Can I Get My Teeth Whitened if I Have Sensitive Teeth?

In the past if you had sensitive teeth, options for achieving a bright smile have been lacking. But dental technology advances quickly, and today, there are many avenues one can take to brighten their sensitive teeth.

Causes of Tooth Sensitivity

Teeth can become sensitive due to several factors, including:

• Receding gums

• Thin tooth enamel

• Periodontitis

• Brushing habits

• Cracked teeth

• Teeth grinding

• Gingivitis

Consult Your Dentist First

Whether you have sensitive teeth or not, you should always consult your dentist first before trying any whitening treatments. Your dentist may conclude that whitening is not possible for your teeth at this moment. If this is the case, you can try fluoride treatments and enamel strengthening toothpastes to help with sensitivity and get your teeth healthy enough for whitening in the future.

Get a Teeth Cleaning

Another alternative to teeth whitening is a professional teeth cleaning by your dentist. Dentists use polishing gels to clean teeth, which can remove surface stains. If your teeth are too sensitive for a whitening treatment, ask your dentist for a cleaning.

How to Whiten Sensitive Teeth

If your dentist has determined it safe to whiten your teeth, you can choose between at-home whiteners or a professional treatment.

If you choose an at-home whitening treatment, choose one made specifically for sensitive teeth. You may also consider reducing the application time to minimize irritation.

A professional whitening treatment, while more expensive, can be the best solution for sensitive teeth. Your dentist will pay special attention throughout the process to make sure your gums and teeth are safe. They can also offer desensitizing gels to reduce any discomfort.

If you are looking for whitening options for your sensitive teeth, schedule an appointment with Cascade Dental Care. We can help determine the best whitening plan for you.