Most patients experience some degree of tooth sensitivity after professional tooth whitening. This is not a complication — it's a predictable and usually short-lived response to the whitening agent.
Why It Happens
Teeth whitening products use hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide to break down stains inside the tooth. These agents penetrate the enamel and reach the dentine layer, where they can irritate the nerve endings. In the process, the peroxide may temporarily open the microscopic tubules in the dentine that connect to the nerve — allowing cold, heat, and pressure to reach the nerve more easily.
Gum sensitivity can also occur if the whitening tray isn't perfectly fitted and the gel contacts the soft tissue. This typically resolves within a few days too.
How Long Does It Last?
For most patients, sensitivity peaks around the first 24-48 hours and resolves within 72 hours. If you're using at-home whitening products, following the schedule too frequently (e.g., whitening multiple nights in a row) can extend and intensify the sensitivity.
Managing the Sensitivity
Use a desensitising toothpaste containing potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride — these help calm the nerve. Avoid very cold or very hot foods and drinks for the first 48 hours. If you're using at-home trays, try reducing the wear time or frequency until the sensitivity settles. We can also prescribe a higher fluoride gel to use alongside your whitening treatment.
If sensitivity persists beyond a week or is severe in intensity, contact us — there may be an underlying issue (like a crack or existing gum recession) that needs to be addressed before continuing treatment.
If any of this sounds familiar, book an assessment with us. The sooner we take a look, the simpler the treatment is likely to be. Call the practice on 01323 723757 or book online at www.meadsdental.com.