How to Whiten Sensitive Teeth

Teeth whitening or bleaching is a common cosmetic procedure. Whether one's teeth are discolored from drinking coffee or tobacco, teeth whitening can bring back some of that sparkle. For people with sensitive teeth, whitening procedures can be uncomfortable and even painful. Luckily, there are ways to whiten one's teeth in a gentle manner, allowing those who suffer from sensitive teeth to achieve that sought after shine.

Instructions

• 1

  Visit a dentist's office to receive chair-side bleaching. At a dentist office, a dental hygienist will apply a protective gel or rubber shield to your gums as well as a whitening solution. While the solution will most likely contain hydrogen peroxide, as most other whitening compounds do, the hygienist can use a lower concentration if you suffer from sensitive teeth.

• 2

  Collaborate with your dentist, and do a supervised treatment. This method allows you to apply a solution to your teeth at home, using a gel that contains carbamide peroxide, the equivalent of roughly 3 percent concentration of hydrogen peroxide.

• 3

  Use either whitening strips, gels or a special toothpaste. There are multiple products available at drugstores that cater to people who wish to whiten their teeth but suffer from sensitivity. Many of these products are not required to be applied for as long as regular treatments are, thereby reducing the amount of bleach and the length of irritation.