Can whitening treatments cause sensitivity?

The ingredients in the products used for whitening are usually hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. As the whitening agent breaks down, oxygen gets into the enamel on the teeth and the tooth colour is made lighter.

A widely recognised side effect of such treatment is tooth sensitivity. There is no exact science to predicting if you will experience sensitivity, but reports suggest that it will be experienced in up to 80% of patients using bleaching. Ensure you discuss this with your dentist prior to treatment.

Ask your dental professional about using Sensodyne before, during and after a teeth whitening program.