’ts |
|---|---|---|
| Diet | Eat soft, non-acidic foods and stay hydrated with water. | Avoid citrus, soda, coffee, and very hot or cold drinks. |
| Oral hygiene | Brush gently with fluoride toothpaste and a soft toothbrush. | Do not use abrasive toothpaste or brush too hard after whitening. |
| Relief methods | Apply desensitizing gels or use rinses with potassium nitrate. | Avoid unproven home remedies or self-medicating. |
| Whitening habits | Follow dentist’s instructions and space whitening sessions. | Do not overuse whitening kits or exceed recommended times. |
✅ Practical Tips to Reduce Sensitivity
° Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid additional enamel wear.
° Avoid extremely hot or cold foods after whitening.
° Apply fluoride gels or sensitivity-reducing products as recommended by your dentist.
° Consider in-office whitening, which is safer and more controlled than over-the-counter kits.
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Video 🔽 How is internal teeth whitening? ... The procedure to perform internal teeth whitening is simple but different from whitening teeth without endodontics (vital teeth). On endodontic teeth, the whitening gel is placed inside the teeth.✍️ Conclusion
Tooth sensitivity after whitening is common but manageable. By following the recommended dos and don’ts, you can achieve a brighter smile without compromising comfort or oral health.
📚 Reference
✔ Carey, C. M. (2014). Tooth whitening: What we now know. Journal of Evidence-Based Dental Practice, 14(Suppl), 70–76. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jebdp.2014.02.006
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