Tooth Sensitivity After Whitening: Causes and Solutions

Teeth whitening has become very popular over the last several years for many reasons. Some may want a whiter smile because of tooth discoloration. Others may just want to boost their self-confidence.

For many, whitening products have been the answer. But if you’ve tried teeth whitening, you may have had temporary tooth sensitivity and even gingival (gum) inflammation. This is common and expected. Fortunately, there are some easy ways to manage the pain and sensitivity both during and after teeth whitening.

What causes sensitive teeth after whitening?

Tooth sensitivity after whitening is due to carbamide peroxide, hydrogen peroxide, and the nerve inflammation these peroxides can cause. These are the most common ingredients in teeth whitening products. They work by creating a chemical reaction with the chromogens on your teeth. Chromogens are the bacteria that form on your teeth and cause staining.

When the peroxides in whitening products come into contact with chromogens, they lighten your tooth shade. But sometimes exposure to these peroxides can cause inflammation of the pulp or nerve inside your tooth.

As a result, after teeth whitening, you may experience short periods of tooth pain or sensitivity with:

• Air

• Cold beverages or foods

• Sweet, sour, or acidic foods

• Brushing your teeth

6 tips to deal with tooth pain and sensitivity after whitening

The most common side effects after using teeth whitening products are temporary tooth pain and sensitivity. But there are some tips you can try that may help lower the likelihood of discomfort after teeth whitening. You may find sensitivity relief by following the six tips below.

1. Use a lower concentration of whitening product

In over-the-counter (OTC) whitening strips, hydrogen peroxide concentrations can vary from 5.3% to 6.5%. Your dental provider may use products with carbamide peroxide at much higher strengths. These products can have concentrations ranging from 10% to 45%. The higher the concentration used, the more sensitive your teeth can become.

2. Decrease the amount of whitening product in the tray

If using an at-home whitening tray, follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely. This is important regarding the amount of whitening gel to place in the tray. Only a small drop of gel should go in each area of the tray where there’s a tooth. 

EXPERT PICKS: WHAT TO READ NEXT

• Teeth whitening aftercare tips: Check out this list of the best foods to eat after teeth whitening to avoid long-lasting complications. 

• Is teeth whitening safe? Yes, learn more about the safest options for teeth whitening. 

• Foods that stain your teeth: Find out which foods tend to stain your teeth and how to enjoy them safely.

It’s important that you don’t overfill the tray. If excess gel overflows onto your gums, you’ve used too much. This may raise the likelihood of sensitivity. Remove the excess whitening gel with your toothbrush or cotton swab.

3. Increase the time between whitening treatments

You may choose to skip whitening days if gingival irritation or the sensitivity becomes too painful. It’s okay to skip days to allow your gums time to heal and tooth sensitivity to settle down. You’ll still get the same whitening results, but it may take more days to get there.

4. Take a break from whitening treatment until sensitivity lessens

If skipping days from whitening doesn’t give you the relief you need, you may need to take a break from whitening your teeth. You may need to wait a month or more before trying to whiten again.

5. Brush with sensitive toothpaste

Sensitive toothpastes contain an ingredient called potassium nitrate. This compound is effective in reducing tooth sensitivity caused by whitening. Potassium nitrate was shown to be effective when used twice a day before or during the teeth whitening process.

6. Use a desensitizing gel or fluoride varnish applied by your dental provider

Desensitizing gels and fluoride varnish can give you quick relief from the sensitivity caused by teeth whitening. Fluoride varnish contains high concentrations of sodium fluoride, up to 5%. It’s painted directly onto your teeth in a thin layer by your dental care provider. The relief is often fast and long-lasting — in some cases up to 8 weeks.

How long does tooth sensitivity last after teeth whitening?

Tooth sensitivity from teeth whitening should go away after the treatment is over. This will usually happen by the fourth day. If sensitivity continues, there could be an underlying dental issue.

Other factors that may influence sensitivity include:

• Teeth with decay

• Exposed dentin (the layer underneath enamel that protects the nerve of your tooth)

• Cracks in your teeth

• Defective or broken-down restorations (like fillings, crowns, veneers, or bridges)

It’s important to include your dental provider in your whitening journey. A complete exam of your teeth and existing restorations may help you avoid sensitivity caused by other factors. Your dentist can also help you narrow down which whitening products are best for you and take care of any dental needs before whitening your teeth.

How do you treat whitening burns?

Another common side effect of teeth whitening is gingival irritation, also known as whitening burns. You may notice your gums turn white or bright red while using whitening products. This mild to moderate burning sensation can begin within the first day of whitening and may last for several days.

But there are some things you can try to get relief from mild to moderate gingival irritation pain. These can include:

• Saltwater rinses

• Removal of excess whitening gel on your gums with a cotton swab

• Leaving the whitening product in place for only the recommended amount of time

• Giving your gums a break from whitening until pain is gone

Once you stop the whitening process, your gums will usually heal within a few days. If the pain persists, it’s best to see your dental provider. They may suggest other options to soothe and heal your gums.

What should you avoid after teeth whitening?

Now that you’ve whitened your teeth and have the brighter smile you desired, let’s talk about ways to keep them white.

Staining on the outer surface of your teeth that causes discoloration is known as extrinsic stains. Extrinsic staining is a result of environmental factors. These can include smoking and consuming dark-colored foods and beverages.

To prolong the whiteness of your teeth, try to avoid:

• Tobacco

• Dark fruits (like blueberries)

• Red wine

• Coffee

• Tea

• Dark colas

Frequently asked questions

Why trust our experts?

Written by:

Shari L. Grigsby-Young, DDS

Dr. Grigsby-Young is a general dentist who was born and raised in Dayton, Ohio. She completed her undergraduate studies at Xavier University of Louisiana.

Edited by:

Karla Robinson, MD

Karla Robinson, MD, is a medical editor for GoodRx. She is a licensed, board-certified family physician with almost 20 years of experience in health through varied clinical, administrative, and educational roles.

Our editorial standards

Meet our experts