How Do I Whiten My Sensitive Teeth?

If your teeth hurt after a gulp of your cold brew or your molars tingle while you’re sipping your hot pumpkin spice latte, you might be among the 12% of adults who the American Dental Association (ADA) says have sensitive teeth. If you’re part of that group and you want to whiten your chompers after all those coffee drinks, choose your method carefully. That’s because bleaching agents, such as peroxide, can irritate the nerves in your teeth.

We asked Los Angeles-based dental hygienist Alyssa Matsuno Dessert, RDH, what whitening methods are best for teeth sensitivity. “I tend to go back and forth between recommending at-home whitening products and in-office professional whitening treatments. The degree in which they contribute to sensitivity varies, so I recommend trying them out and see[ing] what works for you,” she says. “Both options are considered safe, although pregnant and lactating persons should consult with their doctor before using any whitening products.”

While Dessert says that at-home methods — pens, trays, LED lights, and strips — are an affordable way to try a product and see how your teeth react, they do have their drawbacks. “These OTC remedies come with some concerns, mostly because they are not customized for you,” she says. “For example, in using a strip you might find that the bleaching agent will cover the gumline and pose a risk for irritation.” As for whitening toothpastes and rinses, Dessert says they deliver the least results, but also are the least likely to contribute to sensitivity. 

Professional treatments may be a better fit.”Your dentist will select the best method of whitening for you and modify their techniques to address sensitivity,” Dessert says. However, she cautions that it may be more intense than a DIY method (and of course, more expensive). “Since the treatments provided in-office are offered with a higher concentration of the bleaching agent, they could cause more sensitivity than those performed at home.” 

Lastly, Dessert offers this advice: “Don’t overdo it — whitening products can be damaging to the [everyone’s] teeth if used improperly or too often.”