Custom teeth whitening trays are a popular and highly effective way to deliver whiter teeth. However, guests with sensitive teeth and gums may be concerned about the level of discomfort they may have when using take-home whitening trays. 

This article explores how custom trays work and explains how dentists customize trays for guests' specific needs and tolerance levels. We’ll also discuss the biggest factors that affect sensitivity, and go over some tips for minimizing discomfort. 

Understanding Tooth Sensitivity and Whitening

Custom teeth whitening trays are typically worn for 2-4 hours per day, or overnight. When used consistently, they can whiten teeth by at least 1-2 shades in just a few days, according to this study published in the National Library of Medicine. 

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

Enamel wear, gum recession, or exposed dentin can heighten the sensitivity to temperature changes and bleaching gels, which are used in teeth whitening trays. Existing dental conditions such as micro-cracks or untreated cavities can also exacerbate discomfort and may make it difficult to withstand powerful bleaching agents. 

How Whitening Gels Affect Sensitivity

Bleaching agents penetrate the tooth’s surface to break down stains and whiten teeth, which can sometimes irritate the dentin or nerve endings. The degree of irritation depends on the concentration of the gel being used, the amount of exposure time, and the overall oral health of the guest.

Why Custom Trays Can Be Beneficial for Sensitive Teeth

In-office teeth whitening typically uses powerful bleaching agents, which can be difficult for those with sensitive teeth. However, custom-fitted take-home trays can still provide the teeth whitening you’re looking for while minimizing discomfort.  Here are some ways in which custom trays can be beneficial for those with sensitive teeth: 

• Customized Fit: Dentist-made trays fit your teeth precisely. This helps reduce the amount of gel leakage onto your gums, which could cause discomfort. The tighter seals also ensure less air or saliva contact, which helps lower irritation. 
• Controlled Gel Concentration: During in-office treatments, dentists need to use high-powered bleaching gels to ensure you can get results in one session. However, when using take-home trays, dentists can prescribe milder formulas for those with sensitive teeth. Guests can also work with their dentist to gradually increase the concentration if they feel they can handle increased sensitivity.
• Shorter Wear Times: Custom whitening trays allow for flexible usage schedules —some patients only need 15–30 minutes daily to see results. While less exposure may mean more gradual results, it can also lessen the risk of discomfort or enamel damage.

Additional Ways to Manage Sensitivity During Whitening

While your dentist can work with you to use gels that are designed to minimize discomfort, there are also some other easy things you can do to manage your sensitivity during teeth whitening, such as using desensitizing oral health products, spacing out your whitening sessions, and avoiding hot or cold foods. 

Use Desensitizing Products

Over-the-counter desensitizing toothpaste or gels can prepare teeth before whitening and can reduce the risk of soreness during the whitening process. When using custom trays, you can add a specialized desensitizing gel into the trays for 5–10 minutes pre- or post-whitening. This can help temporarily block pores and allow teeth time to rehydrate. 

Space Out Your Whitening Sessions

You can also work with your dentist to develop a schedule that allows you to spread out the use of your whitening trays. Instead of daily use, you may be able to use it every other day, or, for fewer hours at a time. A reduced schedule allows those with sensitive teeth more time to recover between treatments, lowering overall discomfort. 

Use a Lower Gel Concentration at First

If you’re new to whitening, or you have known sensitivity issues, your dentist may recommend starting with a lower gel concentration and then gradually moving to a stronger formula if you’re comfortable. While this gentler approach may take longer to see noticeable results, it can help ensure you’re not putting too much pressure on sensitive areas. 

Avoid Extremely Hot or Cold Foods

Reducing or eliminating the consumption of extremely hot or cold foods and beverages can also reduce discomfort from sensitivity. Extreme temperatures from drinks like hot tea and coffee, or foods like ice cream can exacerbate sensitivity issues while using whitening trays.

When to Consult a Dentist About Sensitive Teeth

Tooth sensitivity during whitening can often be solved by small measures such as spacing out the whitening sessions or lowering the gel concentration. However, there are some instances where more serious treatment is needed, including: 

• Persistent or Severe Sensitivity: If discomfort or pain lingers long after a whitening session, you should contact your dentist. It could be an underlying issue such as micro-cracks or gum disease – which requires treatment before you can continue using whitening trays. 
• Potential Allergic Reactions: If you notice any swelling, redness, or blistering on your gums, it may indicate an allergic reaction to gel ingredients and you should contact your dentist as soon as possible. Your dentist can adjust the formula of the bleaching agents, or offer alternative teeth-whitening treatments. 
• Poor Tray Fit: While trays should be custom-fitted to your mouth, if you notice your tray no longer fits properly, you should stop using it and contact your dentist. Using a tray that’s improperly fitted could cause the whitening gels to leak into the gums, causing irritation and inflammation. 

Whitening Trays for Sensitive Teeth Available at Your Local Ideal Dental

Custom whitening trays are a safe, effective option for guests with sensitive teeth when used correctly. However, it’s important to communicate with your dentist to discuss tolerance and sensitivity issues you have, so they can use a milder bleaching agent and work with you about developing a wearing schedule that works for you.

If you’re interested in learning more about custom whitening trays, contact your local Ideal Dental today to set up an appointment.