How to Whiten Sensitive Teeth Safely: Tips from Rectory House

Do you dream of a brighter smile but worry about tooth sensitivity? You’re not alone. Many people with sensitive teeth are hesitant to try whitening treatments – but with the right approach, you can safely achieve a whiter smile without the discomfort.

At Rectory House Dental Practice, we help patients whiten their teeth comfortably and effectively. Here are some of our expert tips to reduce sensitivity during teeth whitening:

1. Speak to Your Dentist First 

If you’ve experienced sensitivity from whitening in the past – or if you know your teeth are naturally sensitive – it’s best to consult with your dentist before starting any treatment. At our practice, we’ll assess your oral health and recommend the safest, most effective whitening method for your smile.

2. Start with a Sensitive Toothpaste

Before beginning any whitening treatment, use a desensitising toothpaste for at least one week (ideally two). These toothpastes help by blocking nerve signals in your teeth, making the whitening process much more comfortable. Keep using it during and after treatment for ongoing protection.

3. Choose a Lower Strength Whitening Gel

Not all whitening gels are created equal. If you’re prone to sensitivity, ask about options with a lower concentration of whitening agent. These still deliver noticeable results, but more gradually – and with far less irritation.

4. Keep Treatments Short

Long whitening sessions can increase sensitivity. Instead of leaving the whitening gel on for an hour, try cutting it down to 30 minutes. For some people, even 10-15 minutes at a time is enough – especially when repeated over several days.

5. Take Breaks Between Sessions

If you’re whitening at home, don’t be afraid to take breaks. Whitening every day can be too much for sensitive teeth. Instead, try every other day or take a couple of days off if you notice discomfort.

6. Watch What You Drink

Hot and cold drinks can intensify sensitivity during whitening treatment. To minimise discomfort, stick to drinks at room temperature – and skip anything acidic, like citrus juices or fizzy drinks, which can irritate teeth even more.

7. Always Follow Instructions

Whitening products may be safe, but only when used as directed. Overusing them or leaving them on for too long can increase sensitivity. Read and follow instructions carefully, or ask your dentist for personalised advice.

Bonus Tip: Night-Time Relief

If you do experience sensitivity during your treatment, stop using the whitening product for 2–3 days to allow your teeth to recover. You can also apply desensitising toothpaste inside your whitening tray and wear it overnight for soothing relief.

Your Smile, Our Priority

At Rectory House dental practice, we’re committed to helping you feel confident in your smile – comfortably. Our friendly and experienced team uses the latest whitening techniques and technology to ensure a safe, effective, and pain-free experience.

Ready to brighten your smile? Book a consultation with us today and let’s create a plan that works for you.