Most people would love to be sporting a brighter, whiter smile, but they assume that tooth sensitivity is an issue. If cold drinks or hot coffee cause you to wince, then part of your mind likely questions whether professional teeth whitening even exists. That’s why so many patients who are interested in teeth whitening Oklahoma City often wonder if safe solutions are available.
Luckily, having sensitivity won’t automatically disqualify you from professional whitening treatments. Today’s dentistry has many methodologies designed directly for the sensitive patient, so you still receive the smile that you’re looking for, keeping your comfort. However, it’s important to learn whether your sensitivity is a sign of a deeper problem at Reflections Dental Care.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity is most common when the protective layer coating your teeth erodes or the gum recedes, leaving the dentin layer open. Dentin is a layer that has small tubes that connect directly to the nerve center of your teeth. As the tubes come into contact with temperature shifts, sweet treats, or acidic food, they cause sharp, painful moments.
The most common causes of problems are the result of abrasive brushing, teeth clenching, acidic foods/drinks, gum problems, or simple wear over time. Identifying the reason behind your sensitivity then determines the best whitening procedure appropriate to your case that your dentist will choose. Does the dentist whiten your teeth? The answer is yes, and our dentists play a key role in tailoring the approach for each patient.
Commercial Whitening Solutions for Sensitive Teeth
Mild Whitening Agents
Our professional dental offices can customize whitening treatments using lower-concentration whitening agents specifically formulated for sensitive teeth. These gentler formulations typically contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide at reduced strengths, which still effectively remove stains while minimizing discomfort.
Your dentist will recommend longer duration treatments with these mild solutions rather than stronger concentrations that are used during routine treatments. This avoids fast bleaching yet gives your teeth a chance to adjust. These recommendations often follow teeth whitening step-by-step processes created especially for sensitivity concerns.
Desensitizing Treatments
Before any whitening procedure is initiated, our professionals may apply desensitizing preparations over your teeth. These desensitizing preparations may include potassium nitrate or fluoride, which discourage the pathways to the nerves as well as help fortify tooth enamel.
Some dentists also want patients to use desensitizing toothpaste several weeks prior to the whitening process. This build-up time will assist in reducing sensitivity during the procedure as well as post-procedure.
Advanced Laser Whitening with Controls
Most current laser whitening systems also come equipped with temperature controls and sensitivity monitoring. These sophisticated technologies enable us to be specific about the strength and time frame of the procedure, making adjustments to the procedure as needed based on your sensation.
Certain laser systems also include desensitizing agents as part of the treatment regimen, offering protection during the duration of the whitening procedure. No matter the method, your care team should always be transparent about the stages of teeth whitening and what to expect at each point.
Your Journey Towards a Brighter Smile Begins Today
Sensitivity needn’t come between your teeth and your whitening goals. Personalized professional attention from Reflections Dental Care offers multiple paths to a brighter smile while still allowing for your preference regarding freedom from discomfort and oral health.
It’s all about seeing a professional dentist who is capable of discussing your actual issues of sensitivity and recommending the most appropriate method of treatment. They will be capable of assessing the level of your sensitivity, discovering sources, and coming up with a customized whitening program that gets the job done without jeopardizing your comfort.
Do not be prevented from the smile that confidently belongs to you just because of sensitivity. Have a consultation with our friendly team to determine your whitening choices and learn about the professional procedure that may be most effective for your specific case!