Is it normal for crest white strips to hurt?

Author: Kaylin Metz V  |  Last update: Wednesday, December 10, 2025

As with any teeth whitening system that contains peroxide, teeth/gum sensitivity may temporarily develop when using Crest 3D White Whitestrips. Some people may experience tooth sensitivity or gum discomfort when using this or other whitening products.

Are crest white strips supposed to hurt?

Answer: All forms of whitening can cause transient teeth sensitivity and pain Crest white strips and all other forms of peroxide based teeth whitening will cause sensitivity in 20 percent of users.

Should I stop using whitening strips if my teeth hurt?

The irritation causes swelling of the tissue around the teeth, which causes discomfort and pain in some people. Stop using the whitening strips immediately if you experience any sensitivity or soreness after using them.

Is it normal for whitening strips to burn?

Hydrogen peroxide is one of the main ingredients in teeth whitening products, and it can often cause irritation or a burning sensation around the gums. While the amount of hydrogen peroxide included in teeth whitening products is safe to use, exposing your gums to this agent may lead to sensitivity or pain.

How do I make my teeth stop hurting from crest white strips?

Use fluoride rinses and/or sensitivity toothpaste.

These products can help protect sensitive teeth and alleviate the symptoms. Fluoride treatments are also sometimes recommended either before, during, or after you whiten your teeth.

How Teeth Whitening At The Dentist Works...And Is It Worth It? Orthodontist Reacts!

Should I stop teeth whitening if it hurts?

If you're experiencing tooth sensitivity while you're whitening your teeth at home, you should stop treatment and contact your dental professional.

How to soothe sore teeth from a retainer?

Ice-cream, frozen yoghurt, smoothies and chilled soups are your best friends when it comes to fighting temporary retainer pain. Saltwater gargle. A simple saltwater gargle is a natural antiseptic, helping heal any tiny cuts or scratches inside your mouth and providing effective temporary pain relief. Cold pack.

Do I brush after whitening strips?

While it may be tempting to brush immediately after using strips, it's best to wait for your enamel to recover before brushing gently with a sensitive toothpaste. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a radiant smile without compromising your dental health.

Is teeth whitening supposed to sting?

While teeth whitening is very safe and effective, it is common to experience sensitivity after your treatment. The good news is that this sensitivity is only temporary; however, it can still cause some discomfort for the first few days after your procedure.

Can I swallow my spit with crest white strips?

Yes, you can swallow your saliva while using whitening strips, as most bleaching agents in the strips are safe for oral use and ingestion in small amounts. But you do not need to swallow excessive amounts of saliva while using the strips.

What happens if you leave whitening strips on longer than 30 minutes?

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 are the sharp pains during 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.

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.

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 are the zingers in teeth whitening?

Zingers that arise during or after teeth whitening treatments result from the active ingredients used to remove surface stains. This particular solution (hydrogen peroxide) can remove minerals from the enamel, resulting in a temporary porosity of the teeth.

How long will my gums stay white after teeth whitening?

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.

Why do crest white strips hurt?

Tooth sensitivity after whitening is usually caused by irritation of your tooth's nerve (pulp) after being exposed to peroxide — a common ingredient in whitening products.

Should professional teeth whitening hurt?

Generally, teeth whitening does not hurt – though some people may experience sensitivity during or after treatment. This can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relief medications and by applying sensitive toothpaste to prevent any further discomfort.

How to relieve tooth pain from whitening strips?

Our Favorite Ways to Soothe Teeth Sensitivity After Whitening
  1. Avoid Hot and Cold Drinks. ...
  2. Apply a Cold Compress. ...
  3. Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush. ...
  4. Don't Brush Too Hard. ...
  5. Try a Sensitivity Gel or request a Fluoride Varnish. ...
  6. Avoid Acidic Foods and Beverages. ...
  7. Apply Coconut Oil.

Why are my teeth more yellow after whitening strips?

Whitening strips often contain peroxide-based chemicals to eliminate enamel stains, which may lead to temporary irritation and redness of the gums. This redness creates a visual contrast that can make the teeth seem more yellow.

How long after whitening strips can I eat?

When can I eat after teeth whitening? It is generally advisable to wait at least one hour after teeth whitening before consuming any food. However, avoiding staining or triggering foods for the first 1-3 days is recommended.

Why not brush teeth before whitening?

Risk of Gum Irritation: If you brush too vigorously before applying the strips, you might irritate your gums. When the whitening gel comes into contact with irritated gums, it can cause discomfort or a burning sensation.

Should I wear my retainer if it hurts my teeth?

Try Wearing It Gradually

If the retainer feels tight or painful, start by wearing it for short periods (e.g., a few hours at a time). Gradually increase the time you wear it to allow your teeth and retainer to adjust without too much discomfort.

Do retainers cause gum recession?

Wearing retainers is not likely to cause gum recession directly. However, if retainers are not correctly fitted or maintained, they can contribute to gum recession indirectly. For example, if a retainer is too tight or applies too much pressure to the teeth and gums, this can cause irritation and inflammation.

How to get a permanent retainer?

Orthodontists usually install permanent retainers immediately after they remove a person's braces. A permanent retainer can last up to 20 years, depending on how carefully a person cares for it.

Previous article
Can you wear an Apple Watch in the sauna?
Next article
How to get a small breast?