No Ice: Why You Should Avoid Cold Stuff After Teeth Whitening

Tooth sensitivity is common when tooth enamel, which is meant to protect the teeth, thins out. Sensitivity can also occur when the gums start to recede and the underlying surface of the teeth is exposed. You may notice that cold foods and liquids give you discomfort. Teeth may also be sensitive to heat, acidic foods, and even cold air. Sometimes, people who have just had a whitening treatment experience sensitivity.

Teeth Sensitivity

People who have had a teeth whitening procedure often experience sensitivity to cold foods and liquids. Sensitivity is common if a peroxide-based bleaching agent was used for whitening. It’s also likely to occur if your teeth were already sensitive starting out; whitening can make them even more sensitive than before.

Sensitivity is usually only a problem during the first stages of the bleaching treatment because the hydrogen peroxide soaks through the tooth enamel, which can expose the nerves underneath. Tooth sensitivity is temporary and will eventually go away on its own. However, to ease the discomfort, you can use a desensitizing agent up to 30 minutes before and after the whitening treatment.

You may also notice bright white spots on your teeth following a whitening treatment. The spots aren’t actually a result of the whitening; they were present before, they just weren’t as noticeable. These white spots are hypo-calcified enamel which don’t disappear during the whitening process.

Whitening is one of the best options for getting rid of surface stains and discoloration. With so many options and procedures, you should be able to have your whitening without suffering from needless sensitivity. Talk with your dentist about a whitening treatment and desensitizing products that will help.