Tooth sensitivity usually goes away and can also be treated depending on the cause. Often, teeth become sensitive after procedures such as fillings or root canal therapy (RCT), and in procedures like this, tooth sensitivity usually goes away on its own. However, in some cases, the sensitivity needs to be treated by a dentist.
This article discusses tooth sensitivity after whitening and chipped tooth sensitivity and how you can prevent such sensitivity.
What causes tooth sensitivity?
Some people naturally have more sensitive teeth than others because of thin enamel. The enamel layer is the outermost layer that protects the teeth from elements causing cavities.
Sensitivity can occur due to the following:
- Brushing your teeth very hard
- Using a hard toothbrush
- Grinding your teeth during the night
- Regular consumption of acidic foods or beverages
Sometimes tooth decay, broken teeth, chipped teeth, or crowns can expose the tooth’s dentin, causing sensitivity.
Does tooth sensitivity go away after whitening
Although teeth whitening is very safe and effective, it is normal to experience tooth sensitivity after whitening. The sensitivity typically lasts for a few days after a whitening treatment, but it is temporary; however, it can still cause some discomfort for the first few days after the procedure.
Steps to prevent sensitivity after your teeth whitening treatment
By following the steps below after the whitening procedure, you can shorten the duration and intensity of your tooth sensitivity:
- Try to avoid hot and cold foods and drinks
The tooth sensitivity will peak during your treatment’s first two to three days. These days, ensure not to take foods and beverages that are very hot or way cold. Try to consume room-temperature foods and drinks.
- Avoid acidic foods and drinks.
Acidic foods and drinks like sodas or citrus fruits can irritate your mouth and increase its sensitivity.
- Brush gently
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, and if possible, try to rinse with lukewarm water to minimize the sensitivity.
- Use fluoride products
Toothpaste and mouthwashes containing fluoride help remineralize your teeth and block the pain signals to your oral nerves.
Does chipped tooth sensitivity go away?
You may want to ignore a chipped tooth when not in pain. However, whether you feel pain or not, avoiding chipped tooth sensitivity is not a good idea as it may lead to worse consequences.
Untreated chipped teeth make your front tooth weak with time and eventually break. Furthermore, it can lead to unwanted pain. When your roots are exposed, your teeth will become more sensitive to cold temperatures.
Symptoms of chipped teeth are hard to notice; they are only visible if your chip cuts deep and exposes the nerves on the interior layers of the damaged teeth.
Even if there is no pain or if the pain does not go away, not fixing your chipped teeth increases the risk of infection or tooth decay.
Chipped tooth treatment
Ice or cold compressing will ease pain, bleeding or swelling if you have chipped your teeth. Until the chipped tooth is fixed, avoid chewing on the affected side if your tooth has become very tender.
Furthermore, you can refrain from consuming sticky foods and drinks as they may stick to broken teeth and cause more damage.
Various tooth sensitivity treatments can help repair your chipped teeth, such as dental reshaping or dental fillings; dental crowns can also help protect and restore broken teeth.
Bottom line
Tooth sensitivity after tooth whitening treatment or due to chipped teeth is normal and can be avoided or treated. If it becomes severe and the pain is unbearable, you can best consult your dentist and get your tooth sensitivity treated as soon as possible. Another way is to avoid foods that are too hot or too cold when there is a feeling of tooth sensitivity in the mouth.