How long does teeth pain from whitening last?

Author: Tatum Kessler  |  Last update: Friday, May 9, 2025

You may experience sensitive teeth after whitening for around 24-48 hours. Fortunately, sensitivity rarely lasts longer than this.

How long does tooth pain after whitening last?

For most patients, the sensitivity subsides within 24 to 48 hours after the teeth whitening procedure. However, in some cases, it may last up to a week. If you continue to experience sensitivity beyond a week, it's crucial to consult with your dentist.

How to stop teeth hurting after whitening?

Try a desensitizing toothpaste

If you have sensitivity before you start whitening, it is recommended to use a desensitizing toothpaste two weeks prior to your at-home whitening treatment, as well as continued use during and after whitening treatment.

How long do zingers from teeth whitening last?

These zingers may be felt in a single tooth or multiple teeth and should typically subside within 24-48 hours following the whitening procedure. Don't worry if you experience zingers, they're a normal part of the teeth-whitening process and will be gone before you know it!

How long does a teeth whitening burn last?

As long as you stop the bleaching treatment quickly, the good news is that gum irritation usually resolves on its own after a few days. Saltwater rinses will help relieve discomfort during recovery. If needed, over-the-counter pain relievers can dull the irritation or burning feeling.

How To Prevent Sensitive Teeth After Whitening

How long does it take for teeth to settle after whitening?

Tooth sensitivity and/or tooth pain – Some people may experience increased tooth sensitivity following the teeth whitening procedure, especially when eating or drinking things that are very hot or cold. Increased tooth sensitivity will usually subside after a few days.

Why do my teeth hurt so bad after whitening strips?

Teeth sensitivity happens because the tooth enamel becomes thinner and less protective after the whitening process. To reduce teeth sensitivity while using whitening strips, you must use a desensitizing toothpaste or mouthwash. You will also need to avoid acidic foods with high sugar content.

Why does teeth whitening hurt so much?

If you experience increased tooth sensitivity or gum irritation after these whitening methods, it might be because the products are overly abrasive or acidic, which wears away tooth enamel and irritates gums. 1 Meanwhile bleaching agents such as peroxide can irritate the nerves inside your teeth.

How to rehydrate teeth after whitening?

Saliva is the Best Hydration

While drinking plenty of water is always a good idea, it won't necessarily rehydrate your teeth. The best way to rehydrate your teeth is by ensuring your mouth stays moist. Your saliva contains the minerals your tooth enamel needs to resurface and restore itself after whitening.

What happens if I leave a teeth whitening strip on for too long?

You might be tempted to leave whitening strips on your teeth for a little longer, but this will increase the risk and severity of side effects like sensitivity and gum irritation. In some cases, overuse of whitening strips has even led to chemical burns on the gums.

What is the best pain reliever after teeth whitening?

Take pain medication – Taking over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen prior to your teeth whitening procedure can help minimize sensitivity and discomfort. You can continue taking this medication after your treatment to manage any lingering sensitivity.

How long after teeth whitening can I eat normally?

It should be safe to resume your regular diet 48 hours after teeth whitening. Limiting your diet may seem like a daunting task. But this temporary sacrifice can help you achieve a brighter and whiter smile.

Does ibuprofen help teeth sensitivity?

Over the counter painkillers: If your teeth are sensitive, toothaches may be alleviated with pain medication such as Ibuprofen, which will help numb the pain and reduce inflammation.

What are the sharp shooting pains after teeth whitening?

Defined as the temporary tooth sensitivity that can be triggered shortly after undergoing teeth whitening, zingers are those sharp shooting pains that extend outwards from your tooth to your gums. Because they often feel like quick “zaps” of pain, they've earned the nickname of zingers.

Do I brush my teeth after whitening strips?

Brushing too soon could potentially damage this delicate layer and lead to tooth sensitivity or even enamel erosion over time. To strike a balance between these perspectives, dentists often recommend waiting at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth after using whitening strips.

What helps teeth zingers?

To reduce the occurrence of zingers, patients can use a desensitizing toothpaste before and after the treatment. They can also avoid hot or cold drinks and food for a few days after the treatment. The good news is that this sensitivity does not last very long.

How long do teeth pores stay open after whitening?

Aftercare Post-48 Hours

Also, avoid acidic foods such as fermented items, vinegar, pickles, and citrus fruits. Although the pores should return to normal size after 48 hours, you can be cautious for a full week to make the most out of your teeth whitening treatment.

How long do teeth stay sensitive after whitening?

You may experience sensitive teeth after whitening for around 24-48 hours. Fortunately, sensitivity rarely lasts longer than this.

Do teeth become weak after whitening?

Teeth are thought to become more sensitive after whitening because the whitener weakens the teeth slightly, exposing “dentinal microtubules” that connect the outside of the tooth to the nerves inside.

Why do dentists not recommend teeth whitening?

If used over time and without the aid of a professional cosmetic dentist, this treatment could cause tooth sensitivity and at times pain. The worst part for these patients is that by affecting the enamel and causing teeth to become more sensitive overall, the teeth are then primed to become even more stained over time!

Why do my teeth look worse after whitening?

First of all, don't worry! The white, patchy, streaky, or lined look of teeth after whitening is normal – it's called enamel demineralization.

What is the least painful way to whiten teeth?

Custom teeth whitening trays

Custom-fit trays prevent the whitening solution from spilling, which avoids gums and tongue irritation. Like other procedures that can whiten your teeth, it is also non-invasive, making it a better option for those with sensitive teeth.

How to stop pain from teeth whitening?

At-Home remedies for post whitening discomfort
  1. Apply Cold Compresses.
  2. Use Pain Relievers.
  3. Warm Saltwater Rinse.
  4. Avoid Trigger Foods and Beverages.

How long do zingers last after teeth whitening?

Zingers are sudden, sharp zaps in a tooth that some people may experience after tooth whitening. They usually last for a few seconds at a time. These can occur during the whitening procedure and may last for a day or two after treatment.

How long does teeth sensitivity last?

Recent dental procedures: People can get sensitive teeth after fillings, teeth cleanings and dental restoration placement. Sensitivity caused by dental procedures is temporary and usually disappears in four to six weeks.

Previous article
How often should I comb hair after lice treatment?
Next article
Is it worth to spend money on massage?