Can teeth become sensitive with teeth whitening?

[Elle]

For a while I have been considering teeth whitening and perhaps a smile makeover to improve my smile. I have heard from a friend that teeth whitening can make teeth more sensitive. Is this true and if so how long does the sensitivity last?

[Dr Ehsan J. Esfahani]

Hello Elle,

All whitening gel causes some degree of tooth sensitivity. We recommend to either discontinue use for a few days and the sensitivity will usually dissipate within 24-48 hrs or use desensitising gels or toothpastes. Don’t be concerned as teeth whitening does not need to be done consecutively. You will get to the same whitening point, it will just take a little longer.