Can Teeth Whitening Cause Pain?

Although teeth whitening treatments normally do not cause any pain, people with sensitive teethmay feel some pain or discomfort when bleaching agents are put onto their surface. Prior to starting teeth whitening treatment, you should speak to your dentist about whether teeth whitening is right for you.

Possible Side-Effects of Teeth Whitening

Your dentist will explain all the potential side-effects you may experience due to teeth whitening before you start the treatment. This includes sensitivity to hot and cold foods and drinks, and feeling a small shock-like sensation on your teeth.

Such effects should last no more than 48 hours after the treatment. Your dentist may provide you with a desensitising product, such as a gel or toothpaste for sensitive teeth.If you still feel pain or discomfort after 48 hours, get in touch with your dentist as soon as possible.

What Are the Potential Risks of Teeth Whitening?

• Inflammation in pulp that is cracked or has exposed dentine.
• Burning or irritation due to the bleaching agent touching the gums, skin, eyes or mucous membranes.
• Irritation in the throat and stomach if the teeth whitening substance is swallowed, including potential bleeding or swelling.

Alternative Treatments to Teeth Whitening

If youprefer other alternatives to a teeth bleaching treatment, your dentist will be able to suggest other waysto whiten your teeth,such as:

• Improving the state of your oral hygiene to minimise how much plaque your teeth have (plaque can darken teeth and lead to tooth decay)
• Visiting your dentist regularly for a teeth cleaning treatment to clean discoloured teeth.
• Having porcelain or composite veneers fitted over the teeth to alter their colour.

How to Avoid Staining Your Teeth

To reduce how much staining your teeth incur, there are some methods you can follow to potentially make teeth whitening unnecessary. These methods include:

• Avoid consuming strongly coloured foods and drinks, such as coffee, tea, red wine, beetroot, and tomato sauces.
• Use a straw to drink tominimise how much contact liquids have with the front teeth.
• Stop smoking.
• Attend regular dental appointments.

Find Out MoreToday

If you have any concerns about teeth whitening, contact Dental on Clarendon to schedule an appointment with our dentist. Call our clinic today on (03) 9690 3285.