Teeth Whitening for Sensitive Teeth in London
Worried about the "zing"? You don't have to suffer for a beautiful smile. Discover our Dentist-Led "Low & Slow" protocol designed specifically for sensitive teeth.
Can I Whiten if I Have Sensitive Teeth?
For millions of people, the desire for a white smile is outweighed by the fear of pain. If you suffer from dentin hypersensitivity, where cold water or sweet foods cause a sharp pain, you may believe that teeth whitening is impossible for you.
You might have heard horror stories of "electric shocks" during laser treatment or burning gums from shop-bought strips.
The truth is: You CAN whiten sensitive teeth. You just need the right method.
At Teeth Whitening London, our expert dentists are experienced in treating patients with delicate enamel. We reject the "no pain, no gain" mentality. Our goal is to get you to your perfect shade with minimal discomfort.
Understanding The Cause: Why Whitening Hurts
To avoid pain, we first need to understand the mechanism behind it.
1. The Dental Tubules
Underneath your hard enamel layer lies the dentin. The dentin is full of microscopic tubes (tubules) that lead directly to the tooth nerve. In sensitive teeth, these tubules are often more exposed.
2. Aggressive Peroxide Penetration
Standard whitening (especially Laser) may use high-concentration chemicals and heat to expose tubules in an attempt to accelerate the whitening process, which may increase the risk of sensitivity in some people. This rapid movement of fluid inside the tooth puts pressure on the nerve, causing that sudden "zing" or ache.
3. Gum Irritation
Pain often isn't from the tooth at all, it may be from the gums. Generic, non-custom trays can allow the strong bleaching gel to leak onto the soft gum tissue, causing chemical burns and long-lasting soreness.
The Solution: Our 3-Step "Low Sensitivity" Protocol
We have developed a specific treatment plan for patients who identify as sensitive. This differs significantly from the standard "fast" whitening approach.
Step 1: The Precision Seal (Custom Trays)
The most critical factor in preventing pain is control. We cannot control where the gel goes with a generic tray.
We take physical impressions of your teeth to manufacture laboratory-grade custom trays.
- The Benefit: These trays end exactly at the gum line. This ensures the whitening gel stays 100% on the tooth structure and 0% on your gums. This eliminates one of the main causes of whitening pain: soft tissue burns.
Step 2: Desensitizing Chemistry
We prescribe specialised gels that do more than just whiten. We utilise formulas containing Potassium Nitrate and Fluoride.
- Potassium Nitrate: This is an active ingredient in sensitivity toothpastes (like Sensodyne). It penetrates the tubules and calms the nerve endings during the whitening process.
- Fluoride: Helps to remineralise and strengthen the enamel, sealing the tubules against sensitivity.
Step 3: The "Low & Slow" Schedule
Laser whitening forces the change to happen in 60 minutes. This is a shock to the system.
Our home whitening puts you in the driver's seat.
- Lower Concentration: We can prescribe a 10% Carbamide Peroxide gel (equivalent to ~3% Hydrogen Peroxide). This is gentle and releases oxygen slowly over 4-6 hours.
- Alternate Days: You don't have to wear the trays every night. We often recommend a "Day On, Day Off" approach. This gives your teeth 24 hours to rehydrate and recover between sessions. It takes slightly longer to reach your ideal shade, but the journey is pain-free.
Why "Dentist-Led" Matters for Safety
It is important to understand that teeth whitening is the practice of dentistry.
When you buy a kit online, you are buying a product with no medical oversight. When you book with us, you are entering a clinical pathway.
- Pre-Treatment Exam: We check for leaking fillings, gum recession, or cavities. Whitening a tooth with an open cavity can be excruciatingly painful. We ensure your mouth is healthy before you start.
Comparison: Laser Whitening vs. Our Gentle Home Kit
| Feature | Laser / Zoom Whitening | Our Low-Sensitivity Home Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Pain Level | High Risk (Heat + Dehydration) | Low Risk (Hydrated + Gradual) |
| Control | None (You are stuck in the chair) | Total Control (Stop/Start as needed) |
| Chemicals | High % Hydrogen Peroxide | Carbamide Peroxide + Soothers |
| Gum Safety | Retractors used, but harsh light | Custom Trays protect gums completely |
| Best For... | Thick enamel, rapid results | Sensitive Teeth & Long-term results |
Ready for Pain-Free Whitening?
Book your gentle assessment today and discover our sensitive teeth protocol.
Book Your Gentle Assessment - £199Frequently Asked Questions (Sensitive Teeth)
Q: I have very sensitive teeth. Will this definitely work without pain?
A: While no medical procedure can guarantee 0% side effects for everyone, this is the most gentle method available. By using the lowest concentration gel and desensitizing toothpaste for two weeks prior to treatment, the vast majority of our sensitive patients complete the course with little to no discomfort.
Q: Can I use "Desensitizing Swabs"?
A: Yes. We can provide high-strength desensitizing serum. You can load this into your custom trays and wear it for 30 minutes before you apply the whitening gel. This prepares the teeth effectively.
Q: Will whitening make my teeth more sensitive forever?
A: No. Any sensitivity caused by whitening is transient (temporary). It usually subsides within 24-48 hours after stopping the treatment. It does not cause permanent nerve damage.
Q: Does whitening work on crowns, veneers, or fillings?
A: No, whitening gel only affects natural tooth enamel. If you have visible crowns or fillings, they will remain their original colour while your natural teeth get whiter. We recommend booking a consultation so we can plan how to match your dental work to your new brighter smile.
Q: Is there an age limit?
A: Legally in the UK, teeth whitening is restricted to those over 18. Younger patients often have larger nerve chambers in their teeth, making them significantly more sensitive to bleaching.
Q: What if I start the treatment and it hurts?
A: Because you are at home, you simply stop. Give your teeth a break for 2-3 days. You can continue the treatment at a slower pace. You have complete control, unlike a laser session where the procedure is performed all at once.
A White Smile Without the Tears
Book your gentle assessment today and start your pain-free whitening journey.
Book Your Gentle Assessment Today - £199