A New Way to Reduce Sensitivity During Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures, offering a brighter, more confident smile. However, one common downside of whitening treatments is tooth sensitivity, which can cause discomfort for many patients. At our practice, we’re always looking for ways to improve patient comfort and satisfaction. That’s why we’re excited to introduce a new method that significantly reduces sensitivity during and after whitening procedures.
A recent study in the Journal of The American Dental Association, "Preemptive use of ibuprofen and desensitizer decreases immediate tooth sensitivity after in-office bleaching," by Nathalia Larissa Bezerra Lima, DDS, MSc et. al, has demonstrated that a combination of ibuprofen (IBU) and potassium fluoride (KF2) can provide superior relief from tooth sensitivity associated with whitening treatments. This triple-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial included 15 patients and assessed the effects of preemptively taking 400 mg of ibuprofen and using a 2% potassium fluoride desensitizing agent. The study compared four groups:
IBU + KF2 (both ibuprofen and potassium fluoride used)
IBU alone (ibuprofen with a placebo fluoride agent)
KF2 alone (potassium fluoride with a placebo ibuprofen)
Placebo (neither ibuprofen nor potassium fluoride used)
The results were clear: patients who received both ibuprofen and potassium fluoride experienced significantly less sensitivity immediately after whitening. In fact, the risk of moderate to severe sensitivity was four times higher in the placebo group than in the IBU + KF2 group. This means that by taking a simple preemptive step, patients can enjoy a much more comfortable whitening experience.
At our practice, we are now offering this innovative approach to minimize post-whitening sensitivity. By combining 400 mg of ibuprofen with a specialized potassium fluoride treatment, we can help ensure that your whitening experience is as comfortable as possible. If you’ve hesitated to try whitening due to concerns about sensitivity, this breakthrough could be the solution you’ve been waiting for!
Interested in learning more or scheduling a whitening appointment? Contact us today to experience a brighter smile with less discomfort!