Why Teeth Whitening Products Hurts?

Drinking coffee, tea, red wines as well as cigarette smoking are some of the reason for the discoloration and staining of the teeth. Some people are not happy and embarrassed with the discoloration that is why they wanted to try different ways to whiten their teeth. It can be done either with the help of oral health care professional or do-it-yourself method by using whitening products that are widely available in the market.

When using teeth whitening some people feels that it hurts their teeth. It is because of the main active ingredient of these products called hydrogen peroxide. Inside the tooth, there are millions of tiny tubules called dentinal tubules. These tiny tubes have fluids inside and the movements of the fluids can cause teeth sensitivity. In normal situation, the minerals of the saliva prevent the movement of the fluids by plugging the opening of the outer tubes. By using bleaching agents such as the hydrogen peroxide, these plugs are being dissolved.  The dissolved plugs allow the movement of the fluids inside the tiny tubes thus causing teeth sensitivity.

Although hydrogen peroxide is considered safe to use, it is important to know the percentage concentration found in the whitening products. The ideal solution of this is 3% and solution with more than 10% should not be used for the teeth.  Anything excess is bad and this also applies to hydrogen peroxide.  Excessive and over use can cause damage to the mouth tissues as well as the enamel found in the teeth.  Ideally, daily usage should only be limited to a couple of weeks.

There are also some common side effects associated with hydrogen peroxide such as gum and mouth irritation. It can also cause severe pain if it reaches the nerve of your tooth especially if that tooth is already decaying. That is why it is highly recommended that before undergoing any procedure for whitening of the teeth, it is important to have your teeth checked by the dentist during the last 3 months.

The sensitivity of the teeth varies from the kind of methods used as well as from person to person. Some people experience little discomfort or pain and some none at all.  Some teeth whitening products also hurts the teeth because of the percentage of the peroxide present.  So make sure that what you are using is appropriate for you whether it is from the drugstores or from the dentist.