Are Teeth Whitening Treatments Painful

Are Teeth Whitening Treatments Painful? from Dentistry on Park, LLC in Stoughton, MATeeth whitening treatments are a popular cosmetic treatment that can significantly improve the way your teeth look after a single treatment session. These treatments are not painful, but there are some side effects or complications that can develop as a result of the treatment. These can lead to discomfort or pain.

Teeth whitening treatments are done using bleaching agents like hydrogen carbamide or hydrogen peroxide. These chemicals can penetrate the inner layers of teeth, removing stains from within and the exterior of teeth.

Professional whitening treatments performed by dentists involve using highly concentrated bleaching agents that can contain up to 20% hydrogen peroxide. Such high-concentrated products are harsher on teeth and can only be used with the supervision of a dentist.

What to expect when getting teeth whitening treatments

Professional teeth whitening treatments performed by a dentist rarely lead to any pain. The complications that can arise as a result of whitening treatments are typically due to existing dental issues like tooth decay and gum disease. Dentists evaluate their patients’ mouths before clearing them for whitening treatments to prevent such problems.

The most common side effect associated with whitening treatments is increased sensitivity to hot and cold foods/beverages. This is caused by enamel being weakened by the process. It is typically a temporary condition that should go away within 48 hours. It can be managed with over-the-counter teeth desensitizing products.

Teeth whitening treatments are typically done with customized mouth trays. These mouth trays help to keep the patient’s teeth evenly covered with the bleaching product and they also prevent it from getting into the gum tissues where it can lead to burns and irritation. The mouth tray is made from an impression of the patient’s mouth that is sent to a lab where oral appliances are made.

OTC products

Trying to whiten teeth using over-the-counter whitening products is more likely to lead to complications. Common complications that can develop as a result of using DIY whitening products include:

  • Inflammation of pulp tissues of teeth with cracked or exposed dentin
  • Burns or irritation caused by the whitening product getting on soft tissues like the gums
  • Stomach bleeding, distention, or irritation due to swallowing the whitening product

Whitening products sold OTC tend to have lower concentrations (as low as 6%) of hydrogen peroxide or hydrogen carbamide to reduce the risk of these issues. As a result, it takes longer to whiten teeth with these products since they are not as concentrated as the products used by dentists.

Keeping teeth white

Improving the color of teeth with whitening treatments does not mean it will stay that way forever. The patient’s teeth will still be exposed to things that can stain them and new stains and discoloration will eventually form. Simple ways to keep teeth stain-free between whitening treatments include:

  • Practice good oral hygiene
  • Get professional teeth cleanings
  • Avoid foods and drinks with strong colors
  • Use a straw when drinking colored beverages
  • Stop smoking
  • Use teeth whitening toothpaste once a week

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Teeth Whitening in Stoughton, MA

Get whiter teeth

Ready to restore your teeth’s original white color? Give us a call or visit our Stoughton clinic to learn more about the teeth whitening process.

Request an appointment or call Dentistry on Park, LLC at 781-443-8131 for an appointment in our Stoughton office.

Recent Posts

Comparing Take Home Trays Vs. In Office Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening trays are effective and convenient options for achieving a brighter smile. In-office whitening is efficient in making teeth whiter. Both procedures bring results. Understanding them well can help you decide which treatment is for you. If you want to know more about in-office and take-home teeth whitening trays, here are the details.It is…

What To Do Before A Teeth Whitening Treatment

Teeth whitening involves the application of a whitening agent to brighten your smile. Before the procedure, there are some things you can do to help you properly prepare for treatment. This review discusses how you can prepare before a teeth whitening treatment to ensure the safest and most effective results.Every patient will have a unique…

The Different Types Of Teeth Whitening Treatments

Teeth whitening treatments are one of the most popular cosmetic treatments used in dentistry, and it often leaves people with a noticeably whiter smile. The procedure is typically performed using bleaching agents like hydrogen peroxide to remove stains from deep inside teeth.Teeth whitening treatments are effective on the most common types of stains, like those…

Recent Posts

Denture Repair When They Break

Denture Repair When They Break

A denture repair should be your top priority when your denture breaks or becomes damaged. This prosthetic device fills out all the empty spaces in your mouth. It is crucial to care for your denture since the missing teeth can compromise your eating habits, speech, and appearance. This dental device is durable enough to handle…

Kids And Tooth Extraction: What To Expect

Kids And Tooth Extraction: What To Expect

Tooth extraction can be a daunting prospect for anyone, let alone children. Fortunately, our team can help parents learn everything they need to know about tooth extraction. As a parent, it is natural to be concerned about your child's well-being during a medical procedure. Knowing what to expect before, during, and after this common dental…