Teeth Sensitivity After Whitening: Causes and Management Tips

Under the enamel lies the dentin, which is a softer layer tSome desires are universal- like having a gleaming white smile. However, if you are someone who whitens their teeth, you may have experienced some tooth sensitivity, which can result in that cringe worthy pain many of us know all too well. 

In this article, we’ll explain why this happens, and what you can do about it. Read on to learn more about: 

• Why teeth become sensitive after whitening 
• How to minimize discomfort after whitening 
• When you should see a dentist 
• How to safely whiten your teeth to avoid sensitivity 

Let's get into it!

Understanding Sensitivity 

To fully understand why our teeth can become sensitive after whitening, it is first important to understand the makeup of our teeth. 

The outer layer, called the enamel, is a strong layer which protects the underlying tooth from damage. It is also the layer that can become stained due to the food and drinks we consume. 

That contains small nerves. These nerves which transmit pain in response to hot/cold temperatures, and physical touch. This layer has a slight yellow hue, which can show through the enamel. 

The dentin protects the innermost layer, sometimes referred to the root, called the pulp. The pulp contains blood vessels, nerves and is responsible for bringing nutrients to the rest of the tooth. 

Now that we know the makeup of our teeth, we can understand what causes tooth sensitivity after whitening. 

Why Are My Teeth Sensitive After Whitening? 

If you have used harsh whitening products, or use whitening products frequently, you have likely experienced tooth sensitivity. For most people this presents as pain in response to drinking hot drinks, biting into an ice cream, or a wincing discomfort when touching your teeth. 

There are two main reasons why you may be experiencing tooth sensitivity after whitening: 

Chemical Reactions 

Chemicals found in many teeth whitening products, such as peroxides, work by dissolving a small layer of the outer enamel. This removes the superficial stains found on the enamel, revealing a whiter layer underneath. 

However, if you have weak, or thin enamel, the peroxides used in some products are strong enough to erode the enamel and expose the underlying dentin. 

If you remember, the dentin is the layer underneath the enamel, which contains nerves. When exposed, these nerves transmit pain signals in response to temperature changes, and physical touch, which we call sensitivity. 

Temporary Irritation

Some whitening products contain ingredients that will, by nature, irritate your teeth and gums. Whilst this irritation can contribute to tooth sensitivity, it is often temporary. 

Tooth and gum irritation usually subsides within a few days after whitening. This is accompanied by a relief in tooth sensitivity as your teeth and gums begin to recover. 

Minimizing Discomfort 

If you are experiencing some tooth sensitivity after whitening your teeth, it can be just as disheartening as it is uncomfortable. However, there are many practical steps you can take to minimize this discomfort. 

Temperature Control 

If you suffer from tooth sensitivity, then it will be no secret that ice cream, and hot tea are the enemy. 

One of the best things you can do if you are experiencing discomfort after whitening your teeth is to avoid hot or cold food and drinks. This helps your teeth and gums to recover if they are irritated, and stops the nerves from sending pain signals. 

Adopting a Gentle Diet 

Diet plays a large role when it comes to determining our teeth’s health. When experiencing tooth sensitivity, what we eat and drinks also influences the extent of the sensitivity. 

There are certain foods you can avoid, and some which you should increase in order to relieve tooth sensitivity. 

Avoid: 

• Acidic food and beverages such as fruit, carbonated drinks and sweets 
• Food and drinks which are high in sugar 

Eat More: 

• Dairy containing food and drinks, which help protect your teeth 
• Leafy greens which contains vitamins that support dental health 
• Nuts and seeds which help protect your teeth and stimulate saliva production 
• Water to help rinse your mouth of irritants that contribute to sensitivity 

Sensitive Toothpaste 

Using toothpaste which is designed to minimize tooth sensitivity is a great way to get relief from the discomfort felt after tooth whitening. 

Sensitive toothpaste often contains ingredients which desensitize teeth to pain. They also help to remineralize teeth and strengthen the enamel, protecting the underlying dentin layer, which is responsible for generating pain signals. Some toothpaste also contains anti-inflammatory ingredients which helps ease pain felt by the gums after whitening. 

Toothpaste such as the Boka n-Ha toothpaste helps to combat sensitivity by remineralizing the enamel, closing small pores on the teeth, protecting our teeth from sensitivity. 

Gentle Brushing 

Many of us are unaware that our teeth brushing technique has a huge impact on how sensitive our teeth are. 

In order to protect our enamel, especially after tooth whitening it is important to brush with gentle, circular motions. It is also best to use a soft bristles toothbrush. Using a hard toothbrush damages enamel, and can result in worsening tooth sensitivity. 

Patients should continue brushing their teeth on a regular basis following teeth-whitening procedures because it's one of the most crucial parts of a healthy oral hygiene regimen. Nonetheless, research suggests that patients should stay away from tooth brushing for at least a few hours following a teeth-whitening procedure.

Use Mouthwash 

Apply a hydroxyapatite-containing mouthwash twice a day, right before bed, to sensitive teeth. It will relieve discomfort and assist in calming any sensitive regions. 

When to See a Dentist

Pain in any way, shape, or form can be distressing. Whilst tooth sensitivity is common, it can occasionally be a sign that something more sinister is happening. 

If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, you should see a dentist if you experience: 

1. Severe pain

Whilst tooth sensitivity is painful, severe pain, which prevents you from eating may be a sign of a more severe underlying dental condition.

If you experience pain that is severe enough to warrant painkillers, keep you up at night, or prevent you from eating, it is time to see a dentist. 

2. Pain that lasts longer than a week

Tooth sensitivity usually subsides in a few days. It will also often get better after using home remedies, such as sensitive toothpaste.

However, if it is not getting better, it may also be a sign that there is an underlying dental condition that needs medical attention. If the tooth sensitivity has lasted over a week, it is best to book in for a dental check up. 

3. Loose teeth

As an adult, experiencing loose, or ‘wobbly’ teeth is not normal. It is often a sign of dental diseases which require urgent medical attention.

If ignored, it may result in losing a tooth. If you experience tooth sensitivity, and loose teeth, it is important to book an urgent appointment with the dentist. 

4. Fever or signs of infection

Tooth pain and sensitivity can be a symptom of dental abscesses and infection. If you are experiencing signs of infection such as pus around your teeth, fever, lack of energy and bad breath, it is a sign you should see a dentist. 

5. Gum bleeding

If you use very harsh whitening products it may damage your gums. If your gums are bleeding, such as after brushing your teeth, and are not better after a week, it is best to visit a dentist. 

How to Safely Whiten Your Teeth 

Whilst tooth whitening can cause sensitivity, there are products which are designed to minimize the effect of whitening on the enamel, which protects the underlying teeth from the effects of tooth sensitivity. 

Use Gentle Products 

Not all tooth whitening products are made the same. Many tooth whitening products contain harsh chemicals such as peroxides, which work by dissolving a small amount of the enamel from the surface of our teeth. 

If you are prone to tooth sensitivity, but do not want to give up your pursuit of a glowing smile, try our highly rated whitening toothpaste. 

The Boka Whitening n-Ha toothpaste is peroxide free, and instead uses natural ingredients such as baking soda, which helps to buff away surface stains. It also uniquely uses n-Ha, which closes microscopic gaps in our teeth, and helps our teeth reflect white light, helping them appear brighter without eroding the enamel. 

Similarly, the Boka teeth whitening kit uses a gel formula containing Phthalimido-Peroxy-Caproic Acid (PAP), a clinically studied enamel-safe whitener. This whitener targets and eliminates compounds that cause teeth discoloration.

Additionally, nano-hydroxyapatite (n-Ha) in the formula remineralizes teeth and reduces tooth sensitivity. The LED-activated whitening technology accelerates the whitening process for faster, long-lasting results, and it is pain-free.

Avoid Over Whitening 

It can be tempting to abuse whitening products, especially once you start seeing results. However, the guides on whitening products are there to protect your teeth. 

If you start experiencing tooth sensitivity, it is important to take a break from whitening, even if you are following the whitening product’s guidelines. 

You should also remember that our teeth have a natural yellow hue. When you start using whitening products, it is important to have realistic expectations when it comes to your teeth’s appearance. 

If bleaching causes your teeth to become sensitive after whitening, it may be beneficial to reduce the number of whitening sessions. In this case, it is best to wait until after the initial treatment before getting another session if you have sensitive teeth. 

If the sensitivity does not go away completely or returns immediately after a second session, it is advisable to try a different type of whitening treatment. This advice also applies to sensitive teeth whitening procedures.

The Bottom Line

Most whitening products work by removing surface stains, which are found on the outer layer of our teeth. Unfortunately, this can expose the inner layers of our teeth, which can cause tooth sensitivity. 

It is important to take care when whitening your teeth, and using products that are safe and effective. However, if you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, it is important to know what symptoms to look out for, which may indicate a more serious dental problem which requires medical attention. 

If you are looking for whitening products, try our Whitening Collection, which is designed to gently whiten teeth, without harming your precious smile.