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Can whitening treatments cause sensitivity?
Tooth whitening treatments are becoming increasingly popular in the US. The ingredients in the products used for whitening are usually hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These are usually administered through a specially made tray (similar to a gum-shield). As the whitening agent is broken down, oxygen gets into the enamel on the teeth, which lightens the tooth color.
A widely reported side effect of such treatment is tooth sensitivity. There is no exact science to predicting if you will experience sensitivity but reports suggest that it will be experienced in up to 80% of patients using bleaching. It is recommended that you use Sensodyne 2 weeks before treatment to reduce the chances of getting whitening-related sensitivity. Ensure you discuss this with your dentist prior to any treatment.
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