Closeup of smiling female mouth shows white and attractive teethYellow or darkened teeth can detract from an otherwise healthy smile. Teeth whitening treatments can brighten your smile by gently lifting stains from your enamel.

At Dr. Steven Hochfelder’s practice in Lake Mary, FL, patients have access to two proven teeth whitening options: Philips Zoom! and NiteWhite®. No matter what your teeth whitening goals are, Dr. Hochfelder and our dental team can customize a cosmetic treatment plan that whitens your smile by several shades. But many of our patients have questions about tooth sensitivity and teeth whitening, so we offer this overview.

Will Teeth Whitening Leave My Teeth Feeling More Sensitive?

Teeth whitening treatments are safe and effective cosmetic treatments. One potential side effect of whitening treatment is heightened sensitivity.

Following your whitening treatment (either at our Lake Mary office or home), you may notice that your teeth are more sensitive to hot or cold temperatures. This is a normal side effect that will subside as your teeth adjust to the treatment.

In general, patients who experience tooth sensitivity following teeth whitening have a history of sensitive teeth. If you ever feel discomfort when consuming cold food or drinks, let a member of our dental team know. There are special precautions that can be taken for individuals with sensitive teeth.

I Have Sensitive Teeth. Can I Still Undergo Teeth Whitening Treatments?

For most people, tooth sensitivity is not a barrier to professional teeth whitening candidacy. If you have sensitive teeth, avoiding hot or cold food and drinks for a few days after undergoing teeth whitening can help you avoid unpleasant sensations while your teeth adjust.

There are special brands of toothpaste for individuals with sensitive teeth. These products can be used before and after your teeth whitening to reduce tooth sensitivity. Depending on which product you buy, the toothpaste will either cover up dentinal tubules or desensitize serve endings. Feel free to consult with a member of our Lake Mary dental team for their advice.

In-office or Take-home Whitening: Which Is Better for Sensitive Teeth?

If you have sensitive teeth, Dr. Hochfelder will advise you on which treatment option may be better for you. If you undergo teeth whitening at our office, you will be under the close supervision of a member of our dental team. If your teeth become too sensitive during the treatment, someone can intervene.

Take-home kits generally use a lower concentration of peroxide. If you have concerns about tooth sensitivity, you may benefit from spreading out your whitening treatments. For example, if your take-home kit recommends daily applications of the bleaching gel, you can use the trays every other day or every few days. You will still gain dramatic cosmetic benefits.

Brighten Your Smile with Professional Teeth Whitening

If yellow or discolored teeth leave you feeling insecure, a short visit to our office can totally revamp your smile using teeth whitening treatments. Tooth sensitivity is typically not a barrier to undergoing this safe and non-invasive cosmetic treatment.

Simply let a member of our dental team know that you experience periodic dental sensitivity, and that team member will provide you with advice on how to address tooth sensitivity. To schedule your next visit, please contact our office online or call (407) 321-8900.