You can’t live without your smile. But what if you’re feeling like your teeth aren’t as stunning as you’d like them to be? Professional teeth whitening can bring shine and pizzazz back to your smile, even if you have sensitive teeth. Some treatments can increase sensitivity or even cause pain, so relying on your dentist- instead of at-home products- is always the best route to go. Oral health issues- such as cavities or receding gums- need to be addressed by your dentist before your teeth can be safely whitened, as you don’t want to cause further any further damage. He/she has a few treatment method options to help bring out a patient’s pearly whites without causing pain. But first, consider what is causing the sensitivity to begin with.
Causes of Sensitive Teeth
Sensitive teeth are a pain. Literally. When you suffer from excessive tooth sensitivity, certain basic activities, such as eating, drinking, and brushing, can become extremely burdensome. This condition typically develops as a result of worn tooth enamel. Having receding gums, which exposes the roots of the teeth, can also be the culprit. Sometimes, the discomfort can be caused by other factors, such as a cracked tooth, unfilled cavity, a filling that has worn out, or some gum diseases, like gingivitis. Dealing with these conditions first is the only way to address the sensitivity. This guarantees that the whitening process is not for nothing.
Professional Whitening Treatment
Allowing your dentist to complete a whitening treatment will give you more noticeable results faster. The dentist will be able to monitor the process and make any necessary changes to ensure that the patient’s teeth stay safe throughout the procedure. Gels that desensitize the teeth can be applied while the whitening treatment is working by means of a retractor. This device exposes the teeth, making it easier for the dentist to apply either resin or a rubber material on to the gums. After this, a bleaching gel will set on the teeth for around half an hour, whitening the teeth and brightening the smile in under an hour. A professional teeth whitening is more effective, personal, and longer-lasting than take-home products. Your dentist will provide follow-up information on best practices for maintaining your new smile.
Porcelain Veneers
For those with sensitive teeth that also have stains, porcelain veneers might be a more viable option. Veneers are applied to the outside of the natural teeth, covering up stains and imperfections. They can cover chips and cracks which activate pain during chewing, drinking, and brushing, as well. Veneers are also resistant to stains and are long-lasting. Talk to your dentist to see if veneers are the right choice for you.
Do More to Maintain Your Whitened Smile
Whether you undergo a traditional whitening treatment or opt for veneers, we want to make sure you can take the steps necessary to prolonging the amazing effects. Be sure to brush or at least rinse your mouth immediately after consuming staining foods and beverages, such as coffee, tea, wine, and tomatoes. This also goes for sugary and acidic food and drinks that are likely to break down your enamel, weakening the teeth and causing them to become more and more sensitive.
However, there are some foods that can help fight off stains. Yogurt, cheese, celery, and apples are tooth-healthy options to keep your smile shining bright. In addition to being poor for your health, smoking can also produce stains quickly, as do other tobacco products, and, as such, you should avoid at all costs. A dazzling white smile is possible, even if you have the most sensitive or damaged teeth. Talk to your local Arizona dentist about your options for getting the best new you possible in no time at all.
