Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental treatment many people opt for to enhance their smile. While it can lead to a brighter, whiter appearance, some individuals may notice that their teeth feel rough after the procedure. This sensation can be uncomfortable or worrying, but it’s typically temporary. This article will explore why teeth feel rough after whitening, how long the sensation lasts, how to soothe your teeth, and whether you should be concerned. We’ll also share tips to keep your teeth smooth after whitening.
What causes the rough texture on your teeth after whitening?
After a teeth whitening procedure, it’s common to feel a rough texture on your teeth. Several factors contribute to this sensation:
- Dehydration of the enamel: During the whitening process, the whitening gel or peroxide treatment penetrates the enamel to remove stains. This process temporarily dehydrates the enamel, leaving it feeling rough.
- Porosity changes: After whitening, the enamel can become more porous. These microscopic openings or pits in the enamel may make your teeth feel rougher. The sensation will usually improve as your teeth rehydrate and recover.
- Surface unevenness: The whitening gel may remove superficial stains, but it can also make tiny imperfections in your enamel more noticeable. While your teeth are whiter, the surface might feel less smooth due to these microscopic changes.
- Temperature sensitivity: If your teeth are sensitive to hot or cold after whitening, the rough feeling might be exacerbated. The sensitivity usually subsides within a few days or weeks.
How long will your teeth feel rough after a whitening session?
The rough sensation after whitening is usually short-lived. Here’s a general timeline for how long it might last:
| Time after whitening | Expected sensation |
| First 24-48 hours | Teeth may feel rough or sensitive, especially to temperature. |
| 3-7 days | The rough texture should start to smooth out as the enamel rehydrates. |
| 1-2 weeks | Any roughness should be significantly reduced or gone completely. |
How can you soothe your teeth if they feel rough after whitening?
If your teeth feel rough after a whitening treatment, there are a few ways you can soothe them:
- Hydrate your teeth: Drink plenty of water to help rehydrate your enamel. You can also try rinsing with a fluoride mouthwash, which helps strengthen the enamel and promotes healing.
- Avoid acidic foods and drinks: Foods and drinks like citrus fruits, coffee, or soda can irritate your teeth further. Stick to water and mild foods to reduce discomfort.
- Use a desensitising toothpaste: There are specific toothpastes designed for sensitive teeth. These can help reduce discomfort and make your teeth feel smoother.
- Avoid extreme temperatures: Until your teeth return to normal, avoid very hot or cold foods and beverages, as they can aggravate sensitivity.
- Gentle brushing: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid brushing too hard, as this can further irritate your teeth.
If you experience dry mouth after a whitening treatment, it’s important to understand the connection between dry mouth and oral health, as it can affect your teeth and gums over time.
Should you be concerned if your teeth feel rough after a whitening procedure?
In most cases, the rough sensation after teeth whitening is not a cause for concern. It’s a common side effect of the treatment that usually resolves itself as the enamel recovers. If you experience dry mouth after a whitening treatment, it’s important to understand the connection between dry mouth and oral health, as it can affect your teeth and gums over time. However, if the roughness persists beyond a couple of weeks or if you experience ongoing pain or sensitivity, it’s important to consult with your dentist. Possible reasons for prolonged discomfort could include:
- Enamel damage: If your enamel was weakened prior to the whitening procedure, it may have become more porous or damaged during the treatment. A dentist can help assess the condition of your enamel.
- Incorrect whitening products: Sometimes, over-the-counter whitening treatments or poorly applied whitening treatments can cause more harm than good. A professional evaluation can determine if the products you’ve used are suitable for your teeth.
- Underlying dental issues: If you have untreated cavities or other dental problems, the whitening process could exacerbate them, causing additional sensitivity or roughness. Your dentist can address these issues before you undergo further whitening.
If discomfort or pain persists after whitening, it’s important to understand when to worry about tooth sensitivity and seek advice from your dentist.
What can you do to keep your teeth smooth after a whitening treatment?
To maintain a smooth, shiny finish after a teeth whitening procedure, here are a few things you can do:
- Practice good oral hygiene: Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. This helps prevent plaque build-up and keeps your enamel strong.
- Home remedies: If you’re looking for natural ways to maintain your bright smile, exploring the best home remedies for whiter teeth can be a helpful addition to your routine.
- Regular dental check-ups: Schedule regular visits to your dentist for professional cleanings and check-ups. A dentist can monitor your enamel and ensure your teeth stay in great condition after whitening.
- Limit staining foods and drinks: Certain foods and beverages can stain your teeth. If you’ve had a whitening treatment, try to limit them and rinse your mouth with water after consuming them.
- Use a straw: If you consume staining drinks, using a straw can help reduce the contact these liquids have with your teeth.
- Use a whitening touch-up product: For those who want to maintain a bright smile, professional whitening touch-ups can help. Your dentist can recommend safe and effective products to use at home. Additionally, if you’re after long-lasting results and a smoother finish, getting professional teeth whitening ensures that your teeth are treated safely and effectively.
Marsfield Dental Care: Your partner in teeth whitening
If you’re considering teeth whitening or experiencing roughness after a session, Marsfield Dental Care in Sydney can help. As a family-owned dental clinic, we understand the importance of personalised care and provide a range of treatments to suit your needs. Our multilingual staff can assist you in English, Hokkien, Cantonese, Mandarin, Malay, and French, making your experience comfortable no matter your language preference.
Our clinic prides itself on offering professional teeth whitening services using the latest techniques and technology, including 3D-printed veneers and restorations. Patients appreciate our thoughtful approach, with one highlighting how our staff takes the time to carefully explain procedures, which helps to alleviate any anxiety. Our team is dedicated to providing gentle and professional care, ensuring you feel comfortable throughout your visit. With friendly staff and a clean, relaxing clinic environment, we strive to make every visit a positive experience.
We offer convenient access via public transport and on-site parking, ensuring your visit is hassle-free. Plus, our positive reviews showcase the trust and satisfaction of our patients, further reinforcing our commitment to excellent care.
If you’re ready to brighten your smile and experience quality dental care, contact Marsfield Dental Care today. Let us help you maintain a smooth, healthy smile after your whitening treatment.